From its landmark New York Auto Show debut on December 1, 1928, the Duesenberg Model J remains a crowning achievement of Classic Era design and engineering prowess as the product of the Indianapolis 500-winning Duesenberg brothers. Superlative in all respects, the Model J featured a 420 CI inline 8-cylinder engine producing 265 HP in its “basic” tune. Race-derived specifications included dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, hemispherical combustion chambers, power-assisted hydraulic brakes, and eventually, an optional supercharger. With two available wheelbase lengths measuring 142.5 and 153.5 inches, respectively, the Model J carried some of the most opulent custom coachwork ever built. Gordon Buehrig masterfully designed the basic Model J styling, with many of the finest custom coachbuilders on either side of the Atlantic applying their artistry to the Duesenberg chassis. One of the most handsome and sporting body styles was the adventurous “sweep panel” dual-cowl phaeton, initially designed and built by LeBaron. Seeking greater control over quality and higher profitability, Duesenberg president Harold T. Ames established LaGrande, an exclusive in-house coachbuilder with a similar design to that of LeBaron’s “sweep panel” dual cowl phaeton, refined by Buehrig and built at various locations under Union City Body Company, a Cord Corporation holding. According to published estimates, 29 LaGrande bodies were sold from 1931 to 1936. Based on the original Duesenberg Model J Chassis No. 2841, this 1932 Duesenberg Model J “Sweep Panel” Dual Cowl Phaeton in the style of LaGrande features a handsome and accurate restoration and retains many correct mechanical components. Among them are the long-wheelbase chassis (originally fitted to a long-dismantled Willoughby limousine), an unnumbered but authentic firewall, an engine with original bellhousing numbered J-474, and an original crankshaft numbered 417. These components were acquired by the prior owner as a package from noted Duesenberg enthusiast and rare-parts hunter George Albright, along with a high-quality recreation of a LaGrande “sweep panel” dual-cowl phaeton body, collectively a ready-to-build restoration project. The accompanying history file contains photographs depicting the original Model J chassis frame, as purchased by Albright at the Karl Kleve estate auction held in Ohio during 2005. The restoration was performed at Pebble Beach class winner and Model J expert Byard Libbey’s Classic Car Restoration Center in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Virtually no expense was spared in the restoration and build, which was completed shortly before the vehicle’s 2023 acquisition by the current owner and induction into their private collection. Unforgettably finished in tri-tone black, silver and scarlet livery, the Model J features later-production original Duesenberg skirted fenders. Other highlights include rich red leather upholstery, a correctly finished engine compartment and gleaming brightwork. Built and restored to be a beautiful and fully functional classic automobile, the Duesenberg was updated with a modern Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, yielding greater driving pleasure, usability and relaxed cruising. One of the most sophisticated, rare and desirable of all the greatest Full Classic automobiles recognized by the CCCA (Classic Car Club of America), the mighty Duesenberg Model J continues to reign as a true automotive icon in all possible respects. Expertly restored and beautifully presented, this “sweep panel” dual cowl phaeton will surely provide a thrilling entry to any show, concours and touring event the new owner should ever choose to participate in.
