Description
Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
Viewing: Tues 28th July from 12pm
Auction 29th July, 2026 12:00
Location: Pavilion Gardens St John's Rd, Buxton SK17 6BE
Registration No: 8737 RWChassis No: HBT 7 18112MOT: Exempt
Original RHD home market car
Extensive known history with only 2 previous owners shown on V5C
Current owner for over 28 years and always dry stored
Still with its original personalised document file and BMC HeritageTrust Certificate
One of the most charismatic British sports cars ever made, the Big Healey used what was essentially the same silhouette to evolve from a pared-back, four-cylinder roadster through to a more civilised, six-cylinder convertible. Described by The Motor in 1961 as ‘velvet gloved high performance from the latest triple-carburettor 4-seater’ the early versions are extremely desirable and hold legendary status. Officially capable of 112 MPH, the model was famous for its distinctive styling and thrilling exhaust note.
This example finished in Healey blue over ivory was despatched new to Bridge Clock Motors Ltd of Coventry on 26th February 1962 and we understand has always enjoyed UK ownership. Indeed the car retains its original Coventry registration number. In 1997 it underwent a comprehensive restoration by Bledlow Bridge Motors and some pictures of this restoration are contained in the document file. It was at that time the vendor assumes that the engine was replaced by an arguably better BJ8 MkIII high compression engine with correct centre change gearbox and overdrive. Supplied with a copy of an old-style blue log book we can see from that from 1997 to 1998 it moved between a Steven Collins, possible a dealer of Marlborough Place, London via auction to our vendor, a garage owner, now retired. He has owned the car for 28 years and in that time moved to France in 2005 taking the car with him before returning to live in the UK in 2023. In that time he registered it in France and obtained a Carte gris which in effect means the car has ‘dual nationality’ with its UK V5C.
Kept in mechanically excellent order as one would expect from a garage owner, 8737 RW is in great looking shape. On inspection at the time of consignment the car was started up on multiple occasions starting easily every time. Maintaining good oil pressure at 40 PSI on tick-over (as can be seen on the accompanying video) it also drove beautifully. Indeed our vendor intends to drive it to this auction without hesitation. Inspection underneath as can be seen by the accompanying photographs shows a very clean corrosion free example. We understand the gearbox is a standard unit with overdrive. In recent times the crank was professionally ground, a new timing chain fitted, the head faced and a Kenlowe *** installed. Maintained constantly over 28 years as his personal car, the striking original interior features original leather seats appearing in excellent shape and rare to see. The tonneau cover is supple, undamaged and fits well as does the full hood and side windows.
The history file is impressive and an original RHD home market and low ownership example of arguably the most desirable version of a Big Healey remaining in such original condition is rare to find. Offered with current Swansea V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Entry by catalogue and can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
