To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Arizona
event, 17 - 18 January 2019.
Estimate:
$100,000 - $125,000
- One of just 836 Skylarks produced for 1954
- Striking Condor Yellow over yellow and black leather
interior
- No-expense-spared restoration, 2014-2016
- Never shown publicly since
Reputedly named after a song of the "Swing Era," the
limited-production Skylark convertible made its second and final
appearance for 1954 having been introduced just one year earlier as
part of GM's Motorama trio - along with the Cadillac Eldorado and
Oldsmobile Fiesta. The 322-cu.-in. V-8 with four-barrel carburetor
was upgraded to 200 hp for the model year and styling was changed
to coincide with the rest of the Buick lineup. Like the original,
the 1954 model boasted the trademark cutout wheel wells and side
spear trim, setting it apart from lesser Buicks. Skylarks featured
unique chromed rear tailfins that contained the taillights, a
styling feature that had never been seen before.
The Skylark name disappeared until 1961 when it would reappear
mid-year on Buick's first-ever compact car; somewhat ironic having
gone from Buick's most expensive to its least expensive car.
Nevertheless, it was telling of the power of the Skylark name. Just
836 were produced for 1954 making them among the most prized Buicks
for collectors today.
Resplendent in dazzling Condor Yellow over matching yellow and
black two-tone Jenkins Interior leather upholstery, this is
arguably among the finest examples extant of the 1954 Skylark. A
photo-documented rotisserie restoration by Dan Laughlin of Dan
Laughlin Customs, Anderson, California, was completed after the car
was purchased from Beverly Kibler of Redding, California, in June
2008. It is evidenced by a detailed book for the new owner,
including receipts totaling in excess of $222,000 spent from
2014-2016.
Since restoration, it has been used minimally, though exercised
regularly and stored in a climate-controlled environment. It has
been detailed annually to maintain its fresh-from-restoration
appearance and quality. It has never been shown since restoration,
offering its new owner an excellent opportunity to be invited to
the some of the finest shows and concours.To view this car and
others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az19.
