Shipping & Logistics: For UK-based buyers, the vendor has secured competitive, fixed-rate shipping via VA Auto Traders: £1,295 for cars and £595 for motorcycles. This offer applies to all vehicles sold by this vendor during the current ‘Blaauwbank Collection’ auctions.

Global Shipping: International delivery options are also available. Please contact [email protected] for a bespoke expert quote.

Highlights

Sought-after Opal Tourer version of the Seven Range
Only three former registered keepers in its 88-year history
Dry state car from the arid Karoo region
Recent cylinder-head rebuild and annual service
Original car that has never been stripped down or abandoned, we are told

The Appeal

This 1937 Austin 7 Opal Tourer forms part of the carefully curated Blaauwbank collection that includes an eclectic mix of multi-generational cars, a selection of rare and interesting vehicles, carefully stored in purpose-built, climate-controlled dry storage hangars, located in the arid climate of Central South Africa.

The Austin 7 was a revolutionary small car that put Britain on wheels in the interwar period, with its simple yet effective design becoming the template for many manufacturers that followed. Such was its success that the pipe-smoking bods at Austin decided to expand the range regularly, and in 1934, this included the 'Jewels' - the Pearl, Ruby and this - the Opal. Upmarket, handsome little tourers with familiar mechanics.

What makes this 1937 example especially worthy of consideration is its originality, having spent its entire life in the dry climate of South Africa's Karoo region. With just three former registered keepers, a recent cylinder head rebuild, and its unmolested condition, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine piece of motoring history that remains both usable and charming.

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1937 and has reportedly had only three former registered keepers throughout its 88-year history
Has spent its entire life within the arid Karoo region of South Africa
56,846 miles indicated
Part of a carefully curated private collection, dry stored in a custom-built facility
Being sold due to the current political climate in South Africa

The Condition

Finished in Westminster Green with black trim showing well-patinated and charming character
The vendor states there is no evidence of corrosion presenting as a dry state car
Interior retains a wonderful air of originality
Folding soft top and side windows
Sits on four period-correct Kelly tyres
Has never been stripped down or abandoned, maintaining its originality, the vendor tells us

The Mechanics

747cc four-cylinder engine
Four-speed manual transmission
Recent mechanical work includes a cylinder-head rebuild and annual service
The vendor states the engine "runs beautifully"
Described as a "sprightly" performer
Often chosen by the current owner as a preferred weekend run-about, suggesting good reliability and usability

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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