1916 Crane-Simplex Model 5 Brewster Berline

This 1916 Simplex-Crane Model 5 Berline with chassis number 2445 is powered by a six-cylinder 564 cubic-inch engine and mated to a four-speed gearbox. The Brewster coachwork body sits atop a 143.5-inch wheelbase and was constructed from the finest materials available at the time. The odometer reads just 22,000 miles since new and the livery is Brewster Green with complementary original upholstery in the passenger compartment. Located just in front of the windshield are dual spotlights and a bulb horn. The carburetor is original; as is the Kellogg air pump and complete set of tools. It has factory-fitted luggage and the original trunk.

It has earned awards at both the Amelia Island and Greenwich Concours. The Brewster Custom Coachwork makes this vehicle unique and the company's low production figures make this a very exclusive automobile. It was offered for sale at the 2006 Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach where it was estimated to sell between $150,000-$200,000. Considering the rarity of these vehicles, the social elite who have owned them, and the excellent coachwork and engineering that went into creating these vehicles, it is a wonder that they do not fetch more at auction. This car was offered with a reserve that was not met; the car was left unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2007