Description
One of 6 Built 1952 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe Left-Hand Drive
This stunning 1952 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe is a factory Left hand drive example wearing a beautiful older restoration. Subtle two-tone green paint with tan leather interior. This Park Ward Drophead Coupe, design number 322, is one of only six made. The swooping, front fenders blend seamlessly into the tapered rear with spats covering the rear wheels. Mechanically strong, it runs and drives wonderfully and the power top operates as it should.
This gorgeous Rolls was ordered by R. D. Onan of Minneapolis, an executive at his family business, D. W. Onan & Sons—a major manufacturer of generators and generator parts. Originally finished in triple Blue—paint, leather, and top, it was fitted with a power top and windows, extension speak to the radio, dual fog-lamps, white wall tires, and all the accoutrements required for the American market. Completed at the factory on May 26, 1952, Mr. Onan took receipt in August of that year. There is no recorded history for the car until 1985 when a plate on the firewall indicates the car was restored by Hibernia Auto Restorations Inc in Hibernia, New Jersey. Legendary for their top-quality work, the Rolls was displayed in Monterey during car week when it was owned by Eric Lorentzen of Arizona with a picture of the Drophead being featured in the October 1991 issue of PRÆCLARVM, the Federal Journal of the Rolls-Royce Owners' Club of Australia. Sold in January of 1995, the next owner was Dr. Adolph Lombardi of Columbus, Ohio. A careful steward of the rare Rolls for the next 12 years, copies of invoices on file show regular maintenance was conducted by his local shop, Specialty Sports Cars. Acquired by the current owner in May of 2007, the Drophead has remained on static display for the last 16 years. Still retaining its restoration over two-decade old restoration, as well as a later Sony head-unit as well as a modern generator and A/ C compressor, the car has mellowed over the years but still carries with it plenty of presence.
A lovely opportunity to own a unique coachbuilt open car from Britain's most prestigious manufacturer during the period when the British motor industry regained its footing after the war. It is a rare beauty that would be the perfect transportation to one of the world's great automotive events, whether the driver is a participant or a spectator.
Coachwork by Park Ward, Ltd.
Chassis no. LSHD34
Engine no. S17D
Factory left-hand drive
One of only six built
Delivered new to Minneapolis
Only two owners since 1995
Mechanically strong and presents beautifully with older restoration
The pinnacle of open top luxury motoring in the 1950s
Price: $267, 500
