This vehicle has been professionally appraised and listed at the appraised value. Therefore it is priced at a firm price. This vehicle is very rare and believed to be one of 7 examples available today. More detail is available on this vehicle further down the description.
The Lincoln K series (also called the Lincoln Model K, in line with Ford nomenclature) is a luxury vehicle that was produced by the Lincoln Motor Company. The second motor line produced by the company, the Model K was developed from the Model L, including a modernized chassis on a longer wheelbase.[2] In 1931, Lincoln introduced a V-12 engine, becoming a feature of the company for nearly 20 years.
One of the most exclusive vehicles produced in the United States during the 1930s, the Model K competed against the Cadillac V-12 and V-16, Packard Twin Six, Chrysler Imperial, Pierce-Arrow Model 53 and the Duesenberg Model J. Alongside multiple body configurations produced by Lincoln in its Detroit assembly facility, bare chassis were provided for coachbuilders for bespoke bodywork (in line with Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Bugatti).
The Lincoln Model KB, the company's first V-12 model with its 150-hp, 448-cu. in. engine, has been widely heralded as one of the most beautiful and finest products they have ever produced. Among the most sporting offerings on this landmark chassis was the convertible roadster by LeBaron, notable for its distinctively light lines, including a convertible top "notched" to fall back flush with the rear deck, on a 145-in. wheelbase chassis. Around 35 examples were produced on 1933 chassis, and only seven of them remain in existence today.
The car offered here was originally delivered to Long Island on 20 April 1933. In 1946 it was acquired from a junkyard for $250 by Joseph E. Joseph of North Bennington, Vermont, who installed the present engine, no. KB2597. Mr. Joseph would subsequently become one of the charter members of the Classic
Car Club of America. Following restoration, the Lincoln received CCCA Senior badge no. 283 in 1968, and was among the automobiles chosen to illustrate Stan Grayson's article, "Lincoln's Grand KB," in Volume 14, Number 4 of Automobile Quarterly.
Following Mr. Joseph's passing, the Lincoln was sold in 1990 to Albert Nault of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, a well-known Ford and Lincoln collector, in whose ownership it remained until recently; it was occasionally shown over the years, including an appearance at Eyes on Design in 1999. The Lincoln's older restoration has mellowed but is still very attractive, in a rich combination of dark blue and black lacquer, with a tan leather interior that shows only slight patina, and an excellent tan convertible top.
This is a beautiful example of one of the most distinctive, valuable Lincolns of the Classic Era - respected and loved by enthusiasts for decades.
Different sources disagree on the exact number, but it is widely believed the 35-37 LeBaron KB roadsters were built in 1933, and seven examples are known to exist today. Built from 1932-1934, 1933 is the rarest year for KB V12 LeBaron Roadsters, 1932 are the most common, at 112 produced, and in 1934 45 were made.
The engine area is beautifully presented throughout. Correct Stromberg EE-23 carb with correct air canister. All engine block, intake and exhaust manifold surfaces are beautifully finished. Correct Autolite distributor, model IGM4002A. New cooling systems hoses with period clamps. The generator is a correct Autolite reproduction unit with no stampings on the tag. Autolite starter, tag MAO4005/IN. All wiring in the engine area is period correct cloth wrapped and shows in excellent condition throughout. Steering column and box show in restored condition, with no cosmetic flaws. Radiator finish shows in excellent condition with no staining or issues observed. A Lincoln KB body tag, stamped 2243 was observed affixed to the cowl. Transmission number KB2131. The presentation throughout the engine area is impressive.
The interior is nicely presented, but is showing some wear and tear perfectly in keeping with the estimated age of restoration. Carpeting shows very nicely, with minimal wear and tear observed. Interior trim shows in excellent condition with no damage observed. Steering wheel shows no wear or damage. Wood fascia on the dashboard is beginning to show some wear in the veneer. Some of the switchgear is On August 20th, 2019
The exterior presents as an old high-quality restoration which is showing its age in a variety of ways. The chrome shows moderate tarnishing and patina on many pieces. The black lacquer finish on the fenders is showing notable areas of cracking in several places. Additional pictures will be posted as available.
