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PMS 208 C is part of the Pantone PMS system, a globally recognized color standard for consistent brand and identity usage. This color has a distinctly deep, rich red character with slightly cool undertones and a refined, technical vibe. Its appearance is bold yet controlled, frequently described as serious, confident, and attention-grabbing while maintaining visual sophistication.

PMS 208 C presents as a dark, concentrated red, with a low LRV of 7.54 indicating minimal light reflectance. The color has a cool tendency, showing a subtle bluish undertone that prevents it from appearing overly warm. This color is highly saturated, producing a vivid and assertive presence. PMS 208 C shows a muted base, avoiding high chromatic intensity seen in more primary reds. Finish sensitivity is moderate; higher-gloss finishes will intensify its depth, while matte can soften its saturated effect.

PMS 208 C works well in environments where a bold, branded red is needed for visual recognition, such as signage, displays, and branded architectural elements. This color maintains a consistent appearance in a wide variety of lighting conditions, but low ambient light may increase the perception of depth. Uniform application is important, as uneven coverage or thin films can make darker reds appear patchy. Relative to other reds in the Pantone system, PMS 208 C is more restrained, with less warmth and less overt brightness, making it suitable for applications that require strong yet controlled visual impact.

Similar colors:
PMS 201 C offers a darker, slightly more muted red with a more neutral undertone.

PMS 209 C is deeper and cooler, emphasizing a richer burgundy quality.

PMS 186 C is much brighter and warmer, presenting a more vibrant, primary red appearance.

Product Data

About Pantone and MyPerfectColor

MyPerfectColor is the official licensee of Pantone and authorized to reproduce the Pantone™ PMS 208 C color in spray paint and other paints.

MyPerfectColor helps marketing professionals turn graphic designs into physical reality. Whether you are a manufacturer, entrepreneur, industrial designer, prototyper/modeler, marketer, agency, printer, retailer, sign manufacturer, exhibit fabricator or architect, MyPerfectColor will help you nail the PMS 208 C color and produce outstanding results.

MyPerfectColor matches the Pantone PMS 208 C color based on Pantone color publications. The PMS 208 C color shown on this website are computer video simulations of the PANTONE PMS 208 C Color and may not match PANTONE®-identified Color standards. Refer to current PANTONE Publications to obtain accurate color.

The Pantone PMS 208 C color may vary from the PANTONE Color Standards based on lighting conditions, angle of view and/or due to differences in pigments, manufacturing process, substrate and/or limitations in the color capability of the paint. Refer to current PANTONE Publications to obtain accurate color.

PANTONE® and other Pantone trademarks are the property of Pantone LLC. Portions © Pantone LLC, 2019. Produced under License Agreement between MyPerfectColor.com and Pantone LLC.

Pantone

Frequently Asked Questions About Pantone™ PMS 208 C

What is the difference between the name PMS 208 C and its code, and how do I make sure I order the correct Pantone color?

The term PMS 208 C includes both the Pantone name and its code. PMS stands for Pantone Matching System, the number '208' identifies the specific color, and the 'C' suffix means 'Coated', referring to the version intended for coated materials. When ordering, always provide the full Pantone code, including any suffix (such as 'C' for Coated or 'U' for Uncoated), since names alone can introduce confusion and increase the risk of receiving the wrong color. Double check the code on your project requirements or brand standards and specify 'Pantone PMS 208 C' in your order to ensure color accuracy.

What should I consider when applying PMS 208 C over a large area to maintain a uniform, brand-consistent appearance?

For PMS 208 C, which is a deep and saturated red, large surface applications can reveal coverage issues if not applied carefully. Plan for consistent application by priming with a neutral or tinted base if high hide is a concern, especially over contrasting substrates. Use the same batch of paint throughout the project, and maintain consistent spray or brush techniques. Allow adequate drying between coats and apply multiple thin layers rather than a single heavy coat to avoid patchiness. Always check the finish and color appearance in the intended lighting before completing the job, as lighting can affect how PMS 208 C reads visually.

Are there special considerations for using Pantone PMS 208 C in pop-ups or retail installations?

When specifying PMS 208 C for pop-ups or branded retail environments, prioritize durability and appearance under store lighting. Test a sample on your actual substrate and under the planned lighting conditions before full-scale application, since finish and illumination can affect color perception. Choose a paint format and finish that matches your durability needs, such as spray paint for quick, uniform coverage or urethane for added toughness. Proper surface prep and top coats can help maintain the color's visual impact throughout the event or installation.

How do I find the SDS for paint made in the Pantone PMS 208 C color?

The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is linked to the paint product type, not the Pantone PMS 208 C color itself. Once you have selected a specific product format for PMS 208 C, such as spray paint, urethane, or house paint, access the SDS library provided for that product. Review those documents to confirm compliance and safety details for your application. Always refer to the SDS for the exact product you are using, regardless of the color.

How quickly will I receive my paint matched to Pantone PMS 208 C?
All paint is custom-made to order. While most orders ship within 48 hours, the lead-time for paint made to match Pantone PMS 208 C depends on the type of paint needed. Interior and exterior house paints usually ship within 1 to 3 business days, while custom spray paint typically takes 3-5 business days to ship. The transit time depends on your location and the shipping method you choose. If your need is immediate, select Expedited Production during checkout. Most expedited production orders ship within 24 hours on business days. Please contact MyPerfectColor if you are concerned about a specific deadline. We do our best to make sure you get your paint on time. Learn more about paint lead times at MyPerfectColor.
Can I use the Pantone PMS 208 C for touch up?

Unfortunately, no.

Some manufacturers specify Pantone colors as touch up for their products, but Pantone does not work well as a proxy for a touch-up solution (for a litany of reasons such as it doesn't include sheen and Pantone color tolerances are not tight enough for touch up). When we match Pantone colors we are matching to a swatch in a Pantone book - not to your product.

The only way we can provide a touch-up solution for your product is for you send us a part. We would use the part to create a touch-up grade match. Unfortunately, there isn't an effective way to 'spec' the color well enough to produce a touch up without the part.

Read more about using Pantone for touch-up.

Learn more about our paint color matching service.

How do I buy paint in the Pantone PMS 208 C?
Many types of paint are available for Pantone PMS 208 C with no minimum order quantities. MyPerfectColor offers spray paint, paint pens, touch up bottles, water-based acrylics, epoxies, urethanes and a variety of other paints. Select the Paint Type button above to get started. Learn more about buying paint at MyPerfectColor.
How much area will one spray can cover? And what is Pantone PMS 208 C spray paint made of?

To make spray paint matched to Pantone PMS 208 C. MyPerfectColor uses an acrylic enamel which is a fast-drying durable coating suitable for interior or exterior use. MyPerfectColor custom spray paint enables you to conveniently achieve a professional spray-smooth finish in any color in any sheen. It sticks well to most surfaces including metal, plastics, powder-coatings, cabinets and primed or previously painted wood.

The 11oz spray will cover about 20 square feet per coat. Keep in mind that it is difficult to gauge how much spray you'll need as it is highly dependent on how it is applied. It is better to have too much than run short.

How do I get the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) for paint matched to Pantone PMS 208 C?
The Pantone PMS 208 C is the color and the SDS is based on the type of paint used to make the color. You can find Safety Data Sheets here for our most popular products.
Do I need a primer for Pantone PMS 208 C?
The need for primer for Pantone PMS 208 C depends on the type of paint, the substrate being painted and where it will be located. See our Primer Selection Table to see what primer you might need and learn more about when you might need a primer. Most people don't use a primer for a touch up paint application, but a primer may improve adhesion and is typically recommended for exterior applications.
How do I convert PMS 208 C to a different color from another paint company?

While MyPerfectColor can provide PMS 208 C in paint, we don't provide any crossover information. We've found that every paint company offers its own unique selection of colors and rarely does a color have an exact equivalent in another company's color collection, especially for a color collection like Pantone which is designed for bright colors and inks.