@ mohsinikram(again!)
The beetle Buksh has posted is a 1960 or 61 model. The tail lights are correct for the car. This type was found on Beetles from 1956 to 1961. My 59 should have a pair and I hope to bring in a pair from the US or UK as these are rare here.
The number plate housing seen on the particular car is also correct, having been carried out from 1953 to early 1963 with subtle differences twice.
Strictly speaking, this is not a 'popes nose' as those were very different and found on very early cars, the Split windows. However, I have noticed over the last couple of years that VW circles have started to refer to this type also a popes nose. So being a nickname only maybe its correct?
Ovals are very desirable and thats a fact. The later 'square window' cars introduced for the 1958 model year are very different, and yes, they have a lesser fan following. However recently they have started to become more popular maybe due to the fact that ovals are getting harder to find.
Interestingly the enlargement of the rear window was suggested by an Italian designer, the name escapes me now but I have seen a vintage advert on youtube describing this.
The 'square window' (though a rectangle) was carried on to the 1964 year model when it was enlarged slightly for the 65 model. A second enlagement was seen for the 1971 year model.
All these enlargements were done for the sake of safety as they provided better rear vision for the driver.
I refer to the cars as 'model years' as the model was changed in August. Therefore a Beetle manufactured in August 1957 was a 1958 year model and so on.
The Karachi split window which is perhaps the oldest VW in Pakistan has been discussed earlier on Pakwheels. I have been after this car for years. Unfortunately the current owners demand silly money for it. Had the car been complete their current demand (I believe for 3 lakh rupees) may have been acceptable.
Issue with myself is I dont have large amounts of money at my disposal at least now. Have to build my career for reaching that stage (a whole new story....). Had the demand been even slightly reasonable I would have considered it.
Another major hitch is the fact that the car does not have legitimate paprwork as far as I know. That would make it very difficult to get proper registration and tax clearance. I think that alone would need a large chunk of cash to resolve.
The current owner seems to be on weed if the issue of selling is discussed. Im sure now he would quote that some gentlemen in a tiny micro car came to view the car and 'almost bought it' for 3 or 5 lakhs! He has interesting tales to tell.
He claims (I cant deny it now that I heard stories in this connection from romano) that someone from the Leghari family, a relative of ex-president Farooq Leghari came and gave him token money for the car many years ago but disappeared as the Leghari Govt was thrown out a few days later. Im guessing this was Omar Leghari, reported to go all over the country, handing out token money for roting classics and then disappearing. Dont want to sound personal but thats what Ive heard about him.
Best wishes and regards to all.
