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LOT 398

Selling on Saturday

1932 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl Phaeton Replica

  • A fascinating build by Terry Cook and Volusia County Customs
  • Built in the style of the famed "Sweep Panel" Phaeton LaGrande Model Js
  • Beloved '30s looks and charisma with modern-day power and reliability

VIN: L2979442

First introduced to the world in December of 1928 at the New York Motor Show, the Duesenberg Model J caused a whirlwind of excitement among everyone that laid eyes on it. Even those who didn't get a glimpse at the show were told of the stately appearance and proclaimed performance. Backing up everything it was advertised to be, "The World's Finest Motorcar," the Model J wrote itself in the history books as one of, if not the greatest American made automobiles that has ever been crafted. Even today, it is a Duesenberg that holds the world record for the most expensive American made automobile to sell at a public auction. With such a status, it's only right that people have set out to replicate that, building their own re-creations, replicas, and tributes.

A fascinating and carefully planned build of one of the most iconic and desirable automobiles ever created, this 1932 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl Phaeton Tribute, is a labor of love. Constructed by a trio of master builders, Todd Fisher and Jon Bachand of Volusia County Customs in Franklin, New Hampshire, as well as Terry Cook of Deco Rides and Delahaye USA, this Model J is a true showstopper. Built on a 1935 Lincoln chassis and titled as such, it was constructed to mirror the famous "Sweep Panel" Phaetons by LaGrande. The paintwork was completed just at the end of 2024 by Todd Fisher to an excellent presentation. The stunning chrome that can be seen throughout was done by John Barger of Frankford Plating in Philadelphia. Built on wire wheels wrapped in classic wide whitewall tires, a pair of matching spares can be found mounted into the fenders, adding to its commanding look and presence.

The lush interior, convertible top, and rear-mounted faux gator leather covered custom trunk were done by Steve Pierce of Gilford, New Hampshire. The custom rear trunk opens up to showcase a beautiful floral pattern with two slide out drawers for storage. Inlaid with all the luxury appointments the Model Js had; the dash features an eye-catching engine-turned motif with various gold-colored gauges. A matching speedometer gauge can be found in the rear as well, giving the occupants the chance to see how fast this art of wheels is floating down the road. A thoughtful build, the rear cowl is actually power activated, making it a breeze to enter and exit the rear bench seat.

The straight-six engine has been thoughtfully painted and presented in the same chrome and eye-catching green livery as the mighty Model J Duesenberg engines. It is paired with an automatic transmission that has been displayed in the cabin to present like a manual transmission. Most interesting, this replica retains multiple authentic Duesenberg parts, such as the headlights, grille, and cowl lights. Taken to various car shows like the Celebrity Classic Car Show in New Jersey, this example would also be a welcome addition at various other car shows and events around the country.

An automobile that grabs attention and turns heads everywhere it is taken or displayed, this example emulates the beautiful looks and charisma of the beloved '30s but offers the convenience of more modern power and reliability. A significant amount of time and resources went into this striking tribute going where it needed to receive expert care and work from various noted shops. This is a fascinating car and creative take on the greatest car the world has ever seen, the Mighty Model J Duesenberg.

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