1925 Locomobile
Not too often does the rare opportunity to restore such a unique piece of history present itself, and the history of this particular Locomobile is very unique...
Arguably one of the most beautiful Model 48's ever built. This one of a kind 1925 Locomobile was custom built for Edward T Stotesbury, who was JP Morgan's business partner. Mr. Stotesbury ordered this Model 48 Chassis in 1924 with a special ordered custom coachwork by Derham with a fully transformable all weather phaeton body. The top can be lowered and all of the windows disappear to give the car the look of a phaeton.
Upon delivery Mr. Stotesbury had the car shipped to New York, where the car was restyled with new fenders, custom appointments, and a Rolls Royce style hood, and radiator with his initials engraved into it. Mr. Stotesbury felt that, in his position as managing director of the largest bank in America, it was not proper for him to be seen in a foreign automobile.
The Locomobile was then shipped to his new mansion in Philadelphia, named "Whitemarsh Hall" , in Philadelphia, which was at that time the most lavish American Palace ever built. After visiting the mansion, Henry Ford was quoted as saying "It is a great experience to see how the rich live". This car that you see here was the Stotesbury's personal automobile.
Concours Classic Motorcars undertook a full frame off restoration of this rare and significant car. This rare Locomobile was largely complete and correct, although the body required major reconstruction in the rear section. The Derham coachwork was appointed, with incredible woodwork , and interior features. The Model 48 engine bay glistens like jewelry, with a myriad of every metal under the hood including, Silver, Nickel, Bronze, Aluminum, Brass and Copper.
This extraordinary classic has been shown only a few times:
- Debuting at the 2005 Amelia Island Concours, where it received a special corporate award for the Most Outstanding Custom Coach Work.
- At the Greenwich Concours in 2005 it recieved a Best in Class Award
- Meadowbrook Concours 2005, it received a Best In Class Blue Ribbon
After only 3 showings it was purchased by the World Famous Blackhawk Collection in Denonville California.
This Locomobile is Unique and Outstanding in every way.
