Chassis No. KB2259

Engine No. KB2259

The Lincoln K Series was the top-of-the-line luxury car produced by the Lincoln Motor Company when introduced in 1931. It featured a modernized chassis and a new V12 engine, which became a hallmark of the brand for nearly two decades. Competing against top models like the Cadillac V-12, Packard Twin Six, and Duesenberg Model J, the Model K was one of the most exclusive American cars of its time, rivaling European luxury brands like Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Benz. In 1933, the Model K received several updates, including the removal of the headlight bar, the return of hood louvers, and improvements to the chassis, shock absorbers, and transmission. The Model KA replaced the previous V8 engine with a smooth V12, while the larger KB 448 cu-in engine remained unchanged. Lincoln also offered a bare chassis for coachbuilders to create custom bodies, adding to the car's bespoke luxury appeal.

In the early 1930s, Lincoln adopted a clever strategy to streamline the delivery of its luxury cars while maintaining their custom craftsmanship. While many cars were tailored to individual customer specifications, Lincoln also ordered pre-built bodies in advance, often in lots of 50. These bodies were produced by leading American custom coachbuilders like LeBaron, Dietrich, and Murphy. The finished cars could then be customized to the buyer's tastes, significantly shortening delivery times without sacrificing the bespoke quality. This practice was referred to as "catalog customs."

One of the standout examples of this approach is the 1933 Lincoln KB Convertible Sedan, featuring a body by Dietrich-considered one of the most attractive and practical coachbuilt designs of its time. Out of only 533 KB chassis produced that year, only 15 were fitted with Dietrich's Convertible Sedan body, and only around six examples are known to survive, according to previous research. This particular design is celebrated for its sleek, raked V-shaped windscreen, "suicide" doors, and versatile open coachwork, offering both open-air touring and protection from the elements. The design also cleverly accommodates a chauffeur-driven experience, thanks to a retractable division window in the front seatback.

Previous research shows that by the mid-1970s, this Lincoln was added to the renowned Rosenblatt collection. At the time, the car was in excellent condition and was soon featured in Automobile Quarterly. Under Mr. Rosenblatt's ownership, the KB was enjoyed for many years. In the 1980s, he commissioned Lincoln marque specialist Rick Kris to perform a complete cosmetic restoration to concours-level standards, while David Polson of Autowerkes handled the mechanical restoration. It is a well-detailed example with Depress Beam headlamps, Dual Trippe driving lights, dual fender-mounted spare wheels, and canvas covers topped with side view mirrors. Completing likely the finest example of the model, the car's exceptional quality earned it a series of prestigious awards, including a First in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, Junior and Senior awards from both the AACA and CCCA, in addition to the coveted James Melton Cup from the AACA.

Following Mr. Rosenblatt's passing, the Lincoln was sold to its next steward, who used the car sparingly before selling it about a year later. It was next acquired by esteemed collector Don Williams. The car was subsequently purchased by Georgia-based collector Milton Robson, who kept it until 2007 when it was sold again. In 2010, the car was acquired by The Academy of Art University Collection. Today, this 1933 Lincoln KB Custom Dietrich Convertible Sedan remains a charming example of this rarely seen "catalog custom." With an impressive listing of prior awards, this excellent example will undoubtedly continue to garner praise anywhere it goes.