2009-10-19 10:56:26 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 10/09
www.classic-auctions.co.uk/lotdetail.php

Auction description:
Lot : 23
1947 Jaguar 3.5 Litre Saloon
Single ownership 1950-2007
Estimate: £35000 - 40000
Registration No: SMH 209
Chassis No: 611860
Engine No: S1876
CC: 3500
Colour: Black
Trim Colour: Brown
MOT: T.B.A.
Certainly the grace, space and pace of this lovely original car feel every bit as up to the job today as they would've been 62 years ago. And its remarkable condition is proof of why the reinvented Jaguar company got off to such a flying start" (Graeme Hurst on `SMH 209', Classic & Sportscar March 2009).

First registered in Middlesex on 30th September 1947, this particular example was just three years old when it was acquired by a Scottish surgeon. Used for holidays, weddings and other family occasions, the 3.5 Litre remained in his possession for almost six decades. Although laid-up during the early 1990s due to an engine malady, the Jaguar was never allowed to deteriorate to the point of needing extensive renovation. Entering the current ownership via the late doctor's estate in 2007, `SMH 209' has since been treated to some sympathetic recommissioning by marque specialist, Davenport Cars. As well as an engine, starter motor, dynamo and twin carburettor overhaul, the Saloon benefited from the refurbishment of its wire wheels / Ace wheel discs not to mention the fitting of a new stainless steel exhaust and fresh tyres. Running well, the 3.5 Litre was the subject of five-page article in the March 2009 issue of Classic & Sportcar which understandably focused on its remarkable state of preservation. Journalist Graeme Hurst commenting thus: "Turn the chiselled door handle and you get the first tangible taste of the car's unblemished beauty: the doors open and shut with the lightest of touches, the lock mechanisms closing with the gentle click of a coachbuilt body. This precision would be almost impossible to replicate during a full restoration, as would the rich aroma of oiled leather or the well-thumbed feel of the switchgear. The dashboard is carved from solid wood (no cheap veneers here) and features an array of Deco dials . . . Sink into the plush leather squab and you're transported back to a different, more genteel era in manufacturing".

The paintwork, brightwork and interior trim certainly look to be original and there is no denying that `SMH 209' feels all of a piece. Indeed, this lovely MKIV is a great riposte to those who maintain that William Lyons' cars were built down to a price rather than up to a standard. Naturally, the sixty-two-year-old black cellulose paint has dulled, faded and chipped in places. Likewise, the brightwork no longer has a mirror shine and the interior carpets are a little bit threadbare. But some unsightly corrosion to the door bottoms aside, the 3.5 Litre gives off an air of solidity. While, the way in which the sunroof sits in its aperture or the chrome strakes line up along the sides is a delight. Potentially eligible for the Post-War Preservation Class at various Concours d'Elegance meetings, this wonderful Jaguar is offered for sale with a valid MOT certificate.