To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia Island event, 6 - 7 March 2020.
Estimate:
$60,000 - $80,000

• Packard’s top-of-the-line model for 1955; one of 500 built
• Sold new through James L. Cooke Motors Limited of Toronto, Canada
• Single-family ownership from new; retains its original leather interior
• Believed to be a special-request triple-black example

For over 50 years, Packard had been one of America’s top luxury car manufacturers and had held a status unprecedented among automobiles of the worldwide elite. Sadly, all of that would end in the late 1950s. The company’s last prestigious, low-production offering was the Caribbean convertible of 1955 and ’56. This top-of-the-line model was completely redesigned for ’55, and at $5,932, the Caribbean was breathtaking in more ways than one. Perhaps unsurprisingly, a mere 500 examples were produced in 1955.

This Caribbean convertible is believed to be the 33rd built that year. It left the factory finished in triple Onyx with a white convertible top and boot cover. It was sold new through James L. Cooke Motors Limited of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to noted Canadian businessman George Montegu Black II. While the Packard Caribbean was known for its flashy tri-color exterior combinations, it is believed that this car was finished in all-black at the special request of Mr. and Mrs. Black, who favored a more subtle paint scheme. Notably, the data tag only notes one color, “V” for Onyx. The Caribbean has remained under their ownership from new with just 19,513 miles on the odometer.

The Carribean is equipped with a driver mirror, power seat, windows, convertible top, steering, and brakes. The interior retains its original leather and features a clock and radio. Recent work on the car included a number of items to make it more reliable and road worthy, highlighted by a complete engine rebuild, rebuilding of the carburetors, a new radiator, water pump rebuild, new fuel pump, new power brake unit, front brakes, new tie rod ends, new rear shocks, and four new tires.

A single-family example finished in unusual triple black, this Caribbean is truly a special opportunity to acquire Packard’s top-of-the-line model for 1955.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am20.