Beschreibung:

In 1933, Pierce-Arrow debuted the Pierce Silver Arrow, one of the most advanced and dramatic concept cars ever shown publicly. Meanwhile, that year's production models featured valanced fenders, the only major visual change distinguishing them from their 1932 counterparts. Behind the scenes, though, things had been going wrong for the Pierce-Arrow/Studebaker combine almost from the first. Studebaker management had painted the firm into a financial corner and, in March 1933, the venerable company went into receivership. A group of Buffalo businessmen returned ownership of Pierce-Arrow to its hometown, paying $1,000,000 for the privilege. The 1933 eight-cylinder Pierce-Arrow Series 836 was offered in regular and extended wheelbase sub-series. A full range of body styles was offered on the 136" wheelbase, while the extended 139-inch wheelbase chassis offered only special sedan and limousine styles. These bodies for these models were specially lengthened and equipped with jump seats to comfortably accommodate seven passengers. The offered car is an example of the 139" extended wheelbase 836. Based on its serial number, it is a very late 1933 car, having been produced only 12 units before the last of the 2,152 Pierce-Arrows built for 1933 left the line. A 135hp Pierce-Arrow straight-eight powered all 836 models. The 1933 Pierce-Arrow engines were the first in the industry to feature hydraulic valve tappets, which promoted quiet operation and reduced maintenance. According to information provided by the former owner, this 139" wheelbase Pierce-Arrow Limousine was delivered new to a Korean Prince, during the period when that nation was under Japanese colonial rule. He later lived in Japan, making his home at the location where the Akasaka Prince hotel is now located. The Pierce-Arrow was transferred to Japan with the Prince, who reportedly used it there until 1945, when the royal limousine was hidden away in a garage. It remained in storage until 1980, when it was discovered, and subsequently obtained, by one of the most prestigious private motor museums in Japan. After coming into museum ownership, the Pierce-Arrow was sent to New Zealand, where its paint, chrome and interior were renewed while its chassis mechanicals were also overhauled. It was then put into the museum near Tokyo, where it remained until 2008 when it was sold by Bonhams to the current owner. On acquisition the car was sent to renowned pre-war American engineer Brian Joseph of Classic and Exotic Service in Detroit. Some $25,000 was spent in thoroughly reviewing the car mechanically, overhauling the car's brakes, renewing its wiring and generally sorting it so that it could be driven and shown. Since that time it has been shown at Meadowbrook Hall Concours and was the subject of an article in a regional car club magazine.