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Which “hide” swirls better? Obsidian Black or Jet Black?

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Old Jun 19, 2007 | 07:00 PM
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MBS430's Avatar
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Question Which “hide” swirls better? Obsidian Black or Jet Black?

Which “hide” swirls better? Obsidian Black or Jet Black?

Currently I have Brilliant Silver and am loving it!! Almost no swirl shown even with just twice a year MCgwire NXT wax. For the next car, I want Black for a change

Personally I prefer the JetBlack WHEN it is clean and swirl-free as it has more shining black, but that’s a very2 high maintenance on the paint finish (at least for me). So I am thinking maybe the metallic in Obsidian black will reduce swirl shown.

Can anyone advise:
- which “hide” swirls better?
- which “hide” scratches better?
- And which is easier to apply touch up paint (for like rock chip on the front bumper or hood)
ObsidianBlack or Jet Black?
Thanks much in advance
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Old Jun 19, 2007 | 07:57 PM
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eddietr's Avatar
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I think the general consensus is that obsidian hides swirls better.

But black, I think, looks better when clean.

Having said that, I went with obsidian in my S550 because of the slightly easier maintenance.
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Old Jun 20, 2007 | 12:56 PM
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I think the obsidian black will show less of the imperfections. Black can be more challenging to maintain because the imperfections are so much more visible. I highly recommend your read our How To Detail Guide for washing and drying to prevent adding more swirls. Most swirls are added during the washing and drying process so having the right techniques with paint safe products is essential. You may also want to look at our June Special. This kit will help you complete safe and effective cleanings so the black stays looking great. The Wash Accessories Kit #4 is regularly $81.95 and is now $59.99 and it includes:
2x Sheepskin Wash Mitts
2x Waffle Weave Towels
1x Grit Guard Insert
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Old Sep 30, 2007 | 05:58 PM
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Just went through this in detail, well worth the time.
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Old Jan 9, 2008 | 11:26 AM
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Naturally, the metallic will show less of the swirls than typical black. I bought mine in Obsidian specificially to have the metallic "charm", but either way, you have a black car and crud will show more.

Good luck!
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Old Jan 10, 2008 | 11:31 AM
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Originally Posted by MBS430
Which “hide” swirls better? Obsidian Black or Jet Black?

Currently I have Brilliant Silver and am loving it!! Almost no swirl shown even with just twice a year MCgwire NXT wax. For the next car, I want Black for a change

Personally I prefer the JetBlack WHEN it is clean and swirl-free as it has more shining black, but that’s a very2 high maintenance on the paint finish (at least for me). So I am thinking maybe the metallic in Obsidian black will reduce swirl shown.

Can anyone advise:
- which “hide” swirls better?
- which “hide” scratches better?
- And which is easier to apply touch up paint (for like rock chip on the front bumper or hood)
ObsidianBlack or Jet Black?
Thanks much in advance
Very simply---Black is not a color but a part time job!!!
Reply
Old Jan 10, 2008 | 12:38 PM
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From: Canton (North Metro Atlanta), Georgia
2003 E500
Originally Posted by lkirchner
Very simply---Black is not a color but a part time job!!!
Awesome statement!
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Old Jan 20, 2008 | 02:07 PM
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Originally Posted by lkirchner
Very simply---Black is not a color but a part time job!!!
this is sooo true!!! more like a full time job for me haha
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Old Jan 21, 2008 | 04:15 AM
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but the old saying goes can't go wrong with a black benz lol anyways ya i have black and it really is a full time job. hands down black always looks good but if you want something that'll hide swirls you can only go light or you can get grey, white stays clean for awhile too
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Old Jan 24, 2008 | 03:24 PM
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I love the full time job; I am a compulsive cleaner.
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Old Feb 16, 2008 | 10:51 AM
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Originally Posted by lkirchner
Very simply---Black is not a color but a part time job!!!

HA. Best line Ive heard.

My E is white. I went the other direction. Its still an obsession.
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