Key identifiers for this speedometer include a light grey/blue upper plate, a darker blue lower plate, a printed central 'dot pattern' with a silver gradient, printed hash marks (no decals), yellow/silver/cream numerals on the glass, a bottom-positioned bar and shield logo, and a shorter red pointer.

Identifying features of the 1953-1955 speedometers include a grey/blue lower plate, a dark blue upper plate, numerals and hash marks printed on the glass in a yellow/silver hue, and the 'Harley-Davidson' name at the bottom instead of the logo. Pointer color and tenth wheel details vary by year: white pointer/red tenth wheel numbers (1953), red pointer/red tenth wheel numbers (1954), and red pointer/white tenth wheel with black numbers (1955).

The 1956 speedometer is easily recognizable by its light gold lower plate and dark brown upper ring. Further distinguishing it are the bright green numerals and hash marks screened on the underside of the glass. As in previous years, 'Harley-Davidson' is displayed at the bottom. A bright red pointer completes the look.
It's worth noting that the 1957 model year has a variant featuring a red tenth wheel on the trip odometer.