1908 American Simplex 50 Speedcar

VIN: 211

$2,014,000

Sold

Seller details

  • Auction

    Mecum Auctions

  • Location

    Monterey, CA, US

  • Event date

    Aug 16 - Aug 18, 2012

  • Lot

    S101

Vehicle specs

  • Chassis/VIN

    211

  • Body style

    Roadster

  • Odometer

    17 M

  • Interior Color

    Black leather

  • Exterior Color

    Maroon

Vehicle details

Notes and observations recorded by Hagerty staff.

Equipment

RHD. Condor bulb horn, Warner speedometer and clock, Solar kerosene side lights, dual rear spares with round Sages luggage, Solar Type 796 acetylene headlights, 610 cubic inch T head four, Simplex carburetor, Bosch magneto, double chain drive. Older show quality restoration with excellent paint, good upholstery and brilliant brass. Described as the oldest known surviving Simplex. Freshly restored and nearly impeccable.

Market commentary

At this price the bidders plainly accepted the auctions representation that this is the oldest known Simplex. Its condition and presentation are nearly concours fresh and it has to be an endorphin producing ride no matter what its history. In the absence of evidence of the originality of its configuration the new owner had to accept it for what is, a bit of a stretch at this price.

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