Buick collectors would walk a mile for a chance to view a 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible, the anniversary car that Buick designed just to show off. It was one of Harley Earl’s crowning achievements and one of the top ten great classic designs of all time. The one you see here is in the inventory at Bay City Motorcars of Bay City, Michigan. They tell us that the body is smooth with sculpted factory sheet metal and covered with glossy smooth white paint. The plentiful trim is all in excellent condition, and that the chrome has a clear deep reflection that is simply world-class. The black top is fresh and works properly, and is nicely capped by a red boot, according to their report.
Because it was a custom concept, the Skylark achieved a number of firsts for Buick. For instance, the Skylark had fully radiused rear wheel well openings. This was the first Buick V8 engine, 12-volt electrical system, low cut-down door “sweep” and much more. What set this new model apart were the long beveled moldings making the doors look even lower, and curvacious full fenders. Fenders, doors, and quarter panels were sectioned and modified by hand to create the perfect stance, along with a custom “chopped” and chromed convertible top look. Whether you are a Buick afficionado or not you have to appreciate what this car did for automotive design in its day.
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