1933 Lincoln Model KB Convertible Sedan

The flagship car for the entire Ford Motor Company was the Lincoln KB with its smooth-running V12 engine and well-appointed bodies. Body styles for the 1933 model adapted to the new sloping radiator, independent headlights, and skirted fenders. The Lincoln catalogue announced 26 different body styles built by 17 different coachbuilders.

This example is one of just 15 Dietrich Convertible Sedans produced. Its fashionably raked, V-shaped windscreen and rear hinged 'suicide' style doors are emblematic of Dietrich's inspired designs. It was previously owned by Mr. J. Quail, the President of the Lincoln Owners Club, who enjoyed the car for over 50 years.

Lincoln offered 26 KB body styles for 1933 with 17 from custom coachbuilders. In total, there were just 533 examples produced, some styles selling in very modest quantities. Among them was the 261, the Dietrich Convertible Sedan, of which only 15 were built. Similar to the Style 241 Convertible Sedan built for Lincoln by Dietrich in 1932, the 261 differed in several details. The body moldings and window reveals were revised, and the rear body contour became convex rather than concave. These changes gave room for an enclosed luggage compartment, although an exterior trunk rack was still provided. The rear passengers were treated to smoking sets and hassocks.

This Model KB Convertible Sedan has been in single-family ownership for nearly half-a-century. The current owner's father purchased it in 1966 from W.B. Adams of Camillus, New York, who owned it for at least a decade. A former president of the Lincoln Owners Club, the owner's father was a recognized expert on prewar Lincolns. The car received CCCA First Primary status in 1966 at Buck Hill Falls in Pennsylvania and was issued medallion number 276, which it still wears. The following May it achieved First: Senior Division at Minneapolis. It received many AACA and CCCA awards over the following decade.

In 2009, the car was brought back to show and touring condition. Work included completely rebuilding the V-12 engine, repainting of the cowl, hood, fenders and wheels, all new glass, a new top, boot and exterior trunk cover, and new tires. Upon completion, it was judged at 96.5 points, taking First Place in the Custom Senior Division at the January 2011 CCCA National Grand Classic at Palm Beach, Florida. The car is painted in two shades of blue and wears late-style skirted fenders. Inside there is a black leather interior.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Amelia Island sale presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $275,000 - $375,000. Bidding reached $210,000 but was not enough to satisfy the vehicle's reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2012