The Duesenberg, a car known the world around as one of the finest of its era, was a symbol of style, class and money. Back in the 1920s and 1930s, wealthy businessmen and Hollywood royalty opted for these handmade, American-built sleek beauties. Given their rarity, you are likely to only see them if you happen by one at a concours d’elegance or get access to Jay Leno’s garage. However, if you hurry over to the Lyon Air Museum, you will get the opportunity to see up close and personal several of these luxurious machines at a special exhibit, extended through September 7, 2015. The opportunity to see these elegant automobiles is truly a treat for the eyes.
The Exhibit
Some of the beauties in the exhibit include:
1929 Model J LeBaron Phaeton
Dolores Del Rio’s 1932 Duesenberg SJ Murphy Town Car
1931 Model J Weymann “Taper Tail” Speedster
1931 SJ Murphy Convertible Coupe
A gorgeous 1931 Model J Fernandez and Darrin Convertible Victoria once owned by Indian and Nepalese royalty
1935 SJ Gurney Nutting Speedster
While looking at the sleek lines and luxurious appointments is a treat, looking at the details gives a little glimpse into how well-made these handmade, unique treasures are.
Next post, I’ll tell you a bit about the regular exhibits at the Lyon Air Museum, in case you venture by after the Duesenberg exhibit concludes. The museum is well worth a trip even if these fine cars are not in residence.
Lyon Air Museum
19300 Ike Jones Road
Santa Ana, CA
This is so close to home; I must go! It is so hard to choose a favorite. I think it's a toss-up between the two speedsters! Beautiful photos!
Don't go on a hot day or go early in the morning. There's no air in there. It was toasty! Thanks for the photo compliment. It was actually hard to take the pictures because they are so shiny. I kept getting myself reflected in them.
So that's where the saying "it's a duesy/doozey" might have evolved from. It might not as well, but I'm going to add it to my word nerd trivia bank!
Lovely photos, thank you for sharing.
Some say it did, others say no. I like to think it did. Thank you for the photo compliment.
Breathtaking rides! One can't help but feel looking at these luxurious yesteryear vehicles, that a uniform bedecked driver with a British accent should be on hand to pose with. 🙂
♥ Jessica
I know, aren't they dreamy? I'd give anything to ride in Dolores del Rio's.