Equipment
RHD. Driving light, tri bar headlights, polished wheel discs, dual enclosed sidemounts. One off body with cutdown doors and low windshield, low rake F steering column, 3.42:1 rear axle originally built for Sir Auckland Geddes, MD, later owned by Rowland Smith, director of the coachbuilders parent, Rootes. Bought in the 50s by movie star Tyrone Power. Acquired by Fred Buess in 1958. Never restored although it has received regular mechanical and cosmetic attention as need to keep it in pristine and presentable running and driving condition. Recently repainted and reupholstered and has a standing invitation to be displayed at the Pebble Beach Concours in 2010 with freshening, detailing and preparation by Fred Buess included. Buess Family Collection. No Reserve.
Market commentary
This is an extraordinary automobile, a Rolls Royce sports car with sleek, streamlined one off bodywork (one of only two roadsters built on the Phantom II Continental chassis), high performance suspension and a wonderful history. It brought a premium price, but the buyer could have paid more without being profligate. It is a very good value.