Antique Whistle Orange Drink Neon Clock 40s.

Compared to the massive Coca-Cola marquee clock, this Whistle Orange Drink piece is a classic “clocker”—the kind of countertop or wall unit that defined mid-century general stores. While Coca-Cola is the “king” of soda advertising, “Whistle” (first bottled by Vess in 1916) has a dedicated cult following because of its bright, nostalgic orange-and-blue branding.

At 14 1/4″, this is the standard size for a “Cleveland” or “Lackner” style neon clock, making it highly collectible because it fits easily into a home bar or office.

🥤 Brand History: “Thirsty? Just Whistle”

Whistle was famous for its catchy slogans and “bright” flavor. By the 1940s, they were competing heavily with Orange Crush and Sun Drop. Because Whistle wasn’t as globally dominant as Coke, original 1940s Whistle merchandise is significantly harder to find.

🔍 Key Features of Item 183

• The “Metal Can”: The fact that this has a metal housing (rather than plastic) confirms its 1940s pedigree. Collectors look for original crinkle-finish paint on the can.

• Curved Glass Dial: Often referred to as “bubble glass,” these are fragile. It is original and scratch-free, it significantly boosts the value.

• The Neon Color: Usually, these featured a vibrant orange neon ring to match the drink’s branding. If the neon is original glass (not modern LED), it is far more desirable.

💰 Valuation & Market Demand

While smaller than the Coke marquee, the rarity of the Whistle brand keeps the price floor high.

Estimated Market Value: Depending on the condition of the face (fading vs. crisp graphics), these typically range from $1,200 to $2,800.