The Judkins-bodied coupe offered here, one of just 345 produced on the 1925 Lincoln Model L chassis, was formerly owned by the late, well-known enthusiast, Craig Watrous of California, known as a participant in Lincoln Owners Club and concours events on the West Coast, as well as for avidly driving and enjoying his automobiles. Mr. Watrous had acquired the car from Donald Reniers, a well-known Model L collector, who had faithfully maintained the Lincoln for much of its life.

Always maintained as a fine, solid original car for its entire life, the Lincoln was an ideal basis for restoration, retaining its original body, chassis, engine, and drivetrain. In fact, it had been shown in the Prewar Preservation class at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, an event in which Mr. Watrous was instrumental for many years.

The current owner commissioned the car’s restoration by Seth Lacey of SSC Automotive Restoration, in this beautiful dark Brewster Green combination. It was fitted with correct 21-in. Buffalo wire wheels, and the interior reupholstered in leather, a Judkins factory optional material, with tasteful touches including draw shades for the windows and square-weave carpeting in the trunk. Exhaustive attention was given throughout, with the result being a car that is utterly superb both cosmetically and mechanically. Running condition and strength being imported to the consignor, the engine was fitted with a custom-engineered manifold with a downdraft carburetor, which is noted to work well and makes the Lincoln quite a reliable 65-mph powerhouse for touring; the original carburetor and manifold accompany the car.

Simply put, this is one of the most attractive recent Model L restorations – a true showpiece that also has the brawn to perform on the road.