Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria 1933, Estados Unidos

Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria 1933, Estados Unidos
Fotografia

By the time of the introduction of 1933’s Tenth Series, Packard remained the choice of American aristocracy yet was beginning to incorporate welcome hints of flash and dash into its lines. The year’s models incorporated classically swept fender lines, but now the fenders were skirted, neatly hiding the mechanical components beneath. A graceful vee’d radiator shell hinted at the power flexed by the top-of-the-line V-12, now in its second season, built on a new tapered frame, and featuring such mechanical refinements as a single dry-plate clutch and automatic choke.

The Dietrich-designed convertible Victoria offered here is identified by its original data tag as vehicle number 647-25, or the 15th built in this style on the 142-inch-wheelbase 1005 chassis. Its original brass Dietrich body tag indicates body number 6274; according to research by a previous owner, it is one of four known authentic survivors of the style no. 3050 Convertible Victoria. Examination of the mechanical components—engine, chassis, axle, and steering box—shows that they are numbered relatively near to one another, in typical Packard fashion, and indicates they are most likely original to this car.

The car was delivered new by Packard Motor Car Company of New York in the Bronx on 12 August 1933. According to information on file, it was sold by its original owner in 1946 to Thomas Lester, the successful Ohio businessman known as the founder of the Lester Tire Company and an early enthusiast. Mr. Lester retained ownership of this car for 22 years before selling it to another well-known collector of the time, Benny Goldflies, who continued the tradition of longtime ownership. Eighteen years passed before he, too, sold the beloved Packard, which was purchased by Newt Withers of California.

In Mr. Withers’ 25-year ownership, the Packard received a complete restoration by the renowned Joe Cruces, partial records for which are included in the file, including research on original Packard materials, colors, and equipment. Chrome work was performed by Jerry Hjeltness’s shop in California. The grand Packard was shown following the restoration, being invited into the Packards International Circle of Champions in 2010 with 245/250 points, as well as being shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2011.

Its appearance was subsequently updated with the installation of a new black top and blackwall tires. After being acquired by the previous owner, the engine was thoroughly tuned. Additional work performed included detailing of the interior and exterior, chassis detailing, and adjustments to the doors. The Packard was subsequently acquired by the current owner several years ago, who continued to show the car with great success, including winning its class at the 2018 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Most recently, the Packard was shown at the Elegance at Hershey in June 2019.

The Twelve continues to present beautifully, in its rich black hue with a complementary scarlet interior. The upholstery and wood-grain trim are immaculate, and the paint is show-quality in its rich, deep shine. An extremely good-driving car that is in excellent condition, it is described as running cool in virtually all temperatures, and it would be as delightful on the road as at the numerous concours d’elegance to which it will likely be invited.

Of the four surviving Twelve Convertible Victorias of the Tenth Series, this one, with such a short ownership history, is indisputably pure, authentic, and properly finished down to the last detail. It is an outstanding, show-worthy example of one of the grandest of the great Packards, and it would be a standout in any important collection.