08.29.2015

IT’S A DUESEY – DUESENBERG’S AT THE LYON AIR MUSEUM

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.

Duesenberg

The Exhibit

Some of the beauties in the exhibit include:

Duesenberg 1929 Model J LeBaron Phaeton

My favorite of the exhibit – 1929 Model J Murphy Dual Cowl Phaeton

Previous owners included Cracker Jack founder John McCarthy and J.B. Nethercutt;

it was used in the film Annie.

Dolores Del Rio’s 1932 Duesenberg SJ Murphy Town Car

Dolores Del Rio’s view from her Town Car. Rather like my view from Greta Garbo’s gold compact.

Duesenberg 1931 Model J Weymann “Taper Tail” Speedster

Duesenberg 1931 SJ Murphy Convertible Coupe

Duesenberg A gorgeous 1931 Model J Fernandez and Darrin Convertible Victoria once owned by Indian and Nepalese royalty

Duesenberg 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.

Duesenberg

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

6 comments so far.

6 responses to “IT’S A DUESEY – DUESENBERG’S AT THE LYON AIR MUSEUM”

Mr. Tiny says:

08.29.2015 at 6:01 am

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!

Reply
- Ms Patricia Lynn says:
  
  08.29.2015 at 3:07 pm
  
  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.
  
  Reply
Fashionista says:

09.01.2015 at 12:23 am

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.

Reply
- admin says:
  
  09.03.2015 at 5:07 pm
  
  Some say it did, others say no. I like to think it did. Thank you for the photo compliment.
  
  Reply
Jessica Cangiano says:

09.01.2015 at 3:45 am

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

Reply
- admin says:
  
  09.03.2015 at 5:08 pm
  
  I know, aren't they dreamy? I'd give anything to ride in Dolores del Rio's.
  
  Reply