- Quality Bliss Surrey "CDO" replica from 1958
- Features electric starting and lighting
- Previously registered for the road
The iconic curved-dash Oldsmobile is world-renowned, as it was even
in its day. Although Oldsmobile began building increasingly large
and expensive cars, the natty little "CDO" remained in production
through 1906 and the single-cylinder Model F as late as 1907. Not
surprisingly, curved-dash replicas have been popular projects
through the years. One of the best quality re-creations is the
Bliss Surrey, built by the E.W. Bliss Company of Canton, Ohio. Just
500 were built, all in a six-month period of 1958.
Engines were four- or eight-horsepower Cushman units, driving
through a semi-automatic clutch, two-speed transmission with
reverse, and chain drive to the rear wheels. A fringed Surrey top,
rear seat, speedometer, and car cover were all optional.
This Bliss Surrey is upholstered in buttoned black vinyl and is
fitted with the rear seat cushion, which offers a rather awkward
seating position. It has both electric starting and lighting,
although the latter is quite simple. Cosmetically restored at some
point, the vehicle now shows some age, particularly the
undercarriage. It should be relatively straightforward to clean and
detail. It has previously been inspected and registered in
Arkansas; other owners report no problems registering and titling
Bliss Surreys for use on the road under suitable traffic
conditions. It is certainly ideal for parade use in any
antique-car-loving community. Curved-Dash Olds replicas are
immediately recognizable, and who doesn't love a parade?To view
this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please
visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf19.
