So sad...I saw a 1953 Eldorado yesterday

[Johnny F #662]

Not only would a junkie paint job do nothing but set the car way back,I'll bet that car has a very interesting history as well. the original owner may have been someone well known in the area as there was only one,yes,one 53 eldorado sold new in Vermont. this car may have been passed on down thru the years,and the current owner may well feel that he is preserving a piece of local history.

There is no denying that this and the rest of the '53 Eldo have an interesting history behind them.  Also to be fair, none of us know what the owner's intentions are with this car.  I have been pessimistic and suggested that this car might end up in the crusher.  Hopefully I am entirely wrong.

He may also not have 250k to do a proper restoration,and of course,that investment would not,in most cases produce a correct end product anyway,like the 59 biarritz restored by RM complete with olds buckets,and blue hood springs at a cost of 175k.

Who does have the 250K?  All I am suggesting is that I think the car could be cosmetically upgraded at a sensible price.  I have done this myself on occasion.  As already stated, within the owners budget, a simple paint job, new seat covers, new carpeting would get the car just as many oohs and ahhs as the top dollar restoration.

 

Final thought,that guy probably enjoys that car a TON more than the guy in the helicopter who owns 100 bright shiny redone cars that he has a caretaker rag down once a month! Bill

Don't be sucked into believing that.  The saying that money doesn't bring happiness was started by the rich, to discourage the poor from getting their money.  I find it ironic that you make a statement such as that on a CADILLAC message board, due to the fact that I would think that most of us first had the love of the marquee, as a symbol of showing we have arrived, rather then its engineering accomplishments.

[Johnny F #662]

That's the answer,your cars looked good to others,this guy enjoys the car for himself,period.

Just as clarification, I did the "cosmetics" for myself not for others.  The fact that others liked the car, added to the pleasure of driving the car.  Again, as I have stated quite often already, the owner is entitled to enjoy the car in any way he sees fit.  I am merely voicing my thoughts on the subject, which I also have right to do, and yes I more then welcome any thinking different then mine.

[Johnny F #662]

[/quote]Me too but I doubt this car gets any less attention and I'll bet anyone that actually knowswhat the car is practically kremes their paints when they see it especially as they'd probably lock up and high tail it after the 53 thinking they were gonna get it off the old man for $600 and 3 part chewed toffees!
[/quote]

It is my contention, that to the average person seeing this car, including old car enthusiasts, except Cadillac enthusiasts, really don't know the significance and importance of this car, which by the way is the reason for my feelings about this car.  If it was a just a Series 62 convertible, I probably wouldn't even bother to respond to this post.  I see '53 Eldo as one of the most important models in Cadillac's history.

[wrefakis]

Status is why the helicopter boys just throw dough at the cars,and care little about the history of them,nor have any inclination to preserve them,after 39 years at this,I know many of the biggest money guys in the hobby,and almost to a man,the only thing the care about is how much more they have than the next guy. I myself prefer low mileage original cars,and just enjoy them for myself,rather than trying to one up anyone else,I would bet that how the eldo owner feels,you know,any one of these trump dudes can build a car from a parts bin,but how many real original ones can you find? I have lokked at many multi-million dollar collections that did not have a good car in the entire group,just your auction ready junk.

[Johnny F #662]

Status is why the helicopter boys just throw dough at the cars,and care little about the history of them,nor have any inclination to preserve them,after 39 years at this,I know many of the biggest money guys in the hobby,and almost to a man,the only thing the care about is how much more they have than the next guy. I myself prefer low mileage original cars,and just enjoy them for myself,rather than trying to one up anyone else,I would bet that how the eldo owner feels,you know,any one of these trump dudes can build a car from a parts bin,but how many real original ones can you find? I have looked at many multi-million dollar collections that did not have a good car in the entire group,just your auction ready junk.

I think you are painting with a broad brush "the rich and their cars".  Wouldn't you agree that Jay Leno, doesn't fit into this category?  Sure there are those with mega bucks, that want to "have the most toys", but most of their "toys" are of newer years.  I personally know a few members of the club, that have extensive collections of automobiles, and have them for the pleasure of the cars, and not as "status symbols".

[Stewart Homan]

Me too but I doubt this car gets any less attention and I'll bet anyone that actually knowswhat the car is practically kremes their paints when they see it especially as they'd probably lock up and high tail it after the 53 thinking they were gonna get it off the old man for $600 and 3 part chewed toffees!
[/quote]

It is my contention, that to the average person seeing this car, including old car enthusiasts, except Cadillac enthusiasts, really don't know the significance and importance of this car, which by the way is the reason for my feelings about this car.  If it was a just a Series 62 convertible, I probably wouldn't even bother to respond to this post.  I see '53 Eldo as one of the most important models in Cadillac's history.
[/quote]

Well you've answered your own question. It is just as imprtant for this car to be preserved the way it is as it is to have a fully done show car or a stunning original - were the time to come that many 53 Eldo's were to be gathered in the same place - lets say the 75th anniversary of the car imagine how people would swoon over the black car and remembering what it was like to find them in that condition 'back in the day'!

It would be a real treat amongst a load of (still great) multi-million dollar auto's!

[wrefakis]

I do not know jay leno,and of course,there are some big bucks guy's who love and know the cars,but,I have known a large number of them who just jumped in because it was the thing at the moment,and at the end of the day,if they enjoy it at that level,fine,same with the guy who takes down all the 200 year old trees to build his 28k sq ft house,im sure he will use all that room,and the trees were in the way, for me,I just enjoy survivors,the more original the better,there are photos of my 59 biarritz on the clc gallery and my 10k 70 convert as well,and the 70 would ride better with radials on it,but as long as I own it,the original unyroyals will have to do!

[Johnny F #662]

Well you've answered your own question. It is just as imprtant for this car to be preserved the way it is as it is to have a fully done show car or a stunning original - were the time to come that many 53 Eldo's were to be gathered in the same place - lets say the 75th anniversary of the car imagine how people would swoon over the black car and remembering what it was like to find them in that condition 'back in the day'!

It would be a real treat amongst a load of (still great) multi-million dollar auto's!

The way it is?  With all the junk in it?

People swoon over it?  I don't think so.


This car fails to meet the purpose of the CLC, as its not being maintained, preserved or restored.  Its just being ridden around with nothing being done to it.

Our purpose

We were initially founded to encourage enthusiasts to maintain, preserve, and restore collectible Cadillacs and LaSalles built from 1902-1942. Now the CLC recognizes all vehicles built by Cadillac. We promote the development, collection, publication and exchange of helpful information pertaining to our cars. We also promote social fellowship for club members.

[Johnny F #662]

I just enjoy survivors

Survivor?  This car is one step away from being on life support.

,the more original the better,

So considering that this car is a far cry from the way it looked when it left Clark Street, can I assume that you aren't all that thrilled with it?

[wrefakis]

Sorry,I would enjoy a walk thru a junk yard more than looking at wavy sided 2 stage paint,incorrect interior,"SHOW CARS"but,that's just me,and that's what makes the hobby fun,there is something for everyone,hey,back in 72 at 18,I passed a hemi cuda for a 69 sdv because I loved cadillac's,but,that was,that is   ME

[Johnny F #662]

Sorry,I would enjoy a walk thru a junk yard more than looking at wavy sided 2 stage paint,incorrect interior,"SHOW CARS"but,that's just me,and that's what makes the hobby fun,there is something for everyone,hey,back in 72 at 18,I passed a hemi cuda for a 69 sdv because I loved cadillac's,but,that was,that is   ME

I think we are covering a few different factors concerning the hobby.  I would be the last one to debate about a person's personal tastes, likes and dislikes.  To each his own, I say.

My only point is about this particular '53 Eldo.  Myself I see the '53 Eldo as "The Holy Grail" of Cadillacs.  If all things were to be equal, I would be hard pressed to decide if I had to choose between a V-16 Dual Cowl Phaeton or a '53 Eldo but that's ME.  Even though the late 50's Broughams were more rare, and more luxurious, IMHO I think the '53 Eldo were more significant to Cadillac's History.  Of course this is in no way a knock on other great models throughout Cadillacs history, again, just my opinion, and after all the only opinion that counts to a person, is their own.

[Stewart Homan]

People swoon over it?  I don't think so.




I know so fella! Anyone who wouldn't would have their head where the sun don't shine!

It's a great car and great to see it like that as is looking at perfect ones. I like Bill prefer a Diamond in the rough, you on the other feel they should be perfectly restored to better (!) than when they left the factory - it's what makes the world go round! Nite!

[Johnny F #662]

People swoon over it?  I don't think so.




I know so fella! Anyone who wouldn't would have their head where the sun don't shine!

It's a great car and great to see it like that as is looking at perfect ones. I like Bill prefer a Diamond in the rough, you on the other feel they should be perfectly restored to better (!) than when they left the factory - it's what makes the world go round! Nite!

Now you see Stewart my friend, no where in all my post did I ever mention that this car should be restored.  At best all I said is that it would be nice if a couple of bucks were spent on it, to make it more presentable. I have even stated that I prefer seeing cars in a state of originality as close as the day they left the assembly line.   And yes this is Diamond in the rough, a real rough Diamond that should be in the hands of a someone that would take more pride in what they have.  Are you obvious to all the great parts that are on this car?  Have you priced one of them windshields lately, not to mention the parade boot and all the chrome trim?  The overall condition of this important car, does not warrant the way its being displayed and treated. Cinderella's Wicked Step Mother took better care of her.  This car is being treated like Snow White was treated by the Wicked Queen.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

The way it is?  With all the junk in it?
People swoon over it?  I don't think so.
This car fails to meet the purpose of the CLC, as its not being maintained, preserved or restored.  Its just being ridden around with nothing being done to it.
Our purpose
We were initially founded to encourage enthusiasts to maintain, preserve, and restore collectible Cadillacs and LaSalles built from 1902-1942. Now the CLC recognizes all vehicles built by Cadillac. We promote the development, collection, publication and exchange of helpful information pertaining to our cars. We also promote social fellowship for club members.

Gee, I hope the bloke doesn't attempt to join the CLC as it would be a shame to have to deny him membership on the grounds that he isn't caring for his car.

Bruce.

[Fred Zwicker #23106]

   I once bought a 1929 Model A Pickup for $150 (and drove it home). This was back in the late 50s or early 60s. I had this truck for over 25 years.  The first year, I pulled the engine and had it completely rebuilt and I gradually restored it mechanically. Eventually I worked on the body (took body off) and got it all back together and in primer. Still in primer, I then started to drive the truck back and forth to work and used it as what it was - a pickup truck.  Since this was my first pickup, I found all kinds of uses for as truck, even with the very small bed.  I drove it everywhere - took it to the golf course, picked up some lumber, hauled trash, took it shopping, and to a couple of local shows. You would be surprised at the nice comments from those seeing a vehicle in that condition.  After about 2 years of this, I finally had it professionally repainted in original Rock Moss Green with black fenders (lacquer).  It was then so beautiful that I no longer took it to the golf course, shopping, etc.  Heck, I couldn't even haul trash anymore. Instead I bought a nice cover and kept it under cover for most of the next 20 years.  Come to think of it, this is what I have done with other cars as well - "restored and then too good to drive" - does this sound familiar?

Thinking back, the first two years of enjoyment with the pickup were two of the best years I ever had with any of my antique cars.  I really used to enjoy pulling in a gas station (they had attendants back then) and telling the attendant to "fill it up".  Then the search began as 9 out of 10 could not find the gas cap (it was in the center of the cowl behind the windshield as most probably know).  One time when I took the truck to the golf course, one of my golfing buddies started making fun of the truck and asked how fast it would go.  I told him 55 and he bet me $5 that it would not even do 50.  So on the way home we checked it out.  He was behind me in his new Buick and after I got it up to 52, I pulled off the road and he pulled up behind me and handed me a five, which was quite a bit of money back in the late 50s.  He also never made fun of my truck again.

So maybe this guy with the 1953 Eldorado is right and we are wrong ??   He may be doing what secretly we all should consider - enjoying a car and not worrying about trophies.  Give him credit - he takes it to a show.  He might be a millionaire in disguise with more than ample funds to do a full restoration but prefers to enjoy the car in its present condition. We don't know.  However from looking at the pictures of the car, I think back about the antique vehicles that I have owned.  The ones that were not perfect and were driven regularly were the ones that I enjoyed most.   I am glad that the pictures and story were posted and hope that the owner has many more years of enjoyment driving this car "as-is".   And don't worry about the relatives.  If this time comes, they will soon figure out the true value of this car and get their just rewards (it won't end up at the crusher either). I also want to invite the owner into our club if he is not already a member.  Why not bring it to the GN as well?  Tell me that you would not take a good look if he did.  Anyone can find and purchase a restored car, but how many of these show up today?

Fred

Picture of my Model A Pickup taken many years ago at a local show - Moderators - feel free to delete picture, as it is not a Cadillac!

[Johnny F #662]

People swoon over it?  I don't think so.




I know so fella! Anyone who wouldn't would have their head where the sun don't shine!

It's a great car and great to see it like that as is looking at perfect ones. I like Bill prefer a Diamond in the rough, you on the other feel they should be perfectly restored to better (!) than when they left the factory - it's what makes the world go round! Nite!

Stewart my good friend, you too are misquoting me.  I never once suggested that it be restored to better then new.  The most I have said is that I think, because of its importance to Cadillac history, it should be displayed better.  Through a series of events, this car has gone from being the pinnacle of Cadillacs to being sort of like homeless person on the street in need of help.  If the owner has no desire to do anything at all with this car, that's his prerogative.  I just would hope he would display it with the dignity it deserves.

[Johnny F #662]

The way it is?  With all the junk in it?
People swoon over it?  I don't think so.
This car fails to meet the purpose of the CLC, as its not being maintained, preserved or restored.  Its just being ridden around with nothing being done to it.
Our purpose
We were initially founded to encourage enthusiasts to maintain, preserve, and restore collectible Cadillacs and LaSalles built from 1902-1942. Now the CLC recognizes all vehicles built by Cadillac. We promote the development, collection, publication and exchange of helpful information pertaining to our cars. We also promote social fellowship for club members.

Gee, I hope the bloke doesn't attempt to join the CLC as it would be a shame to have to deny him membership on the grounds that he isn't caring for his car.

Bruce.

You mean much like the modifieds are denied from receiving awards at Grand Nationals?

[Johnny F #662]

  I once bought a 1929 Model A Pickup for $150 (and drove it home). This was back in the late 50s or early 60s. I had this truck for over 25 years.  The first year, I pulled the engine and had it completely rebuilt and I gradually restored it mechanically. Eventually I worked on the body (took body off) and got it all back together and in primer. Still in primer, I then started to drive the truck back and forth to work and used it as what it was - a pickup truck.  Since this was my first pickup, I found all kinds of uses for as truck, even with the very small bed.  I drove it everywhere - took it to the golf course, picked up some lumber, hauled trash, took it shopping, and to a couple of local shows. You would be surprised at the nice comments from those seeing a vehicle in that condition.  After about 2 years of this, I finally had it professionally repainted in original Rock Moss Green with black fenders (lacquer).  It was then so beautiful that I no longer took it to the golf course, shopping, etc.  Heck, I couldn't even haul trash anymore. Instead I bought a nice cover and kept it under cover for most of the next 20 years.  Come to think of it, this is what I have done with other cars as well - "restored and then too good to drive" - does this sound familiar?

Thinking back, the first two years of enjoyment with the pickup were two of the best years I ever had with any of my antique cars.  I really used to enjoy pulling in a gas station (they had attendants back then) and telling the attendant to "fill it up".  Then the search began as 9 out of 10 could not find the gas cap (it was in the center of the cowl behind the windshield as most probably know).  One time when I took the truck to the golf course, one of my golfing buddies started making fun of the truck and asked how fast it would go.  I told him 55 and he bet me $5 that it would not even do 50.  So on the way home we checked it out.  He was behind me in his new Buick and after I got it up to 52, I pulled off the road and he pulled up behind me and handed me a five, which was quite a bit of money back in the late 50s.  He also never made fun of my truck again.

So maybe this guy with the 1953 Eldorado is right and we are wrong ??   He may be doing what secretly we all should consider - enjoying a car and not worrying about trophies.  Give him credit - he takes it to a show.  He might be a millionaire in disguise with more than ample funds to do a full restoration but prefers to enjoy the car in its present condition. We don't know.  However from looking at the pictures of the car, I think back about the antique vehicles that I have owned.  The ones that were not perfect and were driven regularly were the ones that I enjoyed most.   I am glad that the pictures and story were posted and hope that the owner has many more years of enjoyment driving this car "as-is".   And don't worry about the relatives.  If this time comes, they will soon figure out the true value of this car and get their just rewards (it won't end up at the crusher either). I also want to invite the owner into our club if he is not already a member.  Why not bring it to the GN as well?  Tell me that you would not take a good look if he did.  Anyone can find and purchase a restored car, but how many of these show up today?

Fred

Picture of my Model A Pickup taken many years ago at a local show - Moderators - feel free to delete picture, as it is not a Cadillac!

First of all I don't think there is any right or wrong with this car.  I can't speak for others, but as far as I am concerned, I am merely voicing my opinion of the car and the way its being displayed.  The fact is that none of us know the owner, nor his intentions, both now and later, for the car.

While your story was interesting, it really isn't apples with apples.  To begin with, while they were both old cars, I think most would agree their is a vast difference between a '29 Ford pickup and a '53 Eldo, least of all the age difference.  When you got the pickup, it was 30 years old, this Eldo is now 55 years old.

[Robert]

  I just spent three years and a lot of money fixing the rust holes and the motor in in my car . Why do any of us ever restore these cars ? It is better to watch them rust away

and get all nostalgic because that is what they looked like years ago . I see now I should have left it in "original" condition .

Do they have an "original , looks like someone is living in it "  award  at at the GN this car would win . Got to agree with Johnny , it is an important car

and if the guy likes it the way it is , great , but would be nice to see it cared for a little more .

Robert

[Barry M Wheeler #2189]

Ahah! But we did. In fact, I thought at first this was the same car the other Past Presidents and I judged at the 1990 GN. Except the grill on this one is much better. We awarded the "middle" year catagory to a black 1953 Cadillac Eldorado that was all original, including tatty top as one of the best "original" Cadillac/LaSalles at the meet. Parts of the grill were almost black from the Korean War chrome, the interior, while not trash covered was not the best. Only one (the RF I believe) fender had been repainted. Otherwise, the car was all original and being totally enjoyed by the owner. (And, it also attracted a lot of attention!)
We have also given an original award to a yellow CDV with a big crease down the RH door. A car does not have to be a "perfect" original to win this preservation award.
The fact that we still do have nearly perfect cars is simply amazing, and attending to these cars at the GN is one of the best perks of the "job" of being a senior statesman.