Member-only story

Dancing Dolphin Patterns: A Comprehensive Guide to the Defenders Patterns of 1972-1986

Roland Hayes

·14.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Defenders (1972 1986) #1 Dancing Dolphin Patterns

5 min read

1.1k View Claps

62 Respond

Save

Listen

The Land Rover Defender is a legendary 4x4 that has been in production for over 70 years. Over the years, the Defender has been used by everyone from farmers and explorers to the British military and police. One of the most distinctive features of the Defender is its optional Dancing Dolphin pattern, which was first introduced in 1972.

Defenders (1972-1986) #1

by Dancing Dolphin Patterns

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	85972 KB
Print length	:	21 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The History of the Dancing Dolphin Pattern

The Dancing Dolphin pattern was designed by Land Rover engineer Roger Crathorne. Crathorne was inspired by the dolphins he saw while sailing off the coast of Cornwall. He wanted to create a pattern that would be both distinctive and functional, and he believed that the Dancing Dolphin pattern would meet both of those criteria.

The Dancing Dolphin pattern was first introduced on the Series III Land Rover in 1972. The pattern was an instant hit, and it quickly became one of the most popular options on the Defender. The pattern was also used on the Series IIA and Series IIB Land Rovers, as well as the early models of the Defender 90 and Defender 110.

The Design of the Dancing Dolphin Pattern

The Dancing Dolphin pattern is a series of interlocking dolphins that are arranged in a random pattern. The dolphins are all different sizes and shapes, and they are often depicted in different poses. The pattern is created using a combination of raised and recessed lines, which gives it a three-dimensional appearance.

The Dancing Dolphin pattern is both distinctive and functional. The pattern is easy to spot, even from a distance, and it helps to make the Defender stand out from other 4x4s. The pattern also provides additional grip on slippery surfaces, making it ideal for off-road driving.

The Different Types of Dancing Dolphin Patterns

There are several different types of Dancing Dolphin patterns that were used on the Defender over the years. The most common type of pattern is the "standard" pattern, which features a series of dolphins that are arranged in a random pattern. Other types of patterns include the "dolphin and wave" pattern, which features dolphins swimming in waves, and the "dolphin and fish" pattern, which features dolphins chasing fish.

The different types of Dancing Dolphin patterns were used on different models of the Defender. The standard pattern was used on the Series III Land Rover, the Series IIA and Series IIB Land Rovers, and the early models of the Defender 90 and Defender 110. The dolphin and wave pattern was used on the later models of the Defender 90 and Defender 110, and the dolphin and fish pattern was used on the Defender 130.

The Meaning of the Dancing Dolphin Pattern

The Dancing Dolphin pattern has become a symbol of the Land Rover Defender. The pattern represents the Defender's strength, durability, and off-road capability. The dolphins also represent the Defender's playful side, and they remind us that driving a Defender is supposed to be fun.

The Legacy of the Dancing Dolphin Pattern

The Dancing Dolphin pattern is one of the most iconic features of the Land Rover Defender. The pattern has been used on Defenders for over 50 years, and it has become synonymous with the vehicle. The pattern is a reminder of the Defender's rich history, and it represents the vehicle's unique combination of style and functionality.

The Dancing Dolphin pattern is still used on the Land Rover Defender today. The pattern is available as an option on the Defender 90, Defender 110, and Defender 130. The pattern is also available on a range of Defender accessories, including clothing, mugs, and key rings.

The Dancing Dolphin pattern is a unique and distinctive feature of the Land Rover Defender. The pattern has been used on Defenders for over 50 years, and it has become synonymous with the vehicle. The pattern represents the Defender's strength, durability, off-road capability, and playful side. The Dancing Dolphin pattern is a reminder of the Defender's rich history, and it represents the vehicle's unique combination of style and functionality.

Defenders (1972-1986) #1

by Dancing Dolphin Patterns

5 out of 5