The original Buick Skylark debuted for 1953 alongside the inaugural versions of the Cadillac Eldorado and the Oldsmobile Fiesta as one of the “dream cars for the public,” that were limited-production versions of popular General Motors Motorama show vehicles. Each Skylark was based upon a Roadmaster convertible, but was essentially factory-customized, with the windshield lowered four inches, the beltline cut down and notched at the rear fender line, and rear-wheel cutouts and radiused to match the front fenders—all the better to exhibit sparkling Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels. Power came from Buick’s first modern overhead-valve V-8 engine, the soon-to-be-famed “nailhead.”

Each Skylark came with power steering, brakes, windows, seat, antenna, and convertible top, all included in a nearly $5,000 price tag, firmly entering Cadillac territory—one reason, perhaps, that just 1,690 of the cars were made. The original Skylark would be a one-year-only offering and its memorable design, undoubtedly one of GM’s most beautiful in this era, made it more or less an instant collectible.

Charles J. Noto acquired this Skylark in early 2016 from respected Texas collector Don Davis. It had been restored several years prior in its original color of Reef Blue—as per its trim tag—with a White and Light Blue leather interior and beautifully refinished chrome trim throughout. Several minor upgrades were made to the car during restoration, including halogen headlights and radial whitewall tires, both for ease of use on modern roads. Indeed, Mr. Noto refers to this Skylark as one of his “drivers,” which he has enjoyed using in the best of weather on Long Island roads. Yet it has accumulated only 313 miles since restoration and its presentation is, accordingly, still excellent throughout, showing the level of good cosmetic care that each of his automobiles has received in loving ownership. Even the engine compartment remains largely crisp, while the undercarriage exhibits only minor signs of use.

This is a wonderful Skylark, well deserving of standing beside the Eldorado and Fiesta in one’s trifecta of '53 dream cars.