No commercial prior to 1/75 should have retractables. The earlier type console is a near definite match for floppy buckles and the change to the bigger hole must be in line with fitment of retractables later in HQ. HQ Sandman was such low volume it got what the GTS got.

Definite on the SS for the Belmont HQ XX7 and the Holden HJ XX7. In my opinion a Sandman would have probably been an SS ute or SS van if the sports sedan stayed as an SS and didn't get hijacked into a Monaro by marketing.

--- Updated ---

Quote Originally Posted by mauser View Post
Byron has said the retractable seat belts only appeared on 1/1/75 in commercials. The interesting thing is what ends did the HJ have initially from 9/74 until 1/75 and that hasnt been answered. The console in that wouldnt allowed floppy ends at all so it must of had stalks when bucket seats were fitted (they lay on the seat with a benchy).

The HQ console may be like the introduction of the C grain in the HZ, there is no immidiate cut-over but rather a phasing in as old stocks are depleted.

The HQ SS didnt get the 140mph (220kph) speedo but did get the houndstooth seat inserts. I think the asthetics of the Holden badge in the grille lent itself to the all-black SS grille in the Sandman.

Mauser
I'll check out the 10/74 HJ ute I know of to see what ends are on it. It has original belts in it.