For Sale: 1961 Lincoln Continental in Lithia Springs, Georgia

When you want the finest, this is THE ONE. This 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible has been restored to the kind of prestation that gets you invited to concourses. So when you demand the best in vintage luxury, power, and prestige, take extra time going over this triple-black icon.

We have a long receipt file documenting over $200k in the frame-off restoration, and we understand exactly why it's worth every penny. After all, this was the year that launched the rolling opulence that is this four-door drop-top. Black is tough to get correct, but actually the key to a top-notch restoration like the one seen here is quite simple. All you need to do is invest heavily in the best paints and a very professional hand applying it. So now every time you take this sunshine-friendly convertible out for a cruise, the daylight radiates off the dark finish like they covered it in a black mirror. And these pictures show how evenly the light rolls off every surface, which means there was obviously plenty invested in the body, too, to make sure this black had the best canvas possible. You can really see the difference that comes from the extra time crafting the restoration. Just look at the way the long sides look nearly seamless over the hallmark suicide doors. Lincoln won major awards for this design, even outside of the car field. After all, in the era of over-done chrome, they integrated it with grace. It's everywhere from the way the front bumper cradles the quad headlights to the trim that crisply defines the full length of the profile. You'll really love the full presentation - right down to the whitewall tires that give this the sophistication of a finely pressed tuxedo.

Open any one of the iconic suicide doors, and you're greeted to an amazing-looking interior. We have receipts for over $43k from the master at OCD Coachworks just for the interior alone. It's the kind of supple feeling upholstery that Lincoln strived to provide when this was brand new. And because this is a true luxury machine, it's loaded with rarities for its time, including a power front seat, power windows, and the smooth action of the power convertible top. You'll even spot the rare Speed Control dial under the dash for an early version of cruise control. There are more great factory features like the AM radio and air conditioning (both are there to complete the display and can be serviced to return the full function.) The steering wheel has an amazing nostalgic feel, and beyond that is a gauge package that looks like it was made by a jeweler.

If you've been admiring the elegant work to get the interior and exterior back to day-one status, then you'll need to check out the engine bay, too. The large 430 cubic-inch MEL V8 is the correct spec for this car. It has the glossy black look of a fresh full restoration, and so even the colorful and correct decals reflect off the dark metal components. It looks like a time capsule back to 1961, and because this package was fully rebuilt, it also runs like a brand new car. As you look at the undercarriage photos, you really begin to understand the full gravity of what a nut-and-bolt restoration brings. And while this has the comprehensive quality that you could park this artwork in your living room, it also is terrific to have out on the road. The long wheelbase helps deliver a Lincoln-worthy smooth ride. Plus, you have the best easy driving features of the time, such as power steering, power brakes, and a three-speed automatic transmission.

This is the year that launched a legend, and this one has been given the big investments to give it legendary status. If you demand the best, you know no other will do.