Vehicle Description
Buick first displayed the Skylark as a General Motors Motorama show
car in 1952, and it was essentially a factory-built "sport custom"
based on the Roadmaster Convertible platform. The windshield was
chopped four inches, the beltline was cut down and notched at the
rear fender line and the rear-wheel cutouts were rounded and raised
to match those in the front fenders - all techniques being used by
California's customizers during the same period. Notably, the
styling lacked Buick's trademark "ventiports" on the front fenders,
lending it a clean and sporty look that helped it stand apart from
the rest of the line. A production version of the Skylark was
introduced the following year alongside the Cadillac Eldorado and
Oldsmobile Fiesta, with each limited-production top-of-the-line
model representing the very best of the era's styling and luxury.
These three remarkable luxury sport limited production convertibles
are sometimes referred to as the "Triple Crown" of 1953 GM range.
Celebrating Buick's 50th anniversary, the Skylark was essentially a
hand-built car customized for each new owner, with a $5,000 price
tag helping to limit sales to just 1,690 units. It also introduced
the marque's first modern overhead-valve V-8, also called the
"Nailhead," which could produce 188 hp and 300 pound-feet of
torque. While the Skylark name would continue as a
limited-production model for 1954 and would reappear in Buick's
hierarchy for decades, the 1953 model is generally considered the
most desirable by collectors, approaching iconic status for fans of
50s American Iron. A significant member of the heralded "Triple
Crown" of Harley Earl-styled General Motors 1953 convertibles, this
Skylark convertible is a marvelous example of what many consider to
be Earl's finest production convertible design. Presented in its
original factory color combination of Majestic White with a
contrasting thinly pleated red with white stitching-and-white
leather interior, the car was restored quite some time ago, yet
remains in excellent condition today thanks to years of attentive
care. The attractive interior also features the factory-correct
Di-Noc patterned metal dash that holds a beautifully designed round
speedometer cluster, gauges, clock and stylish chrome knobs with a
pushbutton radio and large ribbed speaker grill at the center. A
contrasting black cloth convertible top makes for an elegant
combination. The body wears smooth and glossy paintwork highlighted
by glistening chrome and brightwork, which have aged gracefully
since the restoration was completed. The engine bay is detailed
with proper paint finishes, clamps, harnesses, and decals appearing
in the right places. This stylish Skylark is complemented by a set
of correct Kelsey-Hayes forty-spoke wire wheels wrapped in correct
wide whitewall tires. A continental spare at the rear of the car
shows off another one of the fabulous wire wheels. Rare,
top-of-the-line and stylish, this 1953 Buick Skylark is a feast for
the eyes. With the legendary and powerful "Nailhead" V-8 and smooth
Dynaflow automatic transmission, this Buick is a pleasure to
operate as well. It's nicely mellowed restoration makes it ideally
suited for touring, automotive gatherings and club events, this
Skylark is a wonderful example of one of the most desirable Buicks
ever produced and would make an exciting addition to any
collection. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7563-1953-buick-skylark/
