Uh, Unique take on the clear bra

What does the Greek philosopher Plato have to do with technology? What does he have to do with automobiles? If you’re thinking not much, then you’re probably right. What does an ancient philosopher have to do with a concept so modern, right? But on second thought, maybe he has more than a little to do with them. It was Plato who famously declared a number of years ago (more like thousands) that “necessity is the mother of invention”. That he uttered those words at a time when computers, cars, and other modern trappings haven’t even been conceived by the human mind is a testament to why his writings endure long after he has gone.

For indeed, most modern inventions have been a result of necessity. People have been inventing stuff more often than not in the face of a certain need that has yet to be fulfilled. Take automobiles, for example. The term automobile, by etymology, means a vehicle that is capable of moving itself, from the words auto (“self”) and mobile (“moving” or “movement”). We would never truly know what motivated German engineer Karl Benz, considered by and large as the inventor of the modern automobile, to conceive what has now become such an ubiquitous contraption. But we can surmise that it came from necessity, for in that late-18th century era of Industrial Revolution, there was a need for faster and better forms of transportation that would bring people from one destination to another. Thus because man-pulled carts and horse-drawn carriages were simply too slow, he invented the modern automobile.

The brassiere, or more commonly known as the bra, is another example of human ingenuity brought about by necessity. In the 1500s, women wore corsets to cover, restrain, elevate, or protect their breasts. The problem with a corset was that it was oftentimes strapped on too tight and suffocating for women, and it usually required the assistance of at least one person to put on. Well, look at what we now know as the bra. Easy to wear, easy to take off, just the right fit. There’s another perfect example of necessity mothering invention.

You’re probably thinking by now: What is this person talking about? And what in the world name do automobiles have to do with bras? The answer lies in what car enthusiasts call the Clear Bra.

Clear Bra is a derivative of the vinyl car bra protective concept. But as opposed to the often bulky and hard to put on vinyl car protectors, the clear bra is an almost invisible, film-like and always-on alternative. You have to really be close to the vehicle and strain your neck and eyes trying to look just to recognize that it’s there. Just like vinyl bras, it provides protection from the elements – pebbles, insects, hard rain, small scratches, and just the wear-and-tear years of everyday driving can do to your car paint.

But unlike their predecessor, instead of having to continuously remove and replace the clear bra after every encounter with sand or heavy rain, a tedious process that can also trap dirt and moisture underneath the film, the clear bra paint protection system is semi-permanently installed. Think window or windshield tint. It will last you for about six to eight years, and requires little to no maintenance at all. There may be a trade-off of substance for form, however, as the protective film is much less reflective than paint and looks duller under light. That’s a minor price to pay for year’s worth of paint protection.

Originally designed to protect race cars and helicopter blades, the technology has been extended to cater to everyday car owners. The clear bra is easy enough to install. In fact, the film may be applied on your own, with some companies even providing do-it-yourself videos along with the actual product. But application by your car dealer or a skilled professional is of course recommended for best results. The film itself is not that expensive, costing on average $200-$300. But expect to pay a premium of another $200-$300 if you ask your dealer to apply it.

The Clear Bra is supplied in 8 or 14 millimeter thickness in bulk roll form easily cut-to-fit for application on hoods, head and tail lights, fenders, bumpers, side mirrors, spoilers, or may come in customized pre-cut application form for a wide variety of cars and trucks. Car enthusiasts swear by the product. Aside from the protection it provides, the biggest thing for them is how easy it is to clean it. Some water and a damp microfiber sponge with your standard clear coat safe car shampoo is all it takes to remove any dirt that may stick to it. Waxing the surface is also easy because of the natural gloss from the clear coat on the film.