In January 1932, Chrysler introduced what were called “second series” models for the year. There were now two top-of-the-line Imperial series: the 135-inch wheelbase CH and the Custom Imperial CL, which was 10 inches longer than the CH. Features included Floating Power engine mounts and a vee-configuration split windshield with panes that opened individually. Although the Briggs-built CHs lacked the prestige of LeBaron’s CLs, they had excellent proportions that set them apart and an élan that was absent in their upscale siblings. As a result, the CH Convertible Sedan, of which this car is a superb example, was the most popular of all open Imperials. Standard equipment included hand-buffed leather seats with matching kick panels and a leather door, matching carpets in the front and rear, and storage pouches in the rear doors. A top boot, a painted dash with a damascened instrument binnacle, dual side-mounts, and a trunk were standard. In all, 1,393 CH Chryslers were built, with just 152 of them being convertible sedans.

This CH Convertible Sedan was purchased by its previous owner in 1975 from a Rolls-Royce dealer. It had been restored for the previous owner, Donna Shade, for whom it had won its class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Thereafter, she traded it to the dealer for a Rolls! The restoration was a quality effort. It is light cream in color, with brown moldings and fenders that are accented by delicate red pinstripes. The fenders have recently been repainted to rectify the modest evidence of years of use. The interior is done in correct brown saddle leather, and a new tan canvas top was fitted some years ago. The 384.8-cid,125-hp L-head inline eight-cylinder engine is a fresh, top-quality rebuild, and it has been bored out and fitted with new pistons and valves. At that time, it was converted from poured Babbitt to insert bearings.

The car has been the recipient of countless awards in recent decades, the most notable of which was being selected as the Most Elegant Open Car by Senior Judge Andy Granatelli at the Santa Barbara Concours d’Elegance, from a field of some 500 cars. This Model CH Chrysler is one of ten known to survive, and it is ready for show, tour, or any worthwhile activity. It is excellent in all respects, and it will reward its new owner on the road and on the show field.