Steam boilers for marine use were the first success of brothers Jules and Albert Niclausse, who later developed an avid interest in the nascent automotive industry. Their marine-boiler background influenced the round designs they used for their radiators and vehicle hoods. Their previous experience and expertise led to manufacturing innovations including a water pump and flywheel cooling system, an additional rear leaf spring and an automatic carburetor. The brothers obtained patents on nearly all of the motorcar components they developed.

This unrestored Type D was purchased by the Mullin Collection directly from Juan Coma-Cros, the grandson of the original owner, Juan Coma of Barcelona. The other Niclausse, the Type S in this sale, was also owned by Coma, and the excellent condition of both automobiles reflects the utmost care of three generations of ownership. While the Type S was intended for city use, this more powerful Type D Tourer was intended for countryside touring. The Niclausse wears its original registration plate, B-971, signifying that it was the 971st car in Barcelona in 1908 – an increase of almost 500 cars in slightly over one year from when the family’s Type S arrived. After being acquired by the Mullin Collection in 2007, it was displayed at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® in the Prewar Preservation Class.

The opportunity to acquire a well preserved, high horsepower, French antique with open Binder coachwork, such as this spectacular Niclausse should not be overlooked.