For Sale at Auction: 1919 Pierce-Arrow Model B in Monterey, California

Car No. 311206
Engine No. 314-026

Introduced in late 1918 as the marque's post-war flagship, Pierce-Arrow's Series 31 paired a freshly engineered 415-cu-in "Dual Valve" inline-six-four valves per cylinder, detachable heads and dual Delco ignition, rated at approximately 75 horsepower-with patented 1/8-inch ALCOA cast-aluminum coachwork. Each chassis was subjected to multiple dynamometer sessions and a 100-mile test run before delivery, guaranteeing the hushed refinement and rugged reliability that distinguished the Series 31.

Previous research indicates that chassis 311206 was completed in 1919 with its 415 cu-in "Dual Valve" engine installed the following year. It survives in remarkably authentic condition, retaining its cast-aluminum fenders, hood, and lights, as well as the factory tool kit secured in the passenger-side door pocket.

Discovered unrestored on a Central Valley California ranch, the car was acquired in 2007 by noted Pierce-Arrow restorer Patrick Craig of Stockton, California, who commenced a comprehensive, body-off restoration. Mr. Craig deemed the car to retain its original aluminum bodywork, even with the cowl mounted lights, as a late 1919 model. Specialist Richard Bowley rebuilt the original matching-numbers engine and drivetrain in its entirety, while Ken Niminick renewed the Pierce-Arrow in period-correct green over brown leather and fashioned both full and "California" side-curtains. Replated nickel brightwork and concours-quality detailing completed the transformation.

During Tom and JoAnn Martindale's ownership, the restored tourer has proved its roadworthiness, collecting People's Choice honors on Nickel Age and HCCA tours across Oregon, Nevada, and California and garnering awards at Hillsborough and Palo Alto concours events. In 2016 Mosier Restoration further refined the car, dyno-tuning the engine, rebuilding the steering box with new gears and bearings, fitting fresh brakes, and re-coring the radiator to ensure dependable cooling in modern traffic.

Elegant, technically sophisticated, and tour-ready, this Pierce-Arrow offers its next caretaker a rare blend of originality, proven road manners, and concours success seldom encountered in pre-war American motoring.