1915 Simplex Crane Model 5 Tourer

1915 Simplex Crane Model 5 Tourer

Crane Motor Car Company of New Jersey once held the distinction of being the most expensive automobile built in the United States. In 1912, a Crane Model 3 cost an astonishing $8000 without a body; this at a time when median income in America was just $687. While no doubt costly, at least it offered quality and performance few could match. Henry Middlebrook Crane had indeed designed a magnificent machine worthy of the most discerning clientele; with its L-head six-cylinder making an astonishing 100 horsepower. Given the eye-watering cost, it is no surprise that only approximately 40 Crane Model 3s were sold, followed by just a few Model 4s. Henry Crane only lasted on his own from 1912-1915 when he was bought out by Simplex, another high-end motorcar manufacturer known for large, powerful machinery. Henry Crane was kept on as a vice president and his successor to the Model 4 was rebadged as a Simplex Crane. Using an improved version of the L-Head six-cylinder engine, now making 110hp, the new car was still of the same exceptional quality and performance. The partnership of Simplex and Crane only existed for four short years, with roughly 475-500 cars produced over that time. Yet in spite of such tiny production numbers, the marque stands with the likes of Rolls-Royce, Locomobile and Stutz as one of the most prestigious and collectible motorcars of the period.

Wearing sporty and unique bodywork with exquisite presentation, this 1915 Simplex Crane Model 5 is an outstanding example from this storied American marque.

Descriptions & pictures by conceptcarz & bonhams & hymanltd