Vehicle Description
Sold: While Packard has always been synonymous with style and quality, in 1929 the 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton by Dietrich took it a step further. With an impressive 145 inch wheelbase (5 inches longer than the already exclusive 640 Phaeton) Packard commissioned famed coachbuilder of the 1920s and 1930s, Mr. Raymond Dietrich to design a semi-custom body to grace their chassis. The 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton is instantly recognizable by the keen eye, differing greatly from the standard in house body styles offered by Packard that year, as well as being adorned by the Dietrich tag located discretely on the front cowl. Powered by its 384 cubic inch straight eight, these automobiles are very capable performers.
This example has a solid history dating back to 1960 when notable collector Courtland Cross purchased it out of Rhode Island for $1,500, and then drove it home to Worchester Massachusetts. As was common with many dual cowl phaetons, the rear cowl had been separated from the automobile, however an original was sourced to fabricate a factory correct replacement. Three years later at the Classic Car Club of America's Grand Classic in Morristown New Jersey, the car scored 95 points, and went on to score an even more impressive 96.5 points two years later. Under Mr. Cross's ownership this 645 dual cowl remained active, participating in Glidden Tours through the Finger Lakes of New York, and in West Virginia. In 1971 this automobile was sold to Mr. John Mickles of then Portland Maine for the impressive price of $25,000, where it remained until it was sold his estate in 1986.
Purchased by Mr. Jack Donnelley then of Wolfeboro New Hampshire, he commissioned an engine re-build, including new pistons, valves, and crankshaft by a respected Packard specialist. Cosmetic touches included some paint blending, re-chroming, a new canvas top, and the addition of wind wings to the second windscreen, which remain on the automobile to this day. Two years later, in 1988, it was sold to Mr. Daniel Sargent former managing partner at Salomon brothers, and car collector. Driven sparingly, it remained in his collection until his passing in 1997, and later sold by his estate in 1998. The new owner then shipped it to England where it lived for two years before being offered by Christies Auction House at the Lyndhurst Property Sale in 2000.
With its current collector owner of 16 years, it has been driven regularly, and maintained with no expense spared. The color scheme of its dark green body, over black fenders, accented by its green wire wheels remains as tasteful as when it was restored. Tan leather interior plays nicely and front seats show nice amount of patina, with the back seats appearing hardly used. The wood veneer dashboard and door trim is in very nice condition, and the drivers compartment is nicely complimented by an onyx horn button and ship knob; both period factory accessories.
Fitted with senior trip lights, grill guard, iconic “sliding boy” hood ornament, and Packard rear trunk with fitted luggage, this 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton by Dietrich has all the desired accessories without being overdone. In the rear of the car for added safety, two period correct tail lamps and brackets have been installed, and are easily removed if desired by its next caretaker. With good history and notable collector ownership, this example has aged extremely well, and remains mechanically strong with relatively low millage since its mechanical overhaul in 1986. To ensure reliability, this automobile underwent a full service in April of 2016, with all fluids changed, and all systems thoroughly gone over, from the functioning of the brake system, to the functioning of the Jaeger 8 day clock.
Recognized by the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) as a full classic, the 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton by Dietrich is considered one of the most coveted semi-custom bodied Packards of the 1920s period.
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