1911-1912 Oldsmobile Advertising Campaign

For the 1911-1912 Oldsmobile Advertising Campaign, the prestigious Oldsmobile Limited returned for a final season in 1912 with a substantial upgrade—a 140-inch wheelbase, surpassing even its 1911 extension. Despite the Limited's status as a premium model, Oldsmobile’s management recognized that its future lay in more affordable vehicles. Alongside the Limited, Oldsmobile’s lineup included the Defender, a new four-cylinder car introduced as a smaller and more budget-friendly option, replacing the entry-level Special. The Autocrat, another flagship four-cylinder model introduced in 1911, also remained in production, leading Oldsmobile’s shift toward mass-market appeal.

This strategy hinted at Oldsmobile’s transition from ultra-luxury to producing accessible, well-built vehicles, a move aimed at securing a larger market segment as consumer demand shifted away from exclusive, high-end automobiles.

Oldsmobile Autocrat Ad (November–December, 1911): Going Down Fifth Avenue – Illustrated by George Gibbs

Oldsmobile Autocrat Ad (September, 1911): The "Autocrat" — A Superb Car Perfected

Oldsmobile Defender Five-Passenger Touring Ad (January, 1912): Announcing the 'Defender' – Illustrated by George Gibbs

Oldsmobile Autocrat Touring Roadster and Tourabout Ad (March, 1912): 'Autocrats' of the Road

Oldsmobile Defender Five-Passenger Touring Ad (April–May, 1912): The 'Defender' is Established – Illustrated by George Gibbs