Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America's Auburn Fall event,
August 31-3, 2017.
Chassis No.
13839B25
Estimate:
$ 35,000 - $ 45,000 US
Buick's offerings for 1914 consisted of just a single series, the
Series B, though somewhat confusingly, the Series B was made up of
a variety of sub models, configurations, and engine offerings. At
the entry level of the catalog, the B-24 and B-25 shared a 105 inch
wheelbase and a 165 cubic inch four-cylinder engine. Next in line
came the B-35, B-37 and the fully enclosed B-38 coupe featured a
112 inch wheelbase with motivation coming from a slightly larger
221 cubic inch four-cylinder. The flagship model was the B-55 which
featured the marque's first six cylinder engine, displacing 331
cubic inches and rated at 48 horsepower.
The common thread for all Series B Buicks was the valve-in-head
engine with its distinctive exposed valvetrain, and all models
(with the exception of the B-38) were available as either a
roadster or a handsome touring car. Thanks to Buick being part of
General Motors, all 1914 models featured the Delco System electric
starter and lamps originally pioneered by Cadillac in 1912. The
B-25 cost $1,050 in 1914, when compared to the Ford Model T at
$440, made the Buick was a significant step up in the market. Just
over 21,000 Buicks found homes in 1914, demonstrating ever growing
strength of Buick and the increase demand from the middle class for
more powerful and well equipped motorcars.
This tidy 1914 Buick B-25 Touring Car is a very usable and
attractive example that has been treated to a good quality
restoration some time ago, having now taken on a pleasing patina.
Two-tone black and white paint gives it a handsome and striking
look. Paint quality is quite good, showing some age since the
restoration was completed, but remaining quite attractive and
charming. By 1914, the brass era was winding down, and nickel
plating had become the standard embellishment. This example wears
nice nickel-plated headlamps, wheel hub covers and trim on the duel
carriage lamps. A Buick branded moto-meter sits atop the black
painted radiator, which also proudly brandishes the Buick script. A
very nice period appropriate spot light is affixed to the
windscreen frame. Blackwall tires are fitted to the split rim
artillery wheels, with good condition wooden spokes painted white
to match the main body. The canvas top is in good condition and it
comes with a complete set of side curtains; ideal for those looking
for adventure in all weather conditions.
The interior is very inviting, with lovely old black leather
showing some light creasing and patina that is consistent with the
remainder of the car. Floors are correctly lined with linoleum up
front and carpet in the rear, all showing in good order.
Instrumentation is of course limited for a car of this era, but the
basics are covered with a period correct Stewart speedometer, an
ammeter and a great Waltham clock adorn the firewall. The large
diameter wood rimmed steering wheel is excellent, with nicely
polished nickel spokes and controls for throttle and spark
advance.
Buick's 165 cubic inch four-cylinder engine is in excellent
condition under the hood. The cylinders are cast in pairs, and the
exposed valvetrain is a fascinating feature of these engines. The
detailing is largely correct with period fittings and plumbing,
with an emphasis on tidy, reliable service. This wonderful old
Buick is a charming and fairly rare example from GM's early days.
It is an enjoyable, honest car that is very well suited for touring
thanks to the sorted mechanicals, full weather equipment, and
charming patina. You'll be enamored with this car's pretty color
combination and classic touring car body style. This Buick is a
great choice for Horseless Carriage Club of America tours, AACA
events, or casual show. The more conventional controls and
sliding-fork gearbox make it more approachable for newcomers to
nickel-era cars, and the addition of electric start makes it easy
to live with for regular use or long-distance journeys.
