As automobile production resumed after World War II, offerings were limited to existing pre-war designs, but by 1949, the Big Three had fresh, innovative concepts on sale. Ford was first, showing all-new 1949 models on 8 June 1948. They were as un-Ford-like as anything the public had ever seen. Slab-sided and streamlined, the company proudly announced that the New York Fashion Academy had judged Ford the “Fashion Car of the Year.”

Michael Dingman purchased this 1949 Ford Custom convertible from Donald Netinho of Cooper City, Florida, in 2007. Netinho had owned it for a number of years, and other than an older repaint, it was essentially in excellent original condition. It was immediately consigned to Kevin Westmoreland’s Performance Restoration in Cleveland, Georgia, for a complete rebuild. The no-expense-spared restoration cost in excess of $155,000 and was completed in black, with the interior done to late-1949 specification in tan and brown leather by specialist J.E. Roll of New Philadelphia, Ohio. A light beige canvas, close to the original fabric, was chosen for the top and boot.

Well preserved in its current owner’s collection since 2012, the car remains virtually as completed by Mr. Westmoreland; its body contours are excellent, and the doors shut well. The paint exhibits a deep gloss with no visible flaws, and a deep maroon dashboard contrasts nicely with the exterior. It is equipped with a pushbutton AM radio, heater, electric clock, and power top, the finest and most desirable accessories available.

Although Ford’s station wagon was the most expensive 1949 model, the convertible carried the most prestige. This fastidiously restored example is without a doubt one of the best available in today’s market, presented just as it would have been at your local Ford dealer.