Vehicle Description
The Ford Model T is a machine that ranks as one of the most
significant and important inventions of the 20th century. Henry
Ford's development of the moving assembly line was so significant
that he is oft compared to the likes of Alexander Graham Bell and
Eli Whitney as the most influential names in American Industrial
history. The Model T is likely the only car to feature in our grade
school history books. Of course, most of the focus in history is
given to the way the Model T was built and how Henry Ford
revolutionized mass manufacture. However, when viewed apart from
the ingenious production methods, the Model T proved to be a truly
remarkable and versatile machine. Because he was able to build so
many so quickly, the price was low and suddenly the automobile was
accessible to millions who never dreamed of owning one before. Its
popularity spawned an aftermarket industry that allowed the T to be
adapted to virtually anything: From racing cars to farm implements,
the Model T could do it all. Ford was enough in tune with his
customer needs to offer a wide variety of bodies to meet demand.
Touring cars and Depot Hacks moved people, while the Pickup and
Commercial Roadster offered versatility for tradesmen. The
Commercial Roadster was a simple, two seat affair with a flat deck
behind the cockpit. Curiously, a "mother-in-law seat" was standard
equipment; mounted atop a small storage trunk on the rear platform.
The primary difference between a standard roadster and commercial
roadster was the extended flat platform behind the cabin of the
latter, rather than a curved trunk. The vestigial seat and trunk
were often removed and discarded to make way for pickup boxes or
any variety of attachments to suit the job at hand. As such, intact
survivors are quite rare today. This 1912 Model T Commercial
Roadster is a relatively early example from the height of the brass
era. The green and black paint scheme is correct for the year, as
it predates Henry Ford's shift to all-black Model Ts of later
years. Unlike the majority of Model Ts which have been restored by
hobbyists, this example wears a professional quality restoration
and presents in absolutely lovely condition with excellent paint
work, gorgeous quality brass and concours level detailing.
Equipment includes brass Ford-script E&J headlamps and cowl
lamps, a gorgeous brass radiator shell, polished brass horn and a
beautiful acetylene tank on the running board. Brass step plates
adorn the running boards, with a single right-side plate correctly
placed for rear seat access. The driver's compartment is
exquisitely detailed with beautifully executed black leather
upholstery on the seat, a correct Ford-script rubber mat and
beautifully finished wood on the cowl panel. The mother in law seat
is trimmed in the same high quality black leather as up front, and
it sits atop the small utility trunk that now houses an assortment
of spares. Weather protection comes via the full, dual pane
windscreen, which folds for fair weather use, and the folding black
leather top. The top fit is excellent and it is well detailed with
correct brass hardware. Pyramid-pattern floor boards adorn the rear
platform as original and the impressive woodwork is indicative of
the care and attention that went into the restoration. While a
Model T engine is an exercise in minimalism, this example is
nonetheless very well presented and detailed. It is exceptionally
clean, showing little use since the restoration was completed, and
the engine is detailed with appropriate fittings and hardware.
Finishes on the chassis are also excellent, with the undercarriage
appearing incredibly clean and tidy. Along with its many other
"firsts" the Model T can be credited with forming the foundation of
the collector car hobby. With over 15 million built over the course
of 19 years, there is certainly no shortage of cars to choose from.
However, it is the early brass cars such as this that command
attention from serious collectors. This example's relatively rare
configuration and outstanding restoration set it apart from the
usual. It remains in lovely show-quality condition and is fully
usable and ready for enjoyment.