For the first time in Packard history, the factory issued a bulletin to dealers, along with press releases to the media, that its Twelfth Series, introduced on 30 August 1934, would also be known as 1935 models; cars built prior to the Twelfth Series may not be properly described by the model year, as Packard introduced cars at varying times throughout the calendar year. Thus, only Packards manufactured following August 1934 are properly referred to by their designated model year. This came about for two reasons. First, Packard wanted to comply with President Roosevelt’s request that automobile announcements be as early in the fall as possible to help stabilize and reduce unemployment during the winter months. Second, Packard was a member of the Automobile Manufacturers Association and was partial to holding the new auto show in November rather than in January.

Though most of the hoopla at Packard in 1935 centered on the new low-priced One Twenty model, Packard remained the leader in the luxury market. The Twelve was, without question, the grandest expression of luxury in the Packard model hierarchy. New styling gave the car a restrained, streamlined appearance, and the V-12 was stroked to 473 cubic inches, gaining new aluminum cylinder heads while conservatively rated at 175 horsepower. Twelves continued to be quality-checked by the factory and then given a 250-mile run on the Packard test track at nearby Utica, driven by Colonel Jesse Vincent’s brother, Charles, before delivery.

Of the 788 Twelves built for 1935, only a small handful wore the beautiful Dietrich convertible Victoria coachwork. The car offered here is a stunningly beautiful example of this very rare luxury convertible. Per the consignor, the car spent many years as a daily driver for the second owner. She maintained the car until the early 1980s, when it was picked up by Packard restorer Mickey Justice of Dillard, Georgia. The car was restored in his care in the early 1990s and was then purchased by the consignor. Beautifully maintained and properly stored, the car presents superbly. The paint, and especially the chrome work, all remain in excellent condition, making this an excellent choice for someone who seeks a car that is ready to enjoy.

A frequent award winner, including the AACA Grand National First Place in 1992, the CCCA Grand Classic Premier in 1992, and the Packard National Best of Show in 1992, the car has not been shown since the early 2000s. It is, therefore, an excellent opportunity for someone who would like to show a rarely seen yet important Packard. Recently fitted with new rims by Valley Wire Wheel, the car looks, drives, and shows beautifully.

A rarely seen Packard Twelve from what many consider to be one of Packard’s best years, this extremely rare convertible Victoria is truly worthy of any of the world’s most discerning collections.