Okay here goes.....Montgomery Wards, Fall and Winter 1972...
Austin,
This model is #1 the machine that was fourth down, in the washer hierarchy in the 100th anniversary year of Montgomery Wards in 1972.# 2 a color model, which aren't that common Im sure. And # 3 I have this machine in front of me, on paper of course in the Fall Winter Catalog from 1972,and it's not that far off from the Top of the Line Signature 1000 model at $319.95. which has but a few more accesories, the automatic detergent dispenser described elsewhere, and all pushbutton control, with a "masterdial".
Heres some specifics on it.
8 cycle, three speed combinations.
Sold for $229.95
Explanation via the catalog- Handles everything from a 2lb. pound load to a full 18lb one. Infinite water level control assures you the right amount of water. 8 cycles including two for durable press and a 30 minute pre-saok. 3 speed combinations, 5 position water temp. control. Lint Filter agitator with scrubber cap for four-way wash. Bleach and fabric softner dispensers. Backguard with handy lighted dial. Reversible safety lid, plus all features on top of page. Acrylic finish cabinet,porcelain top and lid. 27-15/16thsW/37D/45 1/4 H. State color number. Cat # L85C6421R- 00-(WHITE)-$229.95 22-HarvestGold,33-Avacado,55-Coppertone-$234.95.
Features stated at the top of the page are- "SIX reasons why WARDS SIGNATURE washers are #1: 18lb.capacity, 9 rinses remove floating soil and detergent, 18 in 4 vane agitator for better wash action, Suspension system has greater stability, 1/2 horsepower motor like those of commercial washers and Heavy-Duty transmission-no more overload worries.
To be frank Austin, go and get it. Yes you may pay more for it that your should, but how often anymore does ANYONE really see an old Signature of any sort. It will if anything help you to have a nicer more full collection, and I have paid more for my previous sets.
Anyway I jsut wanted to give you the heads up, as I have the info book right here on my thigh. Seems like apretty cool washer if you ask me.
And no they did NOT offer this panel past at least 1976. In my Spring Summer Wards catalog from 1978, they offered a different U shaped ends panel, no backsplash lights whatsoever on the Norge based, higher end models, and by then were pushing heavily the Westinghouse models again. Front and Top loaders respectively. I have these cat's in front of me so ask away if you want to know...
Wards: 1959 F/W , 1966 Spr/Sum, 1968 F/W, 1972 F/W, 1976 S/S, 1978 F/W, 1980 S/S and F/W, 1982 S/S and 1984-85 final catalog, that was split into two distinct parts.
Anywa good luck whatever you decide there...
Chad