To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Auburn
Fall event, 3 - 5 September 2020.
Estimate:
$80,000 - $100,000
- Offered from the Roadmaster Collection
- Top-of-the-line Buick from 1953
- Older frame-off restoration
- 322 cubic-inch V-8; automatic transmission
- Finished in Majestic White over red and white leather
- One of just 1,690 built
The Skylark was first displayed as a General Motors Motorama car in
1952, and it was essentially a factory-built "sport custom" based
on the Roadmaster Convertible platform. The windshield was chopped
four inches, while the beltline was cut down and notched at the
rear fender line, and the rear-wheel cutouts were rounded and
raised to match those in the front fenders. These were all
techniques being used by California's customizers during the same
period. The model was noteworthy for lacking Buick's trademark
"ventiports" on the front fenders, and also introducing the
marque's first modern overhead-valve V-8, also called the
"nailhead," which could produce a capable 188 hp and 300 pound-feet
of torque.
A production version of the Skylark was introduced the following
year together with the Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Fiesta,
with each limited-production top-of-the-line model representing the
very best of 1950's styling and luxury. Celebrating Buick's 50th
anniversary, the Skylark was essentially a hand-built car
customized for each new owner with a $5,000 price tag helping to
keep sales to just 1,690 units. While the Skylark name would
continue as a limited-production model for 1954 and reappear in
Buick's hierarchy for decades, the 1953 model is generally
considered the most prized amongst collectors as a heralded member
of the "Triple Crown" showcasing what many consider to be Harley
Earl's finest production convertible design.
Inside, the near-vertical dash features chrome trim lines paired
with a distinctive checker-like pattern that extends into the door
panels. The steering wheel's horn cap depicts a 1953 Buick, a
delightful reminder of the automaker's past. A similar icon can be
found on the front bumper Befitting its luxurious status, the
Skylark's interior was commonly trimmed in upscale leather and
typically boasted then-rare accessories such as power windows.
Finished in Majestic White with a white convertible top over an
interior trimmed in red and white leather, the car wears its
Earl-penned curves, chrome, and details exceptionally well after a
frame-off restoration performed around 1994 at a cost reportedly
exceeding $250,000. The Skylark is equipped with power windows and
steering. The interior features a clock and radio, and a red boot
cover conceals the convertible top when down. Powered by Buick's
Fireball V-8 linked to a Dynaflow automatic transmission, the older
restoration now shows patina expected from occasional use, none of
which detracts from its show-stopping presence. The Kelsey-Hayes
forty-spoke wire wheels wrapped in wide whitewall tires complete
the look.
Bearing the unmistakable signature of Harley Earl, this 1953 Buick
Skylark is a rare icon of style that will instantly transport its
next caretaker back to the height of General Motors luxury and
design. To view this car and others currently consigned to this
auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af20.
