Time travellers from Walter Miller’s estate

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When you are in for an American PreWarCar, RM Sotheby's Auburn Fall sale on September the 3rd really is one to follow. The number of vehicles on offer is quite overwhelming, with no less than 43 cars from before 1940. We can only describe a few of those vehicles here, so let’s have a look at what we believe to be the more remarkable lots.

Because of their patinated looks, we fell for the cars coming from the Walter Miller estate. Miller, who passed away last year at only 66, was a very well-known figure in automobilia-circles, who famously ran ‘Autolit’ offering hundreds of thousands of motoring literature items. We’re sure many of you found your way to his shop, be it online or not.

It was not just automobilia though. Miller owned a 39-strong car collection as well, that is described as ‘completely eclectic’ and is offered entirely without reserve by the auctioneer. There is a 1928 Stutz Model BB Sedan in a very bright green hue and with a straight-eight engine. It looks to have been untouched for decades with all its lovely details. Just look at the pattern on the dashboard and the brass Stutz-badge on it. It is estimated to make $20,000 to $30,000 and you may notice that the back is full of boxes. ‘Includes selection of literature’, is all the auctioneer’s description says about it. It’s possibly one of Miller’s small treasure troves.

Another car with a similar appeal is the 1929 Cadillac 2/4-Passenger Convertible Coupe by Fisher from Miller’s estate. It’s green again and possibly with its original paintwork - another car we can only hope won’t be (over) restored. Take a look at its wooden wheels, shod with Firestone tyres – you won’t be able to find a set of those today. We also like the ‘golf club door’ on the passenger side and the amber gear knob. A genuine piece of time travel, estimated at $40,000 to $50,000.

Oldest of the Miller cars is a 1912 Chalmers Model 11-20, which once again comes in totally unspoilt condition, or so it seems. There are beautiful brass bits and pieces everywhere and just look at the crackling paint on those doors! Inside a little plaque is attached showing it took part in the 2nd annual Midwest Tour in Rapid City, South Dakota on August 6, 7, 8 and 9 in 1958. We would not be surprised to learn that this was actually the last tour this car took part in. That is what it looks like at least. Estimated at $18,000 to $25,000 it really is another beautiful piece of automotive history.

Words by Jeroen Booij. Pictures courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.

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