American Icons 1:43 Collection: 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible by Brooklin Models

Thursday, October 29, 2015

1953 Buick Skylark Convertible by Brooklin Models

The story may be apocryphal, but it is nevertheless, one of the most intriguing tales to come out of the automotive industry. It goes like this: one day in the 1951, the chief stylist of the General Motors' Buick division Ned Nickles, was at his desk doodling, making plans for customizing his own Buick Roadmaster. The general manager of the division, happened by and was impressed by what he saw. Realizing that the board of directors was looking for a special model to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the marque in 1953, Wiles decided on the spot to submit Nickles' doodles. The result was one of the 1950s most legendary cars: 1953 Buick Skylark. It was added to the Motorama line up for 1953 which included The Cadillac Eldorado, Buick Skylark, Oldsmobile Fiesta and Chevrolet Corvette.
Much of the body and engine work was done by hand thus accounting for the 5,000 price tag. The Skylark‘s exclusive nature was such that Buick engraved the original owner‘s name in silver on the tripartite medallion in the horn button.
The 1953 Skylark was released in a quantity of only 1.690. Consequently, this ultra-luxury full-size sports convertible once described as „The Million Dollar Ride“ is highly prized by collectors.
A model as handsome as the original. A dashing convertible with long ,flowing lines and extra low windshield. A two-way chromed „sweepspear“ began at the front wheels and dipped sharply ahead of the rear ones before „jumping“ over them and ending near twin „bullet“ taillights on each rear fender. Model finished in Ridge Green color featuring openable doors and hood , detailed Thunderbolt V-8 engine and chassis. A look inside shows authentic green and white upholstery with chrome-printed relief handles and trim on the door panels, detailed instruments, silver-painted switches, radio fascia, and steering wheel with chrome horn ring. The model of the first series of Franklin Mint does not have all the details, but the quality of chrome parts is excellent.
Despite the fact that it is a 25-year-old model, this Franklin Mint belongs to the generally very easy to find models.