Today, someone reached out asking for advice on a Gottlieb Centigrade 37 they just acquired. As one of my all-time favorite machines—and a proud part of my personal collection—I was more than happy to share some tips.
This conversation sparked a bit of nostalgia, leading me to dig through my archives. I found the photos of my own Centigrade 37 restoration from 15 years ago. Time flies, but the passion for these machines only grows.
The “Blue” Garage Find Just like my client’s machine, mine started as a forgotten “garage find.” It had been sitting idle for decades. As you can see in the photos, someone had inexplicably painted the entire cabinet blue, and the playfield was in a sorry state.
The Process: From Sanding to Fine Art The resurrection required a total teardown. I spent days sanding the cabinet back to its original wood to prepare it for a fresh start.
The playfield was a different challenge. I managed to source a second playfield in slightly better condition, but it still had significant art loss. In the photos, you can see my wife meticulously retouching the playfield art by hand—a true labor of love to bring those vibrant 70s colors back to life.
The Resurrection Looking at the “Before and After” shots, it’s hard to believe it’s the same machine. Seeing it today in my collection reminds me why I do this. Every Gottlieb deserves a second chance at life.
Do you have a vintage Gottlieb or any classic pinball that needs a resurrection? Whether it’s a mechanical overhaul or a full aesthetic restoration, I’m here to help.