A very stately looking Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire in 3.4L straight-six guise
A fully operational example that presents very well indeed
Boasting a lovely, original patina to its comfortable and capacious interior
The Appeal
Armstrong Siddeley was one of those interesting conglomerates from the first half of the 20th Century, that produced, seemingly, diverse products. In Armstrong Siddeley’s case that was luxury cars and aero engines. Armstrong Siddeley had cemented its reputation for stately conveyances when used by the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII) during his 1930 tour of Uganda. This led to the Armstrong Siddeley being known as "an elegant car appropriate for royal use."
The Sapphire 346, as seen here, was the first of the Sapphire range to be introduced when it was launched in 1952. The car was all about the luxury with leather seats and walnut veneered accents being standard. The car was ideally suited to civic and royal duties being smooth, quiet and refined. Even the Sphinx bonnet mascot was known as “the symbol of silence.” On our car, however, the Sphinx is fitted with tiny jet engines as a nod to the firm’s less quiet products.i3KWOgNjuDyQYfsYHPtPCa4x990A8nHKbt65egaJ.jpg692.8 KB
The History and Paperwork
Our car was first registered in March 1954
Thanks to the dashboard plaque, we know it was supplied by Vincents of Reading
Not too much is known about the early life of our car
Prior to its current ownership it was in use by a wedding car company
The current owner acquired the car approximately two years ago
The car is regularly used and very original
So much so as it recently appeared in a feature film set in the 1970’s
Paperwork comprises just the current V5 in the name of the owner
With the passing of time Armstrong Siddeley has, perhaps, become less well known for its luxury cars than contemporaries from Rolls Royce, Bentley, Daimler and Jaguar. This is unfortunate, perhaps, but does present an opportunity to luxuriate in a British built, stately limousine that offers an excellent value proposition.
This example looks amazing in its two-tone paintwork complete with rear spats and imposing and chrome-heavy front end. This is certainly a car to make an entrance in, yet in a less obvious and more considered way than some of its contemporaries. This is reported to be a useable and enjoyable classic limousine and an exciting and interesting ownership proposition.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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