Hailing from Beverly Hills, California, Ed Roth left an indelible mark on Southern California’s Kustom Kulture during the 1950s and 1960s, earning him the moniker “Big Daddy” among enthusiasts.
Roth’s journey began with his early fascination with automobiles, leading him to pursue engineering studies before immersing himself in the emerging Kustom Kulture scene. By 1958, he had introduced his iconic “Weirdo” T-shirts featuring signature caricatures, igniting a craze that propelled his career.
Amidst the success of his caricatures, Roth embarked on crafting show cars, culminating in the creation of the renowned Orbitron in 1964. Combining classic hot-rod methods with Roth’s colorful aesthetic, the Orbitron attracted attention to vehicle shows due to its unique features and asymmetrical shape.
Despite Roth’s self-perceived failure due to the unremarkable powerplant, the Orbitron garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying Roth’s status as a revered custom car builder.
However, the Orbitron’s journey took an unexpected turn post-1967, culminating in its discovery in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, decades later, in a state of disrepair.
Following a painstaking restoration effort led by Michael Lightbourn and subsequent acquisition by Beau Boeckmann of Galpin Auto Sports, the Orbitron was restored to its former glory.
Today, the meticulously restored Orbitron stands as a testament to Roth’s enduring legacy, showcased at the Galpin Premier Collection in Van Nuys, California, preserving the spirit of Kustom Kulture for generations to come.