Packard produced about 10 five-passenger phaetons on the Eleventh Series Twelve chassis. The car offered here, no. 731-11, was the second built, and was sold new by Packard of Chicago on 28 February 1934. Its first owner was recorded by historian Edward J. Blend as having been Albert Harris, a prominent local banker, financier, sportsman, and philanthropist, noted in his 1958 Chicago obituary as “a powerful [voice] in shaping the city’s history.”

The Packard’s next known owner, Edward Eagle Brown, president of the First National Bank of Chicago, used it as his “summer” automobile; the “winter” car was the famous Duesenberg Model SJ town car built for Ethel Mars. It was sold by Brown in the early 1950s to pioneering NBC weatherman, Clint Youle, next passing in 1973 to Bill Buddig, the renowned, beloved collector and enthusiast from Illinois. Mr. Buddig’s friends and fellow CCCA members, Lee Gurvey and Ray Levy, recall the Packard as being an excellent original car, down to its former owner’s initials still on the doors, and that it was driven and enjoyed for some years in its unrestored condition. Mr. Buddig then endeavored to have his great friend Fran Roxas restore his favorite car, in the original color scheme and options, an easy job given its complete, original condition.

Following its restoration by Mr. Roxas, this car was a Classic Car Club of America Senior Premier winner, no. 1673, as well as Best in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, among other honors. It was eventually sold by Mr. Buddig’s estate in 1999 to the late Bill Jacobs, from whom it was purchased by the current owner.

Recent inspection by an RM Sotheby’s specialist showed that the Packard’s restoration still presents in virtually show-ready, concours condition, thanks to the excellent care that it has received both before and during its current ownership. Further, inspection of the frame and engine numbers indicates that both are original and “matching.” Accessories such as covered dual side-mounted spares, a correct Packard luggage rack and trunk, and the factory’s standard “feathered bail” radiator cap add to the wonderfully authentic, correct appearance.

“Timeless Lines Add to Desirability,” was how Mr. Blend captioned a photograph of the 1107 Twelve phaeton. Known history, wonderful purity, and an impeccable restoration add even more, and make this car one of the finest survivors from Packard’s greatest year.