To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia Island event, 22 May 2021.
Estimate:
$125,000 - $165,000 USD

• A rare prewar Alvis of excellent quality
• One of 15 Cross & Ellis Sport Tourers built, and nine known survivors
• An appealing and well-maintained older restoration
• Accompanied by all-weather equipment, top boot, historical documentation, and literature
• A CCCA Full Classic; ideal for show and spirited touring

Established in Coventry, England in 1919, Alvis’ slogan in the years prior to World War II was “Master of the King’s Highway.” It was no idle boast: This 1936 Silver Eagle SG Sport Tourer’s well-engineered chassis cradled a triple-SU-carbureted 2,653-cubic centimeter inline-six mated to a four-speed manual transmission; independent front suspension and four-wheel drum brakes ensured confident road manners, while its 100-mph speedometer hinted at its performance potential.

As an SG example, of which fewer than 700 were built in 1935 and 1936, it represents the Silver Eagle’s most refined iteration. Its sporting bodywork by Cross & Ellis places it in rarified company, as just 15 believed to have worn this style from new. Only nine are known to survive.

This chassis, in black over black, was delivered new to Grange Sheard via Bambers of Leeds, England on 4 April 1936. He would keep it until his death in 1951. In 1967, it was purchased by Elazar Behar of Seattle, Washington. Sold to Paul Lutey of Freeland, Washington in 1972, it was then acquired by George Raab of Sammamish, Washington in 1976.

The Alvis was restored under Mr. Raab’s ownership, with Greg Soter of Phantom Restorations beginning work in 1984. Completed 1989, it was refinished in red over tan with tan top; it was exhibited and enjoyed by Mr. Raab, who would retain the car until his death in October 2013. Subsequent owners applied for Classic Car Club of America Full Classic status, attained in January 2014. The car has been displayed at numerous shows in the Pacific Northwest, and it would surely be welcome at many more.

Connoisseurs recognize Alvis cars for their quality, performance, and style. The next owner of this beautifully presented Silver Eagle SG—accompanied by all-weather equipment, top boot, historical documentation, and literature—will have ample opportunity to enjoy the Red Triangle’s well-earned reputation firsthand.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am21.