- A 115-year-old Brass Era automobile
- Formerly of the Barney Pollard Collection
- Acquired by the Passport Collection 15 years ago
- Thoughtfully upgraded with a 12-volt starter, alternator, and electric fuel pump
LOT 326
Selling on Saturday
From The Passport Collection
1910 Rambler Model 53 Touring
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
The first Rambler car was built by the Thomas B. Jeffery Company, which was founded by Thomas B. Jeffery in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Jeffery was an early pioneer in the American automobile industry and was among the first to mass produce cars, introducing his first one in 1900. The Rambler Model A would debut at the 1902 New York Auto Show, and production quickly ramped up that same year. Rambler ranked second only to Olds in production volume for the year. The Rambler brand continued under the Jeffery Company until it was acquired by Charles Nash in 1916, becoming Nash Motors. The Rambler name was later revived by Nash in 1950 and continued under American Motors Corporation (AMC) until its demise in 1969.
Known history of this charming Brass Era automobile begins when noted collector and Brass Era enthusiast Barney Pollard acquired it in the 1940s. Remaining in his impressive collection until the late '60s, it was then relocated to New England. Over a 25-year period, the mechanical restoration was completed, thoroughly going through the 34-horsepower 281-cubic-inch inline four-cylinder engine and three-speed manual transmission. During this process, a number of fitting upgrades were made which included a conversion to a 12-volt starter and alternator, adding an electric fuel pump, upgraded halogen headlamps, turn signals, and brake lights. Additionally, hydraulic drum brakes were discreetly added to the rear wheels and a Carter BB-1 carburetor was equipped, all excellent upgrades for touring capabilities.
In 2009, a complete exterior and interior restoration was completed. The body, fenders, hood, and wheels were refinished to show quality condition, while all the original brass was removed, restored and polished. A new tan Haartz Stayfast top was also added at this time. Key exterior features of this Brass Era automobile include Rambler's running board-mounted full spare wheel and tire, original matching Solar headlamps, an acetylene generator, and kerosene side and tail lamps. The open interior is trimmed with black diamond-tufted leather upholstery, while the rear compartment features an adjustable footrest.
While this example still presents well with its older restoration, it is noted that mechanical attention is needed before roadgoing enjoyment. Accompanying the sale of this automobile is a Rambler parts manual and photos of this example before it was restored. A pioneering Brass Era automobile that has resided in the Passport Collection for the last 15 years, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a unique automobile that is over 115 years old and has many more stories to be told in its lifetime.
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