As one of the first coachworks available to the Duesenberg Model J, LeBaron’s Dual-Cowl Phaeton is one of the most desirable to still survive today.
The Dual-Cowl Phaeton was later redesigned and arguably improved by the great Gordon Buehrig. Indiana's Union City Body Company, which was also held by Duesenberg company owner E.L. Cord, produced about 12 of these Buehrig drawn bodies, finished them in white, and crowned them LaGrandes. After being delivered to Duesenberg, the factory’s craftsmen finished each body, mounted it to its designated Model J chassis, and passed it on to its respective owner.
In all about a dozen of these cars were made but around the same time a Murphy Convertible Sedan with chassis no. 2355 was delivered to J.H. Brewer of Grand Rapids, Michigan. While this beautiful car had to have been one of his most prized possessions, it was not the only Duesenberg that he owned. At some point while under original ownership, this Model J’s engine was swapped with another 420-cid DOHC inline 8-cylinder engine. Brewer's estate sold the car in 1941 and it changed hands among Michigan collectors many times prior to the mid 1950s when it was moved to Pittsburgh shortly before making its way to Toledo. This is where it met with its iconic LaGrande 'Sweep Panel' Dual-Cowl Phaeton coachwork and underwent a restoration.
Over the years this car has been a part of some of the most notable private collections, shown at some of the most notable shows, and won many awards. Unlike most of the other 11 or so examples made in its image, this 1933 Duesenberg Model J 'sweep Panel' Dual-cowl Phaeton LaGrande has managed to stay in private collections throughout its life and is one of very few available for public sale. Don’t miss what could very well be a once in a lifetime chance to bid on this excellent Model J.
