1953 Buick Skylark
Call for price
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Body
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Convertible
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Transmission
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Automatic
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Exterior Color
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White
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Upholstery
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Leather
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Steering
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Lhd
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1953 BUICK SKYLARK
Buick first displayed the Skylark as a General Motors Motorama show car in 1952, and it was essentially a factory-built “sport custom” based on the Roadmaster Convertible platform. 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 - all techniques being used by California’s customizers during the same period. Notably, the styling lacked Buick’s trademark “ventiports” on the front fenders, lending it a clean and sporty look that helped it stand apart from the rest of the line.
A production version of the Skylark was introduced the following year alongside the Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Fiesta, with each limited-production top-of-the-line model representing the very best of the era’s styling and luxury. These three remarkable luxury sport limited production convertibles are sometimes referred to as the “Triple Crown” of 1953 GM range. Celebrating Buick’s 50th anniversary, the Skylark was essentially a hand-built car customized for each new owner, with a $5,000 price tag helping to limit sales to just 1,690 units. It also introduced the marque’s first modern overhead-valve V-8, also called the “Nailhead,” which could produce 188 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque.
While the Skylark name would continue as a limited-production model for 1954 and would reappear in Buick’s hierarchy for decades, the 1953 model is generally considered the most desirable by collectors, approaching iconic status for fans of 50s American Iron.
A significant member of the heralded “Triple Crown” of Harley Earl-styled General Motors 1953 convertibles, this Skylark convertible is a marvelous example of what many consider to be Earl’s finest production convertible design. Presented in its original factory color combination of Majestic White with a contrasting thinly pleated red with white stitching-and-white leather interior, the car was restored quite some time ago, yet remains in excellent condition today thanks to years of attentive care. The attractive interior also features the factory-correct Di-Noc patterned metal dash that holds a beautifully designed round speedometer cluster, gauges, clock and stylish chrome knobs with a pushbutton radio and large ribbed speaker grill at the center. A contrasting black cloth convertible top makes for an elegant combination.
The body wears smooth and glossy paintwork highlighted by glistening chrome and brightwork, which have aged gracefully since the restoration was completed. The engine bay is detailed with proper paint finishes, clamps, harnesses, and decals appearing in the right places. This stylish Skylark is complemented by a set of correct Kelsey-Hayes forty-spoke wire wheels wrapped in correct wide whitewall tires. A continental spare at the rear of the car shows off another one of the fabulous wire wheels.
Rare, top-of-the-line and stylish, this 1953 Buick Skylark is a feast for the eyes. With the legendary and powerful “Nailhead” V-8 and smooth Dynaflow automatic transmission, this Buick is a pleasure to operate as well. It’s nicely mellowed restoration makes it ideally suited for touring, automotive gatherings and club events, this Skylark is a wonderful example of one of the most desirable Buicks ever produced and would make an exciting addition to any collection.
Offers welcome and trades considered
$105,000
STOCK NUMBER 7563
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