Vehicle Description
FROM THE MISSOULA AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION: Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale WITHOUT RESERVE and SOLD to the highest bidder January 19th - 22nd, 2017 at Russo and Steele's 17th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Please contact us for more information.
Named Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year for 1973, Chevrolet's second-generation Monte Carlo delivered fresh new styling, European-inspired ride and handling, and strong V-8 power. In particular, its sculpted bodysides recalled the unforgettable styling of the Rolls-Royce Silver Clouds of the 1950s and 1960s, yet with a decidedly modern twist. Naturally, the swoopy new Monte Carlo was perfect base material for a modern re-interpretation of the beautiful coachbuilt cars of the past. Florida's Jon Tedesco, Dean Giliard, and Lenny Borger captured the interest of the South Florida Chevrolet Dealers' Association for a Rolls-Royce influenced Monte Carlo that would draw buyers into Chevrolet showrooms. Featuring a prominent, Rolls-Royce style grille, plus front and rear treatments, hood ornaments, and "Custom Cloud" emblems in the Rolls-Royce vein, the Monte Carlo was transformed into a chic and luxurious statement.
Since it was discovered that Rolls-Royce had never bothered to patent their iconic grille design in the USA, Tedesco's attorney advised him to file a US design patent on his new car. A new company, "Custom Cloud Motors, Inc.," was organized to build the car, with plans made to produce it in quantity. Patterns were made and parts were sourced, including virtual copies of the Rolls-Royce grille, "Flying Lady" style mascots, emblems, and a host of other necessary items, plus marketing materials. The first Custom Cloud was displayed at the Miami International Motor Show in late 1975. After traveling to California to scout potential production locations to complete the demanding conversion work, Tedesco was contacted by Car and Driver magazine, asking him to send a Custom Cloud to London, England. The first completed car was sold to Diana Marks of England, so Custom Cloud Motors paid for shipment there. Car and Driver had Charles Fox write an article on the car and local photographer Humphrey Sutton photographed it. Driven around the London streets, the Custom Cloud created a sensation and Sutton actually delivered it to Mrs. Marks. The article was written during late-December 1975 and the Custom Cloud graced the cover of the March, 1976 issue of Car and Driver.
The second car was built in January 1976 and exhibited at the New York Auto Show, where the Custom Cloud project's fate was sealed. There, the car was viewed by Rolls-Royce executives, who soon became outraged when they learned of Tedesco's U.S. patent. A trademark-infringement lawsuit was soon filed by Rolls-Royce, and quickly brought the Custom Cloud project to an abrupt halt. Now, some 37 years later, is your chance to own a piece of history. Offered is in very good condition, this original Custom Cloud prototype includes its original 1st Edition grille, the original "Flying Lady" mascot, and real Rolls-Royce taillights! An original example as made by Jon Tedesco's Custom Cloud Motors of Florida before the lawsuit was filed, it is fully loaded with a V-8 engine, automatic transmission, power windows, power doors, power steering, and power brakes. It is reported by the Consignor to drive very well, with engine and transmission functioning wonderfully and without leaks. The air conditioning even works great but could nonetheless use a little recharging. The interior is in good order and the tires are almost new. Receipts for some minor recent repairs and maintenance are included. Fascinating, stylish, and ready to enjoy, this early Custom Cloud is now offered without reserve and it will surely draw admirers everywhere.
