Introduced in 1954, Ford’s glass-roof Skyliner was a prestige version of the Crestline Victoria hardtop coupe, with an acrylic transparent roof panel over the front seat. Advertising boasted of a “freshness of view,” offering some of the sensations of the soft-top Sunliner convertible while providing all-weather comfort. It proved quite popular, with more than 13,000 sold, and was carried over into 1955.

Now part of the top-line Fairlane series, it was twinned with a steel-top prestige hardtop coupe, the Crown Victoria, which had a streamlined roofline and a bold chrome “tiara” in the B-pillar location; however, much of the novelty had worn off. Just 1,999 were built, making the model a coveted prize today. The Skyliner was carried over into 1956, but only 603 found customers. For 1957, the Skyliner name was applied to the new retractable hardtop convertible, and “Crown Victoria” went into remission until 1983, when it came to represent a top tier of the LTD series.

Considered to be the jewel in the Crown, the Skyliner’s rarity tempted some enthusiasts to build their own by putting a glass top into an “ordinary” Crown Vic. Although imitations are easy to spot from the coding in the chassis number, this Skyliner is the real deal. Formerly in a well-known California collection, it was built at Ford’s Chicago plant. It has been restored in its correct Snowshoe White and Tropical Rose colors, with matching vinyl interior and black carpets. It is equipped with tinted glass, a push-button radio, an electric clock, a Magic Aire heater-defroster, dual exterior mirrors, power seat fender skirts, and Ford-O-Matic transmission. The engine is the two-barrel carbureted version of Ford’s famous Y-block V-8 and is equipped with a dual exhaust system. Wide whitewall tires fitted to Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels with spinner caps give the car an elegant appearance.

The car has reportedly been carefully maintained by the owner’s full-time mechanic and is accompanied by a book documenting the restoration.

The rarest of 1955 Fords, this car is a superb find. The quality of the restoration is excellent, with attention to detail in all respects. Equally at home on the show field or on the road, it will give immense pleasure to its new owner.