RM Auction 2008 Scottsdale

RM Auction 2008 Arizona

The Bentley 4 1/2 Litre presented here was originally owned by Mr. A.F. Rollason in Great Britain before its purchase in the 1950s by Mr. Carl B. Seaman, Esq. of Columbus, Ohio. Correspondence between Mr. Rollason and Mr. Seaman indicates that the car had retained its original Vanden Plas body and was in 'first class condition'. It was further described as being of the Le Mans type, with a heavier chassis and underslung strengtheners. Apparently the original engine had recently been overhauled and the car had seen only limited road use since.

After its importation to the United States and its continued enjoyment by Mr. Seaman, the car was sold in 1961 to Mr. Robert H. Kimes, Jr. of Dayton, Ohio, who became quite an active member of the Bentley Drivers Club. According to correspondence contained in the extensive dossier that accompanies the car, shortly after its purchase, Kimes installed an electric fuel gauge on his Bentley, performed wiring work under its hood, and replaced a damaged wire spoke wheel. Letters received by Kimes described the car as a 'most desirable specimen'.

After engine trouble in 1962, the 4 1/2-liter engine was rebuilt by Ralph Buckley of Antique Auto Shop in Northfield, New Jersey. Mr. Kimes owned the car at least through until 1978, working on it himself, and frequently ordering spare parts from Britain's gaskets from Hoffman and Burton, and rubber seals from Creech Coachtrimming Centre in London. More recently, XF3505 was owned by Mr. Frank Alloca of New Jersey, who enjoyed it for many years after its tenure with Mr. Kimes. Within the last three years, the car has benefited from an extensive mechanical reconditioning, accumulating less than 1,000 miles since.

More recently, car was driven to a meeting of the Bentley Driver's Club and participated in the Colorado Grand. By all accounts, it is an excellent automobile and well suited for touring.

The car is presented in very original condition, from its engine and body panels to the upholstery and dash. The brightwork, which includes the radiator shell and headlamps, is very presentable, as is the quality of the black paint. Virtually every element is either period correct or part of the car's storied past. Signs of road use are readily apparent throughout, although this is to be expected from an active Tourer such as this.

Furthermore, this is one of the most extensively documented cars RM Auctions has ever had the pleasure of offering, with correspondence and paperwork dating back to the early 1950s. In addition to letters between previous owners and the Bentley Drivers Club, the documentation also includes service records and information for prospective restoration.

XF3505 is one of the rarest of all vintage automobiles, having never been restored nor ever required it. It virtually defines originality. Simply sitting in the car gives you a sense of its past in such things as the lovely patina of the leather, the shiny spot worn by the arms of a dozen caring owners, and the smooth grip of the steering wheel. The engine bay is lovely, but carries the soft slick glow of well-oiled machine, like a fine rifle, or a precision machine tool.

Considering the high concours standards to which many of today's classic cars are restored, it is a true delight to find this Bentley perfectly suited for continued touring and enjoyment. The daring Bentley Boys would have expected no less.

In USA in 2006 / Owned by a BDC & RROC member