The first production Cadillacs of 1903 were offered as a runabout, either with or without a rear-mounted tonneau and powered by a single-cylinder, 98-cu. in. engine that could produce as much as 10 hp. From the start, the so-called Model A performed exceptionally well in hard driving events worldwide. The 2,497 examples produced in 1903 were widely acclaimed as the finest in their class for quality, finish, and mechanical engineering, establishing a reputation that has endured for over a century.

Fred Guyton’s 1903 Cadillac was originally delivered in Providence, Rhode Island, as noted in its factory build documents. It was exhibited in Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) competition by former owner Charles A. Moore, achieving its Grand National First Prize in 1975. Reportedly, Mr. Moore was so proud of the Cadillac that he exhibited it in his living room. Later it was acquired for the renowned collection of John B. McMullen in Lapeer, Michigan, and was fully detailed and sorted for Mr. McMullen by Classic & Exotic Service of Troy, Michigan, including rebuilding the carburetor, repainting the wheels, and other improvements throughout.

Mr. Guyton acquired the Cadillac from the McMullen Collection in 2007, and it has been on display at his Mason’s Garage for over a decade. Its restoration is remarkably well preserved, with nary a crack in the beautiful finishes of its wooden body, superb fit and finish of the black leather interior and canvas top, and brass that has cleaned up beautifully, including the Phare Solar headlamp and Dietz sidelights and taillamp. Testament to its authenticity is the level of fine detail throughout, extending to the original brass number plate still in place on the engine. The chassis and drivetrain are very clean and highly attractive. The car is offered with a pair of wicker side baskets.

This is almost certainly the nicest surviving example of the original Cadillac, and is one of the finest restorations in the Guyton Collection.