Lot 5117

Auburn Fall 2017

1953 Buick Skylark

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$125,000 - $150,000 USD | Not Sold

United States | Auburn, Indiana

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  • Complete and well-executed restoration
  • Approximately 39,000 actual mile example
  • In period, American sporting luxury at its finest
  • Many factory luxury standards and excellent design

Recognized as one of Buick’s all-time greatest cars; the 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible was the centerpiece of Buick's 50th Anniversary. The Skylark came with standard equipment beyond anything previously offered by the brand. Based on the premium-series Buick Roadmaster chassis, the Skylark had a look all of its own; it was the only Buick offered in the line-up that year that didn’t feature the “trademark” and stylish VentiPorts. The Kelsey-Hayes 40-spoke chrome wheels are acknowledged by collectors as among the most beautiful wheels to ever enhance an American production car. Powered by Buick's first modern V-8 engine, a 188 horsepower, 322 cubic inch “Fireball” unit, this car's performance matched its racy appearance. In fact, period ads and brochures labeled the Skylark as a “stunning new luxury sports car.”

The Twin-Turbine Dynaflow automatic transmission was highly touted and also a standard. The Roadmaster was the previous top-of-the-line Buick carried a wonderful reputation; all equipment and accessories that were optional on the respected Roadmaster were standards on the Skylark. Buick offered a “Million Dollar Ride” that was impeccably smooth, a gentle ride, ease of handling, and quick throttle response. The Skylark was lavished with practically every then-modern automotive advance that included hydraulic control of the windows, top, and front seat. Also each car came with a retractable antenna for the Buick AM radio that was operated from the same system. Of course, power steering and brakes were part of the luxury-laden package.

The interior provides a great deal of comfort and style; the damascene-trimmed dashboard fascia carries into the door panels and is an excellent accent. The exterior offered contrasting wheel well colors that were based on the main body shade. A sweeping V-shaped side trim element also adds distinction to the obviously cleanly-executed profile. The soft-top has a very low profile and joins a tasteful, curved windshield that provides a great look, either up or down. With a base price of $4,596, the Skylark was not an inexpensive choice of the period. Sales in 1953 totaled just 1,640 units, making the 1953 Buick Skylark a rare and collectible car.

Beautifully and fully restored; this superb 1953 Buick Skylark is a 39,000 actual mile example ensuring it to be an uncommon opportunity. The restoration included new paint, chrome, convertible top, and leather interior. The Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels are even more beautiful in person; wide whitewall tires are the perfect accent. With the 1953 Buick Skylark, your greatest expectations of truly luxurious 1950s motoring will be realized.