2023-09-07 16:30:59 | pauls writes:

Car now offered at:

www.classic-trader.com/uk/cars/listing/jaguar/xk/xk-120-dhc/1953/348174

Seller's description:

Private seller

7775 PL Lutten

Netherlands

This Jaguar XK 120 DHC Sport left hand drive 3.5 liter, produced on June 22, 1953, is a truly unique vehicle, one of a kind. Still in original condition, almost rust-free and absolutely no restoration object. The first owner was actor Clark Gable, who bought this sports car on June 29, 1953 from dealer Hornburg on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood.

The 'grand old lady' has been in my possession for 25 years, I am the second owner. She was imported by myself from California USA in 1997 and driven exclusively by me, completely damage-free. This type of car is admitted to the Mille Miglia.

The reason I'm selling her now is that I can't ride it anymore due to problems with my hip.

Details:

Exterior colour: pastel green (light green) with beautiful patina.

Upholstery colour: suede green (dark green).

Top color: fawn (beige).

Battery: 12 Volt.

Stainless steel wire wheels.

Stainless steel exhaust.

As good as new Vredestein Classic tyres.

Matching numbers (see certificate).

Original Halda tripmaster.

Repairs:

Soft top with insulation and inner cover replaced in original color. Maintenance by myself in collaboration with Hans Koot Classic Car Preparation in Ter Apel. Battery and water pump replaced. Engine overhauled about 3000 km ago by Van Giersbergen Engine Overhaul in Silvolde. Carburetors overhauled by BCCP Fuelsystems in Gramsbergen. Front brakes replaced by disc brakes (original drum brakes with adapters still present).

Recommendation:

During the Goodwood Revival in 2014, Norman Dewis, Jaguar's legendary test pilot, urged me never to restore this green beauty.

In short:

Not a car for lovers of 'sleek in the paint' and shiny parts under the hood. But if you fall for true simplicity, pure beauty and no nonsense technology, you must have seen this special car. Be surprised by its originality, which is unique in the classic car world.

Bids from € 85,000 are seriously considered.

2023-09-08 06:15:22 | pauls writes:

Gable's car was grey. Proof of this car's provenance should be sought.

2023-09-10 21:32:01 | terry mcgrath writes:

very difficult for Gable to have purchased it on the 29th june as this was the same day it was shipped from the UK to America!

We will add this one to the list of 20 odd XK120's claimed to have been owned by Gable.

"Clark Gable, who bought this sports car on June 29, 1953"