Logo Škoda is one of the most recognizable automotive symbols in the world, but its modern appearance is very different from the first versions. Old emblem with a “winged arrow” (Czech. okřídlený šíp) did not just decorate the hoods of the legendary Felicia, Favorit or Octavia 90s - it carried a deep historical meaning. Today, original old-style logos have become a rarity, and retro car owners and collectors are actively looking for their replicas.
In this article we will look at how the logo design changed Škoda since 1895, what the elements of the old emblem mean, where it can be found today and how to distinguish the original from the fake. And also why some models (for example, Yeti first generation) are still associated with the “classic” arrow, despite the rebranding of 2011.
The evolution of the Škoda logo: from Laurin & Klement to modern times
The company's first logo appeared long before the familiar “winged arrow”. In 1895 the founders Laurin & Klement (predecessor Škoda) used a monogram L&K in an oval frame. This sign adorned the brand's bicycles, motorcycles and first cars. Only in 1925, after a merger with an industrial giant Škoda Plzeň, the company received a new name - and a new symbol.
Here are the key stages of evolution:
- 📜 1926 - the debut of the “winged arrow”, inspired by an Indian headdress (according to legend, company founder Emil Skoda saw it at an exhibition in the USA). The arrow symbolized speed and progress.
- 🎨 1933 — adding red color and a three-dimensional effect. The logo became voluminous, with shadows, which gave it dynamics.
- 🔄 1990–1999 — simplification of the design: shadows were removed, the arrow became flat, but retained the wings. This version is associated with models Favorit, Felicia and Octavia first generation.
- 💎 2011 — radical rebranding: the arrow lost its wings and became minimalistic. The new logo caused controversy among fans of the brand.
I wonder what the original 1926 "winged arrow" had 5 feathers, not 3 as in later versions. This is due to the coat of arms of the city of Pilsen, where the headquarters were located Škoda. Today, such emblems are a real rarity, and their value at auctions reaches several thousand euros.
- Classic "winged arrow" (until 2011)
- Modern minimalistic (after 2011)
- Monogram L&K (1895–1925)
- Green logo from the 70s and 80s
- I don't care
Hidden symbols: what does the old Škoda logo mean?
At first glance, the “winged arrow” is simply a stylized element. But each of its components had a specific meaning:
| Logo element | Symbolism | Period of use |
|---|---|---|
| Wings | Speed, freedom, global brand ambitions | 1926–2011 |
| Arrow | Progress, forward movement, precision (reference to the production of weapons at the beginning of the 20th century) | 1926–present time |
| Round shield | Protection, reliability (inspired by knightly coats of arms) | 1926–1999 |
| Green color | Environmental friendliness (in the 70s–80s), connection with the nature of the Czech Republic | 1970–1990 |
| Black and red color scheme | Energy (red) and elegance (black) | 1990–2011 |
Fun fact: in the 1990s Škoda temporarily used the logo with green arrow on a white background - this design is considered one of the most unsuccessful in the history of the brand. It was quickly replaced with the classic black and red version, which lasted until 2011.
⚠️ Attention: On some retro models (for example, Škoda 1203 or 742) there are emblems with blue arrow. This is not an official logo, but the result of artisanal tuning or local modifications for individual markets (for example, in the GDR).
Where can you see the old Škoda logo today?
Despite the rebranding, the "winged arrow" is still found in several places:
- 🚗 Vintage cars: All models produced before 2011, including Octavia Tour, Superb I and Roomster. Emblems on Felicia Fun and Favorit — they are often restored during restoration.
- 🏛️ Museums: In the Museum Škoda in Mladá Boleslav (Czech Republic) all versions of the logo are presented, including prototypes from the 1920s. The emblems are also exhibited at the Museum of Technology in Prague.
- 🎭 Films and TV series: Old logos can be seen in films set in the 90s and early 2000s. For example, in the Czech comedy "I served the English king"(2006) or the German TV series "Tatort».
- 🛒 Souvenir products: Czech shops (eg Škoda Original Accessories) sell key holders, badges and T-shirts with a retro logo. But be careful - many souvenirs are made without a license.
If you are the owner Škoda before 2011, check the condition of the emblem: over time, the paint fades and the plastic becomes brittle. Original spare parts can still be found at official dealers (items begin with 3U0 853 701 for the front logo), but their price is 2–3 times higher than the replicas.
Before purchasing a retro badge on the secondary market, check its magnetic properties: original badges before the 1990s were often made of metal rather than plastic.
How to distinguish the original old logo from a fake
Market of retro spare parts for Škoda is flooded with fakes, especially for emblems from the 90s. Here are the key features of the original:
Mounting on the reverse side is a metal plate with two holes (counterfeits often have a plastic holder)
"ŠKODA AUTO" lettering is engraved and not painted
The paint does not wear off when rubbed with alcohol (replicas often use cheap enamel)
There is a manufacturer's stamp on the reverse side (for example, "HELLA" or "Valeo")
The arrow color is deep red (#C41E3A), not orange or pink-->
Emblems for Octavia I and Fabia I. Fraudsters use cheap plastic, which turns yellow after 1–2 years. The original badges were made of ABS plastic with UV protection, so even after 20 years they do not lose color.
If you buy a logo on Avito or eBay, ask the seller for a photo of the mount and a certificate (if available). The average price of an original emblem from the 90s is 1,500–3,000 rubles, replicas cost 300–800 rubles. Be careful with “bargain” offers: fakes are often sold at the price of the original.
⚠️ Attention: On some fake emblems, the arrow is offset to the left or right relative to the center of the shield. This is the result of poor quality casting. In the original, all elements are strictly symmetrical.
Is it possible to install the old logo on a new Škoda?
Technically yes, but there are nuances. Modern models (for example, Kodiaq or Enyaq) have a different form of mounting the emblem, so modifications will be required:
- 🔧 Mounting adaptation: On new cars, the logo is attached to double-sided tape or clips, while old emblems require holes in the hood. You will have to drill or use adapter plates.
- 🎨 Color selection: The classic black and red color scheme may be dissonant with modern body colors (for example,
Crystal BlueorRace Blue). Designers recommend painting the emblem shield in the color of the car. - ⚖️ Legal risks: In some countries (for example, Germany), unauthorized replacement of the logo may be considered a change to the factory equipment, which will affect the technical inspection.
If you still decide on such tuning, contact a studio specializing in retro modifications. For example, a Czech company Škoda Classic offers services for adapting old emblems to new models, including 3D printing of adapters.
Which Škoda models look best with the old logo?
According to a survey among owners, the retro emblem harmonizes best with:
1. Škoda Karoq (2017–present) - thanks to the angular shapes of the body.
2. Škoda Scala — minimalistic design emphasizes the contrast with the classic arrow.
3. Škoda Superb III in a liftback body, the emblem on the radiator grill looks especially stylish.
The worst combination comes from Citigo and Kamiq because of their "toy" proportions.
Where to buy the original old Škoda logo
If you are looking for an authentic emblem, here are trusted sources:
| Source | Pros | Cons | Average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Škoda dealers | Guaranteed authenticity, possibility of verification by VIN | Limited range (pre-2010 models only) | 2000–4500 ₽ |
| Czech showdown (Bazos.cz, AutoEsa.cz) | Large selection, original spare parts with warranty | Expensive delivery, risk of fraud | 1200–3000 ₽ |
| Auctions (eBay, Mobile.de) | Rare items (for example, logos from the 30s–50s) | High risk of counterfeit, long wait | 3000–15 000 ₽ |
| Russian owners clubs (Skoda-Club.ru) | Verified sellers, possibility of inspection before purchase | Limited geographically (mainly Moscow, St. Petersburg) | 1500–2500 ₽ |
When purchasing from private sellers, always ask for a photo of the spare part passport (if available) or certificate. For example, on the emblems for Škoda 120 or 105 there must be a stamp from the plant in Mlada Boleslav with the batch code.
The most popular retro emblems - from models Favorit (1987–1995) and Felicia (1994–2001). They are easiest to find at disassembly sites, but the most counterfeits are for these cars.
Restoring the old Škoda logo: step-by-step instructions
If your emblem is worn out but still intact, you can restore it yourself. You will need:
- 🧴 Acetone or alcohol for degreasing;
- 🎨 Automotive enamel (colors:
Škoda Red #C41E3A,Black #000000); - 🖌️ Brush No. 2 or airbrush;
- 🧲 Sandpaper (grit 1000–1500);
- 🔍 Magnifying glass for checking parts.
Restoration process:
- Remove the emblem from the car by carefully prying it off with a plastic spatula (do not use metal tools!).
- Wash it in warm water and soap, then degrease with acetone.
- Clean the abrasions with sandpaper, moving in the direction of the “feathers” of the arrow.
- Apply 1-2 coats of primer and let dry for 12 hours.
- Paint with enamel using a stencil (you can print the original logo on film).
- Coat with varnish to protect against UV rays.
If the arrow breaks off, it can be glued with superglue Loctite 401 (it can withstand temperatures from -50°C to +120°C). For reliability, the gluing area can be reinforced with epoxy resin on the reverse side.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use regular acrylic paints for painting - they are not resistant to temperature changes and will begin to crack after 1-2 years. Only automotive enamels based on polyurethanes!
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the old Škoda logo
Why did Škoda abandon the winged arrow in 2011?
The official reason is the desire for minimalism and unification with the design of the concern Volkswagen Group. Unofficially, they say that the new logo was supposed to symbolize the “growing up” of the brand and the rejection of the image of a “budget brand.” However, many fans believe that the old logo better reflected the story Škoda.
Is it possible to order a custom emblem with the old logo for a new car?
Yes, some companies (for example, Badges4U in the UK or Emblemart in the Czech Republic) produce custom badges according to your design. Cost - from 5000 rubles, production time - 2-4 weeks. Please note that a certificate of conformity may be required for legal installation.
What is the rarest version of the old Škoda logo?
Emblem with golden arrow on a black background, which was installed on a limited edition Škoda Superb 60 years (2005). Only 60 of these cars were produced, and today the original logo is estimated at 10,000–15,000 euros.
How to properly store retro Škoda emblems when not in use?
Optimal conditions:
- Temperature: +10°C to +20°C;
- Humidity: not higher than 50%;
- Store in a vacuum bag or box with silica gel;
- Avoid direct sunlight (the paint will fade even in the shade).
For long-term storage, emblems can be coated with preservative oil (for example, WD-40 Specialist Corrosion Inhibitor).
Why is the logo not centered on the bonnet on some older Škodas?
This is a feature of models from the 70s and 80s (for example, Škoda 120 or 105). Then the emblem was attached to the radiator grille, which was shifted to the left relative to the axis of the car. On later cars (after 1990), the logo was always located strictly in the center.