Vehicle Description
1917 Metz Model 25 Touring
The Metz Company was a pioneer brass era automobile maker
established by Charles Herman Metz in Waltham, Massachusetts, from
ca.1908 to 1922. C. H. Metz began in business in 1886 making
bicycle parts, and in 1893 formed the Waltham Manufacturing Company
with Herbert L. Thompson, Elmer G. Howe and Frank L. Howe. Later
the firm developed designs for motorized vehicles. Although Metz
was not the first to offer a kit car, (Dyke and Sears predated Metz
with do-it-your-self high-wheelers), Metz did offer the first known
kit automobile on the installment plan, known as the Metz Plan. The
buyer would buy 14 groups or packages of parts for $27.00 which
would be put together with the plans and tools supplied, or a
factory-assembled automobile could be bought for $600.00. This plan
was in effect until 1911 when it became impractical to compete with
a dealer-supplied model "T" Ford. By 1922, the company was in dire
financial condition and was taken over by the Waltham National
Bank. They reorganized the company and renamed it the Motor
Manufacturers Incorporated of Waltham. This successor company
produced an Automobile called the Waltham Six, which sold for
$2,450.00 and was produced in 1922 only. This last desperate
attempt to save the Metz Co. failed. Charles Metz filed for
bankruptcy in August 1922.
A museum quality restoration for this beautiful and rare example
now bedazzling our halls here at Classic Auto Mall. Rare by the
numbers, as only about 4,300 examples were built of the Model 25,
and that accounts for all body styles.
Exterior
Automobiling was in its growth spurt in the 19-teens with over
485,000 of the world's 606,000 cars having been produced in the
good old US of A. With its simply designed "tub" this 4-door
convertible touring sedan is straight, and the paint is maroon on
the body which presents nicely. Curvaceous fenders attached to long
running boards adorn each side of this tub and are sprayed in
black. These running boards have highly lacquered wood inlays for
the steps which highlight the black steel perfectly. The long hood
in its cowling style is fronted by a maroon radiator surround, Metz
badging, and brass radiator cap. 2 simple large brass trimmed can
headlights flank the grille, and float above the front fenders.
Black canvas makes up the foldable roof over the passengers and
shows without any flaws. In the back attached to the body tub is a
single spare tire and a small round taillight decorates the
driver's rear fender. 30" glossy wood spoke wheels adorn the 4
corners and are shod in 30x3.5" blackwall rubber.
Interior
Also beautifully restored with black smooth vinyl in very good
condition covering the door panels with beautiful oak top sills. A
wonderful glossy oak fronted dash curves up to the front windshield
and in front of the driver is a utilitarian speedometer/odometer
and ammeter all in perfect condition sitting behind a walnut wood
steering wheel. Heavily tufted black tuck and roll vinyl covers the
wrap around bench seats both front and rear with the rear of the
front seat tub being finished in body matching maroon. Weathered
oak planks cover the floor upfront, and the same is seen in the
rear, albeit with less wear. This interior is definitely all
buttoned up, well done, and in very nicely presenting
condition.
Drivetrain
This is where things get interesting, featuring a 188.7ci L-head 4
cylinder. This aqua painted mill is fed by a 1bbl carburetor, and a
direct-drive shaft leads rearward. New ideas were in vogue during
the early days of motoring and Metz was far ahead of its time. In
place of a traditional transmission, or even a planetary style
transmission we see a simple steel disc. A drive wheel, actuated by
the shift lever above is designed to move inward and outward on the
steel disc thus increasing rotational speeds sent to the 4.00
geared rear axle via the single drive chain. A precursor to the CVT
transmissions of today if you will. Absolutely one of the nicest
drivetrain restorations I've seen come through the doors here at
Classic Auto Mall. With supple hoses and wires this engine is in
near Concours condition.
Undercarriage
A straight total rust-free environment under here with jet black
metal with a light coating of dust and patina from age. This car
was a pre 4-wheel braked car, only sporting mechanical rear drum
brakes. All leaf spring suspension, and all amazingly shiny.
Driveability
Unfortunately this car does not start. Records of an appraisal in
2019 showed it to be in running condition then, however our
consignor conveyed to us an issue with the magneto has crept up and
now the engine will not fire.
A beautifully restored Concours quality automobile, and a rare bird
to boot. One can only surmise the number of examples left, let
alone ones in this condition. Some TLC is required but in the end,
you will have a Brass Era automobile with a well restored engine
and essentially the great great grandpa to modern transmissions of
today that will be a standout at any show.
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.
