Waltham Orient Buckboard

Lot details
Registration No: SV 5214
Chassis No: 0007
Mot Expiry: None

Designed by Leonard B. Gaylord - an employee of the Waltham Manufacturing Co. - the Orient Buckboard was patented in March 1903. Based around a flat wooden board that served as both chassis and suspension mdeium, the model was brilliant in its simplicity. Powered by a single-cylinder 4hp air-cooled engine, it was reputedly capable of over 30mph. Riding on wire wheels, the Buckboard weighed just 400lbs. For years America's cheapest car, it could be had for as little as $337. Progressively developed, the two-seater became increasingly 'luxurious' (exchanging tiller for wheel steering and gaining a bonnet to shield the occupants' feet etc) until production ceased in 1908. Of the 2,500 Buckboards that the Waltham Museum estimates were built, less than sixty are thought to have survived worldwide.

Retaining its natural wood finish save for some sparse black upholstery and red painted running gear, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "OK" (electrical equipment, chassis, wheels / tyres) or "good" (engine, transmission) condition. Apparently an American museum exhibit for seventy-odd years before it was imported to the UK during the 1980s, 'SV 5214' is said to have "competed in three of the Veteran Car Club's London-to-Brighton runs" with "the last one being 1992". Despite enduring another period of museum display since then, we are informed that the Buckboard has recently been "checked over and road tested" and is thus "ready for work".

Please note: The Veteran Car Club of Great Britain have contacted us to say that they believe this vehicle was manufactured in late 1905 or 1906. Their opinion is based not on a first-hand inspection but on photographs.