1937 | Triumph Vitesse 14/60

Originally designed by two leading lights of British motorcar design, Walter Belgrove who put triumph at the forefront of style in 1937 and Donald Healey famous for racing and rallying success and who certainly needs no further introduction, this fine example was originally purchased by Mr. F. Richardson from 'Glovers of Ripon and Harrogate' on 16th December 1937, for £38/16/6. At the time, Motorsport magazine judged the Triumph 'an excellent all-round car with outstanding appeal to the sportsman who wishes to purchase dependable, comfortable transport as well as entertainment and who has an eye for modern though dignified lines in keeping with efficient performance'. Mr Richardson then enjoyed it thoroughly before parking it up as he approached his 70th year. Some 25 years later, Mr. Keith Snowdon discovered it and rescued it although sadly, by then, the roof had collapsed and the Dolomite was in very poor condition, although still carrying just 28,000 miles.

In 1998, now in the ownership of a Mr. Alan Davis, a restoration was embarked upon that would take several years to complete. Rob Green of Gloria Coachworks, probably the world-authority on the restoration of pre-war Triumph motorcars, undertook the major works. The hand-crafted aluminium-over-ash coachwork was removed from the chassis and the chassis itself completely restored to as-new condition with details now to include a fully operational chassis lubrication system. The frame was replaced with new ash and the alloy body panels again fully integrated. The interior was also extensively re-trimmed to the original specifications and carried out with supreme attention to detail that includes the exquisite art deco door cards, leather detailing surrounding the rear window and the roof area.

Originally a 1½ litre engine, this car now has 1,767cc unit with twin SU carburettors with drive supplied through a rebuilt gearbox and differential that was replaced with a higher ratio unit resulting in better cruising speeds at lower engine revs making this car much more usable on today's roads. All the internal and external lights are fully functional and the additional indicators, front and rear, are in addition to the original working illuminated semaphore units. The delightful factory-ordered 'Mellowtone' horns, that sound either loud or soft on operation of the select button on the steering wheel, now work as designed. The coachwork is finally in excellent order and presented, once again, in Willow Green and complemented by the green leather seats and well-finished woodwork. A useful sunroof operates easily for those sunny days.

Since then, this wonderful example of the pre-war Dolomite, so well recognised for its flowing art deco-style 'waterfall' radiator, has been kept in a Carcoon within dry storage and used sparingly by its previous owner with the car enjoying an equally pampered life by the current vendor. In addition to this, an extensive history file contains photographs of the car when found as well as detailing the restoration. The original sales invoice and buff logbook are also present as well as period road-test reports, service data and a useful period 'Triumph Cars' maintenance book by T.P. Postlethwaite. Detailed invoicing of parts purchased and works carried out total in the region of an incredible £60,000 confirming a no-expense spared attitude to the restoration and maintenance of this fine example. This Dolomite stands out by its striking Art Deco forged alloy grille and handsome lights, new radial tyres and horns at the front. This magnificent pre-war Triumph is reported to be a delight to drive and, once again, a wonderful piece of automotive art. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 1937
Make: Triumph
Model: Dolomite Short Chassis Saloon
Registration: CWR 860
Chassis No: 23/1/1407
Engine No: DR14/3620
Mileage: 7,566


* A very special car and supreme example with classic 'Waterfall' grille

* Very rare short chassis saloon

* Restored by leading marque expert