Designed by Eugene T. "Bob" Gregorie under the direction of Edsel Ford, the Lincoln Continental began as a one-off personal automobile before quickly evolving into the flagship of Ford Motor Company's luxury division. Introduced for production in 1940, it combined European-inspired elegance with unmistakably American proportions, establishing itself as one of the most celebrated automotive designs of the era.

Lincoln refined the Continental each year without compromising the model's signature identity. For 1942, the graceful silhouette and distinctive rear-mounted "Continental" spare remained, while the front end received a handsome new grille of finely spaced horizontal bars that reflected the contemporary Streamline Moderne aesthetic. The result was the final and most refined pre-war evolution of the original Continental.

Unfortunately, the model year proved exceptionally brief. Following America's entry into World War II, civilian automobile production ceased in early 1942, limiting Continental Cabriolet production to just 136 examples. Post-war Continentals adopted a noticeably different front-end treatment, making the rare 1942 cars immediately identifiable and among the most desirable of the original series.

Offered from The James G. Robinson Collection, this Continental is accompanied by a copy of its original production card, which records completion on 17 November 1941—less than a month before the attack on Pearl Harbor—and shipment to Kansas City on 24 November 1941. It was originally finished in elegant Bristol Blue over a blue interior with a tan convertible top and equipped from the factory with a side mirror, heater, AM radio, power windows, and an in-dash clock.

The car has since been restored in its factory-correct Bristol Blue, now complemented by a blue fabric convertible top that creates an elegant and cohesive presentation. The blue interior, accented with tasteful cream piping, remains true to the Continental's understated luxury. Power comes from Lincoln's smooth 292-cubic-inch flathead V-12 paired with a three-speed column-shift manual transmission, while wide whitewall tires complete the car's unmistakable pre-war presence.

Recognized as a Full Classic by the Classic Car Club of America, the first-generation Lincoln Continental remains one of the defining American luxury automobiles of the 20th century. With its exceptional rarity, documented factory history, elegant presentation, and unmistakable styling, this 1942 Continental Cabriolet represents a particularly desirable opportunity to acquire one of the final—and finest—pre-war examples of Edsel Ford's enduring masterpiece.