1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Convertible Victoria

Darrin designed and built roughly 10 custom Duesenbergs, this was likely the last one built on the short 142.5-inch wheelbase supercharged SJ Chassis. The Convertible Victoria was ordered by E.Z. Sadovich and delivered in May 1935 to Enzo Fiermonte and his wife Madeliene, the former Mrs. John Jacob Astor of New York, NY.

The current owner purchased this car in March of 1967 from Mr. E.J. Welker of Hazel Park, Michigan, making him the fourth owner. Some outstanding features include a Bijur Lubricating system, which automatically services the car every 80 miles. Also includes an Ammeter adjustable brake pedal pressure lever, an oil pressure gauge, a tachometer, A split-second Jaeger stock clock, and an altimeter.

This Duesenberg is a national Senior AACA Grand Champion and won the Rolex Award for the Automobile of 'Timeless Elegance' at Amelia Island.

The chassis and engine were built in Indianapolis, IN, at a cost of $8,500. The total price when new with coachwork was $25,000.

The outstanding features of the car include a Bijur lubrication system, which automatically services the car every 80 miles. The first known indicator lights are located on the engine turned nick dash denoting changing of oil, chassis lubrication, and battery care. Other features include an ammeter, adjustable brake pedal pressure lever, oil pressure gauge, tachometer, split-second Jaegor stop clock, and altimeter. The wrap-around brass band is original to the car. The gasoline fill is located in the trunk in a locked leather box. Note the rear backing light and the STOP light.

The first four-wheel hydraulic brakes were designed by Mr. Duesenberg in 1921 and are featured on this car. For hill climbing ability, the car was capable of 90 mph in 2nd gear. A mercury vile-balanced crankshaft was used to ensure smooth engine operation. The horsepower was rated at 265 and 360 when supercharged. A tubular rear axle was used to provide great strength and lightweight.