A spectacular 1929 Duesenberg Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton has sold as top lot in RM Auctions' St John's sale, as part of the Concours d'Elegance of America.
 Jim Hoe is one of the legendary names in the illustrious history of Duesenberg |
Crossing the block on July 27 at the Inn at St John's, Plymouth, Michigan, the Duesenberg made $682,000.
The car comes with a fantastic heritage, having been one of the 250 Model Js handled by master mechanic Jim Hoe during his career. This was the example that Hoe modified for competition, bringing it up to a speed of 140mph, though it was reportedly capable of going faster.
Following Hoe's usage, it was passed to noted enthusiast and restorer Dee Howard, who installed a correct Duesenberg transmission and restored it to its original frame and drivetrain. He also gave the car an exact recreation of the Murphy Dual-Cowl Phaeton body.
With the project completed by the current owner, the result is a "better than new" Model J, which scored first prize in the Duesenberg Class at the 2010 Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club National Reunion. It has also achieved first in class at the Antique & Classic Car Club of Canada Concours.
A pair of Duesenberg Model Js will provide the highlight of Auctions America's sale at the 2013 Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival on August 29-September 1.
 The Deluxe Eight engine and chassis was offered with a total of 21 body styles, with six of these the work of Dietrich Inc |
Also selling well was a superb 1932 Packard Individual Custom Eight Convertible Victoria by Dietrich, which sold for $374,000.
A rare combination of Dietrich bodywork and the Deluxe Eight engine, it received an award-winning restoration from Mark Clayton to bring it up to the stunning condition it is in today.
Classic car collectors are currently readying themselves for the 2013 Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach, one of the biggest events on the car auction calendar. Preview the top models in our Classic Cars news section.
