Estimate:
$110,000 - $130,000
- One of 1,690 produced in 1953
- Older restoration that presents beautifully
- Power windows, locks, antenna, and seat
- Period-correct finishes inside and out
A defining event of 1950s American car culture was General Motors'
traveling Motorama. It was a truly extraordinary, no-expense-spared
display of dazzling technology, stunning styling, and modern
American ingenuity. The series of dramatic styling exercises by the
legendary Harley Earl captivated the public, but most of the
designs were never made for sale. For 1953, though, GM made an
exception.
The company offered three of the previous year's "dream cars" in
limited production numbers to the lucky few who could afford the
staggering price tags and who had the personal influence required
to secure one. The three models available were the Cadillac Series
62 Eldorado, the Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta, and the model offered here,
the Buick Roadmaster Skylark.
Among those who favor mid-century American classics, few carry the
prestige of the Buick Skylark. Revered in the period for its
dramatic styling, luxurious appointments, powerful engine, and
limited production numbers, the Skylark remains a highly desirable
and exceptionally collectable automobile to this day. Cars such as
the convertible offered here give us just a glimpse of what life
was like for successful men and women in the early years of the Pax
Americana, when car culture went into overdrive on the burgeoning
interstate highway system.
This Skylark convertible is an exceptional example of what many
consider to be Harley Earl's finest production convertible design.
It has been comprehensively restored some years ago and presents
beautifully today in period-correct Mandarin Red Poly with a
matching red-and-white interior. A contrasting white convertible
top makes for an elegant combination, though it seems almost a
shame to drive this car in any other manner than with the top down
on a sunny day. The Kelsey-Hayes forty-spoke wire wheels wrapped in
wide whitewall tires complete the look. With ample power from the
322-cubic-inch "Nailhead" V-8, power everything, and extensive
chrome, this is Americana at its very finest, a work of art from a
time when gas was cheap and the highways were wide-open.
Due to its limited production status, just 1,690 examples were
built, making this an uncommon car indeed. This car is an ideal and
unique choice for showing, driving, or even just admiring as a work
of mid-century design. Offering easy cruising, handsome good looks,
and exclusivity, this Skylark convertible is a fitting choice for
any post-war collection.To view this car and others currently
consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf19.
