1953 BUICK SKYLARK CONVERTIBLE

Details

One-of-only-1,690 Skylarks produced in 1953. Created to mark Buick's 50th anniversary, the Skylark Roadmaster joined the Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta and Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado as top-of-the-line, limited-production specialty convertibles introduced in 1953 by General Motors to promote its design leadership. Of the three, the Skylark's run of 1,690 units proved the most successful. It was an amazing sales feat, considering the car's 1953 list price was slightly in excess of $5,000, about the

average cost of a new home. The 1953 Skylark was handmade in many respects. Only stampings for the hood, trunk lid and a portion of the convertible tub were shared with the standard Roadmaster and Super convertibles. A more streamlined look was reinforced by cutting the windshield almost 3' shorter, and lowering the side windows and convertible top frame proportionately. Authentic wire wheels were produced by Kelsey-Hayes, chromed everywhere except the plated and painted 'Skylark' center emblem. The car featured Buick's new 322ci 5.3-liter Nailhead V8 in place of the automaker's longstanding straight-8 with a 12-volt electrical system. The model marked the debut of highly stylized cutout wheel openings. The full gamut of power accessories were standard, like Dynaflow automatic transmission, power steering, brakes, top, windows and front seat. There is even a power antenna for the Selectronic signal-seeking radio. Purchased in February 1953 by millionaire George Whittell of Reno, NV, the car was given to his nurse after his death. It was stored at Harrah's for many years, and has its original paint and no rust. In 2004 a total frame-off restoration commenced and was completed in time for the vehicle to earn a Junior First Place at the AACA spring meet in 2006. The expense of the restoration was $250,000; restoration receipts, photos and history are included with the sale.