The year 1955 proved to be the most successful of the decade for Buick in terms of the number of cars built, over 700,000 in all. Hitting its stride by fine-tuning the 1954 models, Buick began to rival in-house competitor Cadillac in terms of quality, value, and status. Of the 1955s, a scant 4,739 were the much-envied Model 76C Roadmaster Convertible, just over half of 1% of the year’s output.

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the striking 1955 Roadmaster Convertible offered here boasts such an imposing presence. This Buick joined the consignor’s diverse collection in 2010, and following his purchase, it was the subject of a multiyear comprehensive restoration by Art’s Antique and Classic Auto Services of Tempe, Arizona. Finished in its data plate specified, single-tone exterior of Carlsbad Black, Kelsey-Hayes-style wire wheels shod with BF Goodrich whitewall tires are the perfect finishing touch. Inside, properly patterned red leather seats and bolsters are also consistent with the firewall’s data plate. Nearly every available creature comfort came standard on the Roadmaster, including Buick’s exclusive Dynaflow transmission, power steering, and power window and seat controls. Options fitted include power brakes and auxiliary heat and defrost.

As with all of the consignor’s automobiles, the Roadmaster is regularly looked after and exercised on a strict schedule. Rarely does a mid-century American classic satisfy so many of today’s collector’s wishes: striking colors, desirable accessories, as well as standard and optional equipment galore. The 1950s was a time of excellence, optimism, and pride in America; this gleaming Roadmaster, hailing from Flint, Michigan ideally embodies the emotion of those days.