For many Packard enthusiasts, the 11th series represents the pinnacle of the marque, particularly those equipped with the superb twelve-cylinder engine. Announced in August 1933, the 11th series featured handsome new styling with deeply skirted front fenders, a V-shaped radiator shell flanked by bullet headlamps with matching V-shaped lenses, raked windscreen, and an overall lower, sleeker appearance. It is often considered the ultimate expression of classic era styling, offering the first hints of streamlining to the design.

Packard’s extensive catalog of standard and custom bodies included some of the most spectacular designs of the era, courtesy of LeBaron and Dietrich. Twelve-cylinder models were offered in three wheelbases, with 24 body styles to choose from. Among those, the Dietrich-designed convertible Victoria stands proudly as one of the finest of the era. Offered on the 147-inch 1107 chassis, body style 747, otherwise known as the five-passenger convertible Victoria, is sublimely proportioned, with its elegant lines unspoiled with the roof up or down. It was a costly model when new, and today fewer than ten examples are known to exist, all of which are prized by collectors and coveted by enthusiasts.

The 1934 Twelve convertible Victoria offered here spent many years quietly hidden away in a private collection in the Northeast, where it was treated to a ground up, nut-and-bolt restoration. Shortly after acquisition, the most recent owner freshened the restoration with a complete repaint to concours standards, restored chrome, and extensive mechanical servicing and detailing. The beautiful metallic grey body is subtly accented by a maroon chassis, and accessories include dual side-mount spares with painted covers, a trunk rack, and a majestic crystal Tete D’Aigle radiator mascot. The brightwork was meticulously restored by a respected specialist, and it rides on sparkling chrome wire wheels with new wide-whitewall tires to round out the dramatic presentation.

Burgundy leather provides a rich contrast to the paintwork, and it displays an inviting character with excellent carpets, fine woodwork and woodgrain-effect panels, and correct switches, controls, and instrumentation. The dark grey salt-and-pepper canvas top was fitted as part of the recent restoration and includes a matching boot cover. Beneath the bonnet sits the 445.5 cubic-inch L-head V-12, beautifully detailed in the correct shade of Packard green with restored chrome hardware and fittings. Extensive mechanical preparation has readied it for enjoyment on the road.

Exquisitely finished from stem to stern, this highly desirable and stunningly beautiful Packard is equally fit for the concours field as well as enjoyment as a spectacular, head-turning tour car, and it is certain to delight its next caretaker at any such endeavor for years to come.