For Sale: 1912 Metz Antique in St. Louis, Missouri

1912 Metz Model 22 Roadster Loaded With Accessories! This 1912 Metz Model 22 roadster is an older and very well preserved restoration of a complete, authentic and original car. It was likely restored in the 1960s. Unlike today, it was still commonplace to find good, solid examples of brass era cars during these early years of the hobby. Metz introduced its first four-cylinder automobile in 1912 and called it the Model 22, based its horsepower rating. A terrific investment at a affordable price! � 1912 Metz Model 22 Roadster Background: Charles Herman Metz was one of the great, American industrial pioneers of late 19th and early 20th Century. By 1897, he was the founder of the Waltham Manufacturing Company and was selling over 15,000 bicycles a year. In 1898, his company began building self-propelled vehicles and motorcycles. The company continued to evolve and by 1909, Charles Metz was building automobiles under his own name from a factory in Waltham, Massachusetts. Initially powered by two-cylinder engines, Metz introduced its first four-cylinder automobile in 1912 and called it the Model 22, based its horsepower rating. The car could be purchased as a kit or as a fully assembled vehicle. Both were offered only as a roadster and built on a 90 wheelbase chassis. The fully assembled roadster sold for 495.00 in 1912. 1912 Metz Model 22 Roadster Info: This 1912 Metz Model 22 roadster is an older and very well preserved restoration of a complete, authentic and original car. It was likely restored in the 1960s. Unlike today, it was still commonplace to find good, solid examples of brass era cars during these early years of the hobby. Today, many brass era cars have been assembled from a variety of new and original parts, however, this 1912 Metz appears to have always been a complete and well cared for example. Although its early history is unknown, this Metz Model 22 roadster spent a good portion of its later years as part of aauto museum on the east coast. Later, it became part of another well-known, east coast collection of fine brass era automobiles. The older restoration has since mellowed and the car now has that charming look that collectors of brass era automobiles desire. The paint is extremely presentable and shines with an appropriate soft glow that one would expect from a fifty-year old paint job. The interior is black leather and has also appropriately aged itself while still being in very good condition. The bottom cushion in the Mother-in-Law seat has had repair years ago.The folding top assembly is also in good condition and raises and lowers with ease. The simple body consists of a scuttle cowl, which flows nicely into a double-bucket seat assembly. This Metz really resembles a speedster or racer of the 1910 period with its exposed oval gas tank and rear mounted mother in law seat. The long flowing fenders and short running boards add to the sporty nature of this early automobile. All of these components appear to be original and are in solid condition. The steering wheel has separated over time. The car is well appointed with brass acetylene headlamps, matching sidelights, a rear mounted taillight, a brass running board mount carbide generator and bulb horn. All of these brass accessory items are period correct and in good, original condition. The original radiator retains its original Metz emblem as well as a 1950s era car club plaque. Under the hood, this Metz retains its original, four-cylinder, L-head engine, which is clearly stamped with the VIN number of 16610 on the aluminum crankcase. The mono-bloc engine features exposed valves and a removable cylinder head with the word Metz embossed. A period, Bosch high-tension magneto supplies the power for the ignition. For reliable driving, a later Model T Ford carburetor has been fitted. The engine is coupled to its original friction drive transmission assembly that is controlled by the vertical lever inside the body. The friction drive assembly transmits power to a transfer case assembly, which continues to send the power to the rear wheels via dual, chain drive. The car still retains its original 30 x 3 wood wheels with clincher rims and the tires are older reproductions. All of the mechanical components appear to be in very good condition and close inspection shows they are free from wear or damage. When you carefully study these components, it becomes further evident that this was a low mileage, unworn car prior to its restoration. Although Metz automobiles were built from 1909 through 1920, it is believe that less than 100 examples exist today. According to records, about ten, 1912 Model 22 roadsters have survived. Of those, this example is likely to be one of the most authentic of the known survivors. This Metz is a sporty and good-looking brass- era roadster that will certainly make a statement whether on display at a show or in a collection. Of course, it will also be a great candidate for Horseless Carriage Club tours and other brass era motoring events.