Mercedes-Benz has gone back to its roots by launching special checquered upholstery for the iconic 300 SL.

These are now reproduced by the original supplier, according to initial specifications, and are made from 100 percent high-quality wool yarn.

The company offers them in three different chequered designs: blue-grey (L1), red-green (L2) and green beige (L3). The first one was found in nearly 80 percent of the 300 SL models with a fabric interior, made from 1954 to 1957. The second one used to fit almost 14 percent of the cars, while the L3 was ordered by about 6 percent.

Besides looking identical to the original upholstery and being made by the exact same German supplier, these are said to meet the specifications “of the then Daimler-Benz AG, in regard to wear- and scuff-resistance, light-fastness and flammability”. The fiber is also “breathable, offers natural moisture management, and thus creates a pleasant seat climate, especially on long journeys”.

The upholstery is priced per meter (3.28feet), with a width of 1,400mm (55.12in), and cost €184.45 (equal to $227) in Germany, excluding tax.

As far as getting your hands on a pristine Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, these often sell for over €1 million ($1.2 million), whereas the Gullwing model usually exceeds €1.5 million ($1.8 million).