Handmade in the uk
Aston Martin DB2 Front Radiator Grille
- DB2
- DB2/4 MK I
- DB2/4 MK II
The front grille is probably the most visible and distinctive brightwork component on an Aston Martin DB2. Our one‑piece configuration DB2 front grilles use the same, authentic steel wireframe construction and brass slats, faithfully replicating the original Feltham factory‑floor specifications of the 1950s.
This horizontal‑slat configuration superseded the earlier three‑piece grille with vertically positioned slats and preceded the later mesh grilles and surrounds fitted to the DB MK III models—representing the marque’s design progression through the 1950s—an evolution that shaped the modern Aston Martin grille we recognise today.
Through more than 40 years of experience repairing DB2 front grilles from around the world, we understand this product better than anyone. Each new grille is meticulously constructed using true‑to‑original specially profiled V‑shaped slats created on our bespoke tooling, derived from original drawings and factory dimensions sought from genuine parts. Our brass grilles are soft and silver‑soldered together, replicating the original early 1950s factory‑floor construction, while our aluminium variants offer customers lightweight alternatives to the traditional chrome‑plated brass versions for competition use cases.
Every grille includes a starter handle slider cover that fits snugly onto the slider box ensuring proper clearance and smooth operation after plating.
All new grilles are manufactured using DMark® custom tooling, jigs, patterns, and manufacturing aids developed and refined over the past 20 years—representing the most comprehensive reproduction programme available anywhere.
Fitting Hardware Available: If your existing grille‑to‑bonnet mounting brackets show signs of wear, fatigue, or damage, explore our comprehensive fitting kits designed specifically for better, more secure, long‑term installation.
All DMark® DB2 grilles are finished as polished brass, with every front‑facing surface meticulously polished and chrome‑ready.
Choose between polished brass or chrome‑plated finish. DMark® partners exclusively with established, reputable electroplating specialists who understand the unique requirements of automotive brightwork and share our exacting quality standards.
The DB2 grille is essentially a bolt‑on component, so many clients prefer us to manage the chrome plating process for consistency and quality assurance. However, we understand that some customers prefer to handle plating themselves—particularly when batching chrome work with other restoration components after dry‑fitting.
Primarily made‑to‑order, with occasionally one or two units in stock for immediate dispatch.
Fixtures are not included and sold separately—please refer to our fitting kits for a complete mounting solution if your existing brackets have seen better days.
Our brass slats use 0.9/1mm gauge (20 SWG) brass compared to the original 1950s specification of 0.7mm (22 SWG). This increased material thickness, combined with other refinements, delivers superior rigidity and structural integrity across all DMark® grille assemblies.
Customers should be aware that vehicles with extensive repairs may have altered bodywork geometry due to paintwork processes and body filler usage, which can subtly affect panel shape where grilles are positioned. We have taken considerable care to replicate the most authentic original geometry, though this may occasionally differ from a vehicle’s current surface characteristics. Similarly, stud hole positions in bodywork or tabs may vary from new DMark® component specifications and minor adjustments may occasionally be required to achieve optimal fitment.
Standard configuration featuring 20 horizontal slat rows with 23 individual slats in total. Brass slats with a mild steel framework, replicating the same construction methods used by the original fabricators.
Grille Refurbishments
With over four decades restoring DB2 grilles from across the globe, DMark® continues to offer comprehensive refurbishment services when circumstances align.
Every grille we accept for repair undergoes a complete overhaul. We do not undertake partial repair each component is comprehensively stripped down, repaired, and reassembled using the same jigs and tooling we use for manufacturing our new grilles. This ensures dimensional accuracy and proper fitment regardless of whether we’re working with new or restored components.
While refurbishment can be a laborious process, some clients prefer to retain more of their original componentry when authenticity is paramount to their restoration. However, clients are aware that refurbishment costs can approach or exceed new grille pricing, depending on condition and the complexity of repairs.
Common grille problems we have addressed in the past;
- Impact damage from road debris and stone chips
- Distortion and damage from previous unsuccessful repair attempts
- Steel framework corrosion from salty roads
- Missing or damaged individual slats
- Missing or compromised starter handle sliders or slider boxes
- Chrome plating failures
- Soft solder failures through general usage and road vibrations over time
- Over polishing on slat edges
- Aggressive polishing wearing through or thinning slat centre peaks
- General metal fatigue through multiple chrome stripping, polishing, and re‑plating cycles
- Re‑establishing a fully slatted grille when alternate slats have been removed
Grille trade-in
DMark® may offer a discount against a new grille in exchange for your existing unit. Under this arrangement, we require genuine Aston Martin DB2 grilles, though we recognise these will typically show wear, damage, corrosion, or have missing components.
We may still consider grilles that are heavily damaged or extensively worn, evaluating each unit on its individual merits.
Why DB2 Grilles Require Expert Attention
Front radiator grilles occupy one of the most exposed positions on any vehicle, making them uniquely vulnerable to damage that other brightwork components rarely face. And at DMark® we have seen numerous examples in every state of repair one could imagine. Some of which has been due to poor workmanship.
Why Professional Restoration Matters
Too many grilles we’ve seen over the years show evidence of botched repairs by fabricators unfamiliar with the specific geometry and construction, or who simply cut corners. The intricate V‑shaped slat profiles with correct spacings, and dimensional relationships between the frame, mounting positions, polishing orders and slats demand specialised knowledge, jigs and tooling.
Investment Protection
A properly restored or new DMark® DB2 front grille represents both authentic period correctness and superior craftsmanship. Our grilles may well outlast original factory pieces while maintaining and enhancing your car’s value.
Identical polished brass finish to our standard grille, with all front‑facing surfaces prepared for chrome plating.
Same premium electroplating partnerships and finish options as our standard grille.
Made‑to‑order production.
Fixtures are not included—please see our fitting kits.
0.9/1mm brass gauge (20 SWG) slats, mild steel frame.
Our competition‑focused brass grille features 10 alternate slat rows—half the standard configuration—delivering meaningful weight reduction and increased airflow into the engine bay. Ideal for track and performance‑focused vehicles where the component must balance authenticity with dedicated track functionality.
Each slat and starter handle slider cover is finished as polished aluminium—no chrome plating required, providing an attractive, period‑appropriate appearance.
Made‑to‑order production.
Fixtures are not included—please see our fitting kits.
1.2mm gauge aluminium construction throughout. Current prototypes use advanced two‑pack metal adhesive bonding with exceptional results. Future production may incorporate precision laser welds.
Our innovative standard 20‑row configuration in a lightweight aluminium construction. Delivers significant weight savings versus traditional brass/chrome versions while maintaining the full authentic visual appearance. Perfect for customers who want concours‑quality brass grilles for events while maintaining a lightweight aluminium grille for competition or daily driving.
Polished aluminium finish—no chrome plating necessary.
Made‑to‑order production.
Fixtures are not included—please see our fitting kits.
1.2mm gauge aluminium with advanced bonding, potentially incorporating laser welded joints in future fabrications.
Our lightest grille variant featuring 10 alternate slat rows—half the standard specification. The ultimate lightweight solution for serious competition vehicles where every gram matters.
