Abstract: A mechanism for the retractable top of an open automobile, comprising a plurality of frame elements (1,2) pivoted one after the other to be turnable relative to each other, the frame elements (1,2) comprising a first frame element (1) which is the foremost frame element on the free end of the top and a second frame element (2) which is the frame element adjacent to the first frame element. The first frame element (1) comprises a pair of first side rods (51), which are substantially longitudinal to the vehicle, and the second frame element (2) comprising a pair of second side rods (52), which are substantially longitudinal to the vehicle, and the side rods (51,52) being disposed to be turnable relative to each other in a vertical plane. The top mechanism further comprises an operating rod (7) arranged to cause the turning of the first side rod relative to the second side rod in connection with the processes of stretching the top mechanism over and of folding it up.