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ingvarg85034789
Participant
August 27, 2022
Question

antique cars property release

  • August 27, 2022
  • 1 reply
  • 279 views

I think I read somewhere that you don't need property releases for antique cars (brands showing) built before a certain year. I can't find that reference. Can someone enlighten me?

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1 reply

Nancy OShea
Community Expert
Community Expert
August 27, 2022

You may not need a property release from Ford for an old Model-T but the current car owner will need to sign one, especially if the old vehicle has been restored or customized (most have been).  To protect yourself from possible litigation "test cases," it's best to obtain a signed property release whenever possible.  When in doubt, consult an attorney who is experienced in IP law. 

 

LEGAL BACKGROUND:

In the US, Design Patents are protected for 15 years. Patents that were filed pre-2015 were protected for 14 years.  Utility Patents are protected for 20 years if the patent- holder pays the annual maintenance fees.  After a patent reaches its expiration date, it cannot be renewed

https://patentrebel.com/how-long-are-patents-good-for-us/

 

Trademarks last 10 years, after which they can be renewed in 10 year increments.

 

Copyrights last the life of the author plus 70 years.

 

Hope that helps.

 

 

 

 

Nancy O'Shea— Product User & Community Expert
ingvarg85034789
Participant
August 28, 2022

Thank you. That was very useful. My thought were to make video clips of parts of the car. See sample clip screenshot. But I do see your point.

 

Nancy OShea
Community Expert
Community Expert
August 28, 2022

You can't use the Ford trademark though. As you can see from this list, Ford maintains active trademarks on its brands & models.

https://www.gerbenlaw.com/trademarks/cars/ford/

 

The front grill is probably OK if you use the patch tool or spot healing brush in Photoshop to remove the Ford emblem.

 

Nancy O'Shea— Product User & Community Expert