Bentley - S1 Convertible - 1956
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Starting bid
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Description from the seller
GENERAL
The Bentley S1, introduced in 1955, marked the end of an era as the last model from the firm powered by the inline six-cylinder engine. This 1956 unit has exceptional provenance: it was purchased new by the renowned dealer Jack Barclay, who commissioned the prestigious coachbuilders James Young Ltd to convert this Two Door Convertible with aluminum panels to be exhibited at the Earls Court Motor Show of 1955. After a complete restoration by specialists, the car today presents itself in a virtually showroom-new condition, scrupulously respecting its unique display configuration.
CARROCERÍA Y PINTURA
The aluminum body, by James Young Ltd, wears a high-quality paint in Marine Blue with a deep, intense shine. The restoration stands out for the use of period artisan techniques, including the exhaust pipe fully lined in leather to minimize vibrations and noise. The James Young signature and the authenticity plate, and Jack Barclay, are present on the fenders, certifying its origin and the exclusivity of its coachwork.
MECÁNICA
The six-cylinder engine has been fully restored and delivers the smooth, quiet operation characteristic of the brand. Recently a carburation tune-up has been performed, ensuring optimal starting in any condition. The automatic transmission operates with total precision. A key detail is the choice of correct diagonal tires for the period, equipped with white walls. Due to limited use after restoration, it shows a small oil leak from inactivity and the braking system may require a final adjustment.
INTERIOR
The cabin, bearing James Young’s distinctive mark, is fully upholstered in Camel-colored leather, creating a classic contrast with the exterior. The noble woods have been restored maintaining their original grain and are in immaculate condition. The equipment includes electric windows on all four doors and compartments for bottles and glasses in the doors. All instrumentation is the original from the period, preserved and functional.
DOCUMENTACIÓN
The vehicle has all the necessary documentation for transfer. The quality of the intervention is visible even in the underbody, where the detail of hand-stitched leather on various mechanical components can be seen, reflecting the standard of a collectible unit. The car has been maintained by specialists experienced in the technical complexity of Bentleys of this series and the history of its special coachwork.
RECOGIDA
The car is located in Madrid, Spain. The seller offers a courtesy of 20 days of free storage in secure facilities after adjudication, thus facilitating the organization of specialized transport in line with the vehicle’s category.
OTRA INFORMACIÓN
This Bentley S1 is a singular collectible piece due to its history directly tied to the Jack Barclay dealership and the James Young Ltd coachbuilder, as well as its debut at Earls Court. Its current state, which emulates that of a factory-fresh unit, makes it an ideal candidate for the most demanding elegance events, representing a solid investment in British automotive heritage.
GENERAL
The Bentley S1, introduced in 1955, marked the end of an era as the last model from the firm powered by the inline six-cylinder engine. This 1956 unit has exceptional provenance: it was purchased new by the renowned dealer Jack Barclay, who commissioned the prestigious coachbuilders James Young Ltd to convert this Two Door Convertible with aluminum panels to be exhibited at the Earls Court Motor Show of 1955. After a complete restoration by specialists, the car today presents itself in a virtually showroom-new condition, scrupulously respecting its unique display configuration.
CARROCERÍA Y PINTURA
The aluminum body, by James Young Ltd, wears a high-quality paint in Marine Blue with a deep, intense shine. The restoration stands out for the use of period artisan techniques, including the exhaust pipe fully lined in leather to minimize vibrations and noise. The James Young signature and the authenticity plate, and Jack Barclay, are present on the fenders, certifying its origin and the exclusivity of its coachwork.
MECÁNICA
The six-cylinder engine has been fully restored and delivers the smooth, quiet operation characteristic of the brand. Recently a carburation tune-up has been performed, ensuring optimal starting in any condition. The automatic transmission operates with total precision. A key detail is the choice of correct diagonal tires for the period, equipped with white walls. Due to limited use after restoration, it shows a small oil leak from inactivity and the braking system may require a final adjustment.
INTERIOR
The cabin, bearing James Young’s distinctive mark, is fully upholstered in Camel-colored leather, creating a classic contrast with the exterior. The noble woods have been restored maintaining their original grain and are in immaculate condition. The equipment includes electric windows on all four doors and compartments for bottles and glasses in the doors. All instrumentation is the original from the period, preserved and functional.
DOCUMENTACIÓN
The vehicle has all the necessary documentation for transfer. The quality of the intervention is visible even in the underbody, where the detail of hand-stitched leather on various mechanical components can be seen, reflecting the standard of a collectible unit. The car has been maintained by specialists experienced in the technical complexity of Bentleys of this series and the history of its special coachwork.
RECOGIDA
The car is located in Madrid, Spain. The seller offers a courtesy of 20 days of free storage in secure facilities after adjudication, thus facilitating the organization of specialized transport in line with the vehicle’s category.
OTRA INFORMACIÓN
This Bentley S1 is a singular collectible piece due to its history directly tied to the Jack Barclay dealership and the James Young Ltd coachbuilder, as well as its debut at Earls Court. Its current state, which emulates that of a factory-fresh unit, makes it an ideal candidate for the most demanding elegance events, representing a solid investment in British automotive heritage.
Details
Brand
Bentley
Model type
S1 Convertible
Year
1956
Located in
Spain
Mileage reading
3000 mi
Registration papers
with Spanish registration
Transmission
Automatic
Fuel
Petrol
Colour
Blue
Horse power
160
Cubic capacity
4887
Matching numbers
Unknown
Matching colours
Unknown
Service book/history
No
Valid MOT
Yes
CoC (Certificate of Conformity) present
No
Condition (Paint & body)
Excellent: requiring no conventional body or paintwork
Condition (Interior)
Excellent: no missing, broken, or damaged parts that require replacement
Condition (Frame & underbody)
Very Good: frame/structure is in a well preserved condition, minor signs of usage/wear
Condition (Mechanical)
Very Good: mechanically sound, may require minor service
Condition (Overall)
Very good condition: minimal signs of wear
Vehicle registration
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Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
