Ole Bardahl, a Norwegian immigrant, arrived in Seattle in 1922 with $29 in his pocket. He soon became a general contractor in Seattle, building homes, while discovering and developing his interest in chemistry. 

The Polar Plus formula is the result of a brilliant chemical intuition by Ole Bardahl, who developed and patented this unique chemical formula through the creation of a special additive designed to be used for lubricating engines. Initially, this additive could not be marketed as it was classified by the Government of the United States of America, and used in their fighter planes.

The Polar Plus formula consisted of electrically charged molecules capable of chemically attaching themselves to metal, like micro-magnets. These molecules can reduce the friction between two metal surfaces to the point that proper lubrication is present even in the absence of lubricating oil. The extraordinary effectiveness of Bardahl Polar Plus allowed pilots to keep control of their aircrafts  while performing emergency landings.

Bardahl Polar Plus formula is still the basis of all Bardahl lubricants, which have evolved and have been refined over the years, with the goal of  improving their extraordinary performance.

Once the Government restrictions were removed, Ole Bardahl founded the Bardahl Oil Company in the Ballard neighbourhood of Seattle.

The company is still owned and managed by the Bardahl family.