1939 LaSalle Series 50 Convertible Sedan (by Bohman & Schwartz)
Pasadena coachbuilder Bohman & Schwartz was founded in 1932 by Christian Bohman and Maurice Schwartz, both former employees of the Walter M. Murphy Company following its closure. This one-off 1939 LaSalle Series 50 Convertible Sedan showcases their distinctive Art Deco craftsmanship applied to a General Motors chassis.
The firm was renowned for creating bespoke bodies for Hollywood’s elite, including Clark Gable and other celebrities. According to period accounts, this particular car was commissioned through the Don Lee Cadillac dealership, Cadillac’s exclusive West Coast distributor, after the buyer saw Clark Gable driving a Packard Darrin.
The car’s elegant design featured flowing fenders, a low beltline, and a dramatic grille treatment, finished originally in Opalescent Silver over Burgundy leather upholstery. During the 1950s, it appeared at several California concours events and even participated in the Tournament of Roses Parade before disappearing into long-term storage in Los Angeles for decades.
Power came from LaSalle’s 322 cubic inch (5.3-liter) L-head V8, producing 125 horsepower at 3,400 rpm, paired with a three-speed manual transmission. As Cadillac’s companion marque, LaSalle occupied the niche between Buick and Cadillac in General Motors’ hierarchy, offering Cadillac engineering at a more accessible price.
The 1939 model year represented the penultimate year of LaSalle production, as the brand would be discontinued after 1940.
A meticulous restoration by Quality Automotive of Cincinnati, Ohio returned the car to its original color scheme and condition. Following its restoration, it was displayed at the 2018 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
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