• One of just 836 examples built in 1954
• Fully restored in factory-correct Arctic White over red leather with a black top
• 322 cu. in. V-8 engine; two-speed ‘Dynaflow’ automatic transmission
• Acquired by the consignor in 2006; carefully maintained since

The Skylark concept was first displayed as a General Motors Motorama car in 1952. A limited-production version of the Skylark was offered the following year to celebrate Buick’s 50th anniversary, joining the Oldsmobile Fiesta and Cadillac Eldorado in what is affectionately known as the dream car “Trifecta.” These top-of-the-line 1953 models established GM as the styling leader for the 1950s. The Skylark was offered with a number of luxurious features as standard equipment, which led to its steep price tag and limited production with 1,690 produced in 1953.

The 1954 Skylark offered a departure from its predecessor by introducing more of a performance element to the top-end luxury model. The aggressive styling shared attributes with the Wildcat II concept car, and the 200-horsepower V-8 overhead-valve engine was placed in a Century chassis that was both shorter and lighter than the Roadmaster version. Skylark production was extremely limited in 1954, the final year of the model, with only 836 examples built.

Acquired by the consignor in 2006, this 1954 convertible offered here is an exceptional example of what many consider Harley Earl’s finest production convertible design. During previous ownership this exceedingly rare Skylark was restored to its factory-correct shade of Arctic White with Matador Red wheel wells and matching red leather interior (with correct “waffle” pattern upholstery). It subsequently earned its AACA Junior award in 2000, and its Senior award the following year. While with its current owner, this Skylark has reportedly been kept on a strict maintenance and driving schedule.

The performance of the 200-horsepower, 322 cubic-inch “Nailhead” V-8 pairs perfectly with the smooth-shifting “Dynaflow” automatic transmission and standard power steering. The Skylark is complete with every option offered by Buick as standard; as such, the cabin is furnished with seemingly modern features including power windows and seats, “Selectronic” radio, automatic parking brake, and heater/defroster. Of course, the color-matched convertible top is also another one of the Skylark’s attractive power amenities. A correct set of Kelsey-Hayes 40-spoke wire wheels shod in wide whitewall tires complete the looking, providing ample assistance to the chassis’ standard power brakes.

Rare and stylish, this Skylark remains a highly desirable and exceptionally collectable automobile that represents Americana at its very finest.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az21.