Vehicle Description
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.