1953 Buick Skylark Convertible

Part of the 1953 General Motors "Trifecta"

Beautiful No Expense Spared Nut and Bolt frame off Restoration

The Skylark was first displayed as a General Motors Motorama car in 1952, and it was essentially a factory-built "sport custom" that was based upon the Roadmaster convertible. The windshield was chopped four inches, the beltline was cut down and notched at the rear fender line, and the rear-wheel cutouts were rounded and raised to match those in the front fenders; these were all techniques being used by California's customizers during the same period. The model was noteworthy for lacking Buick's trademark "ventiports" on the front fenders, and it rode on standard Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels.

A production version of the Skylark wowed the following year, as it was a limited-production offering that celebrated Buick's 50th anniversary. The production Skylark was noteworthy both for its beautiful design and as the car that debuted as Buick's first modern overhead-valve V-8, also called the "nailhead," which could produce 188 horsepower. Power steering, brakes, windows, seat, antenna, and convertible top were included in the nearly $5,000 price tag, which helped to keep sales to just 1,690 units.

While the Skylark name would continue as a limited-production model for 1954, and it would reappear in Buick's hierarchy for decades, the 1953 is generally considered the most special and desirable by collectors. Along with the original Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Fiesta of the same year, it was a true example of Harley Earl's "dream car design" that had been put on the street for the public to buy.

The absolutely beautiful Skylark offered here was ordered new by a Merle M. Wise, whom clearly wanted the best Buick had to offer.  It is finished in striking Mandarin red exterior complimented by a two tone red and cream interior.  To complete the iconic look, a white power convertible soft top and further set off by the white wheel wells.  Powered by the famous 322 cu.in. 188hp over head valve `nailhead` V8 engine with the prerequisite twin dynaflow automatic transmission.  Other comfort features include power steering, power windows, power seats, power top, radio, heater and more.  It rides beautifully on the striking factory chrome wire wheels wearing wide white wall tires.  The car has benefited from a multiyear no expense spared nut and bolt frame off restoration.  Under close inspection one can see there was no area overlooked and that detail even includes the underside.  There is no doubt that the car is in outstanding condition, with great attention to detail and a cost is no object restoration.  After one recent inspection, the restoration was well described as clearly having been, "a true labour of love".