Beschreibung
Brian Frank in purchased this 1935 Riley Monaco circa 1990. The last but one owner informed me that Mr Frank was a well-respected restorer of Vintage motorcycles, and this Monaco was his final accomplishment before he passed away some two years after completion. Upon finishing the car he used it extensively travelling around Yorkshire. Upon Brian Frank’s death, it was passed on to his Daughter of Auckley near Doncaster in July 2005. Monaco was then consigned to the Bonhams Harrogate sale in 2007, where it was purchased by a retired Country Gentleman who resided at Farley Park Otley. The car has been used sparingly during this time, for trips into his hometown of Otley along with excursions around the Yorkshire Dales, normally chauffered by a good friend. Ill health and therefore lack of use forced a premature sale in December 2016. Where she was swiftly purchased by her current owner just down the Wharfedale Valley in Ilkley.
The description in the 2007 auction catalogue describes the car as ‘Presented in excellent condition but needed some mechanical re-commissioning’; looking at the 2007 catalogue photos nothing has really changed. But I differ from this description. Yes, overall body paintwork is good, however, the wings and running boards need some cosmetic attention so not exactly “excellent”. This isn’t a particularly large job to complete and one we can arraign should a new owner require it. The mechanic was re-commissioned as directed and do seem to be excellent, very strong oil pressure at startup, ditto when at running temperature. The brakes are very effective, as is the ENV pre-select gearbox which is a good as any I have experienced.
As I mentioned she was soon snapped by the current custodian and existing client in December 2016 shortly after appearing on our website. He and his family have enjoyed the car during this short time even taking the car up to Scotland for their sons' wedding where she was a principal part of that joyful day. She is now reluctantly re-offer following the loss of garaging space, due to the sons expanding vintage car upholstery business.
Footnote.
A new set of tyres were fitted in December 2016 and a new battery installed. An affordable Riley saloon that should be preserved. Ready for any inspection and test drive from our client's address which has excellent road and rail access.
