“First by Far with a Post-War Car” has gone down in history as one of the most iconic advertising slogans of the 1940s. The Studebaker factory in South Bend, Indiana, was able to beat just about every other major American manufacturer to market with an all-new automobile, which was introduced in June 1946 as a 1947 model. Lower, wider, and with redesigned chassis and suspension, the cars featured innovative new styling by Raymond Loewy, which was, at the time, controversial. Today, it has come to be seen as one of the most unique and attractive post-war American cars and as a design landmark that forecasted ultramodern Studebakers from Loewy’s hand.

Both 1947 Studebaker models had six-cylinder engines, with the top-of-the-line Commander having the more powerful 94-horsepower version. The Commander Convertible was offered only in Regal DeLuxe trim, with stainless steel windshield trim and rocker panel moldings, to add a bit of additional flair. With only 1,503 built, it was scarce on the road even when new. Few have survived and fewer still are roadworthy, and even fewer still have enjoyed high-quality restorations.

The Convertible offered here was formerly part of the noted collection of Charles Cawley, who is renowned for his excellent taste and eye for quality. Appropriately, it underwent a 10-year-long restoration, and during which, the original interior, “worn-in, not worn out,” was carefully retained, including the factory red vinyl upholstery and carpets. The body was refinished in the factory color of Tulip Yellow, and only NOS parts were sourced in the restoration of the engine, chassis, drivetrain, and accessories. Options include the “must-have” factory overdrive gear; factory spotlights, signal lights, and fog lights; an AM radio; a clock; a heater; and the DeLuxe hood ornament, as well as accessory front and rear bumper tips.

Reported to run and drive well, this Commander Regal DeLuxe Convertible is “First by Far” among post-war Studebakers, and it will make a wonderful tour and weekend driving car for its next lucky owner.