1927-1939. Single-sided tin (SST). Embossed. Asbestonos was a brand of automotive friction products, primarily brake linings and clutch facings, manufactured by the Asbestonos Corporation Limited (founded in 1920 in St. Laurent, Quebec). Their products were high-heat-resistant automotive components that could withstand the high temperatures of friction. The "Brake & Clutch Service By Expert Mechanics" slogan was first used in 1927-1928, which coincided with the industry shift from woven brake linings to more durable moulded linings. This embossed sign was no longer being used as of 1939, the beginning of WWII, when all metal was redirected to the war effort. From the Pat and Late Geoff Hopps Collection. Authenticated by The Authentication Company (TAC #501597). All items are guaranteed authentic by Miller & Miller Auctions. All purchases are eligible for free delivery to the Check the Oil Show on June 26, 2026. 13.75" x 19.5".
Size
13.75" x 19.5".
Condition
Grade: 8.75. Very good colour and gloss. Edge and field nicks, oxidation, scuffs, and scratches. Impressions and minor paint loss.
Medium
GSW was a Canadian company established in October, 1927 as a result of a merger of five Canadian tinware and stove manufacturing companies. The newly formed company was headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. GSW produced various houseware items such as wash tubs, oil stoves, cream cans, lanterns, metal lunch boxes along with a variety of appliances. By the early 1930s, the company expanded to make any type of products their manufacturing plants could handle, a move that would include the production of porcelain signs. Their porcelain signs were of superior quality in design and materials, making GSW a strong leader in the porcelain sign market during the era. In 1969, GSW began closing a number of its manufacturing plants and eliminated many of their products, including their porcelain sign division. The company was sold, in 2006, to A.O. Smith Company (one of the largest water heating equipment makers in the world).
Provenance
From the Pat and Late Geoff Hopps Collection.

































