Description
This is lot number 559 in the Bonhams Beaulieu Sale on September 14th, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Imported from the USA in 2008
Original right-hand drive model
Engine rebuilt in 2005
Highly original
Recommissioning advised
Built by the Willys Overland Company in 1912 and powered by a four-cylinder 30hp engine, this four-door 112-year-old 'Brass Era' Model 59 tourer is an original right-hand drive car. The Overland was imported in 2008 from Competition Motors in New Hampshire, USA. Unfortunately, little is known of its history but it is clearly a very original example.
Evidently the previous owner had started to recommission the car, while accompanying paperwork shows that the running gear and mechanicals have been attended to, including an engine rebuild around 2005. The Overland is said to always run well and has been stored with some of the owner's other collector-vehicles in a dry 'toyshop'.
Finished in blue over black, the car is reported to be in very good condition and highly original, with much of the original acetylene lighting system still in place. The current owners decided to maintain originality as far as possible by having the black leather interior preserved and repaired over the course of six months by the Leather Conservation Centre (report included), thereby allowing the cockpit to be used while maintaining the original 'aged'-looking condition. Unfortunately, the roof fabric is not complete; however, the leather straps (some new), the complete rear window, some banding, and the frame including a 'new' front bow are all in place.
The car has been properly imported into the UK and comes with a V5C Registration Certificate and Customs & Excise documents. Purchased from a deceased's estate, it is sold only because it is surplus to the needs of the owner's collection. The Overland has not been used for a few years, and although it starts and drives well may require some recommissioning before further use. A copy of the Overland handbook is included in the sale.
