Vehicle Description
It is likely that only a handful of the staunchest of motoring
enthusiasts would be able to name an automobile manufacturer
besides Minerva or FN that originated in Belgium. But with
influence from its neighbors in France and Germany, each with
well-established and rich motoring heritage, a handful of Belgian
manufacturers did sprout up in the pre-WWII era, mainly to serve
the home market. Minerva is best known for their extravagant luxury
motorcars of the highest quality, but Automobiles Imp�ria was a
similarly prominent manufacturer in Belgium, surviving in various
forms into the post-war era. In 1906, Automobiles Imp�ria was
established by Adrien Piedboeuf, who had previously experimented
with small cars and motorcycles built under his own name. The badge
depicted the crown of the Emperor Charlemagne, which was a fitting
symbol to go with the name Imp�ria. The first car produced under
the new company was a relatively conventional four-cylinder car,
with the option of shaft or chain drive. It was a simple car and
was sold mainly among Piedboeuf's friends and family. In 1908,
Piedboeuf made a huge leap forward and purchased a large factory
from the defunct Pieper arms and automobile manufacturer. He
enlisted the assistance of a German engineer named Paul Henze who
would soon expand the offerings to include a smaller 3-liter model
below the existing 4.9 liter 24/30CV and a massive 9.9 liter
50/60CV. It seemed that Imp�ria struggled to find their footing, as
the model range was changing constantly. In 1909, the pendulum
swung in the opposite direction and Henze designed a small 1,764 cc
Monobloc four-cylinder rated at 12CV. Smaller engines were becoming
fashionable and the model range was soon quickly revamped to
include the 1.7 along with a 1.8 liter 12/14CV model and 2.6 liter
14/16CV model. Imperia would continue on in various forms, merging
with Automobiles Springuel in 1912, and eventually adding assets
from fellow Belgian manufacturers Metallurgique, Nagant, and
Excelsior. Along the way, they had pioneered the use of four-wheel
brakes and overhead valves in Belgium, and worked on development of
advanced features such as torsion bar suspension and even an
automatic transmission. Finally, in 1935 Imp�ria would acquire
Minerva and automobile production continued in various forms (even
building cars under license for other firms) until 1949. This
delightful 1909 Imp�ria is a Monobloc four-cylinder 12CV model
wearing unique and captivating 2-seat roadster coachwork. Most
recently out of a private collection, it was once part of the large
and eclectic collection of Claude Imhoof of Switzerland where it
was displayed from 1987 through 2016. Presented with an attractive
patina and with numerous interesting fittings and accessories, this
is a truly fascinating example from this once-prominent Belgian
motoring name. The unusual body features a two-place runabout-style
cockpit with a turtle-deck style rear that incorporates the fuel
tank a unique folding dicky seat. The slender flowing wings and
rear-mounted help give a sporty appeal to the coachwork. Paintwork
is older but generally sound and numerous interesting details
abound including bullet-style brass headlamps, Trier & Martin cowl
lamps, SWF semaphores (perhaps a later addition) and a fabulous
brass Boa Constrictor Horn. The fittings and brass accessories are
in a condition that is consistent with the rest of the body - being
care worn and patinated, yet overflowing with charm and appeal. The
cockpit is trimmed in brown leather, with good quality upholstery
on the seats and door cards. Similar materials and quality are
found on the folding dicky seat. The large buggy top features good,
sound upholstery and a very good original frame constructed of wood
and wrought iron. The stout four-cylinder engine still wears the
original A.G. Piedboeuf brass tag, a period Zenith carburetor and
is typically basic and robust for the era. It appears in good
order, cosmetically in keeping with the overall appearance. Some
mechanical recommissioning will be required prior to enjoying this
car on the road, however with some care and attention it has the
potential to become a most unique brass-era tour car. Given its
rarity and distinguished appearance, it would certainly be a
conversation starter at any number of shows and concours events.
Packed with interesting details, this rare and fascinating Imp�ria
would be most welcome in any collection of brass cars or with fans
of motorcars from similarly esoteric lost marques.
