1931 Model J 2465 Franay Convertible Sedan

Chassis number: 2465
Year: 1931
Modeltype: J
Body:
Franay  Convertible Sedan (current)
Wheelbase: Long

Information

Duesenberg Model J chassis 2465, powered by engine J‑446, is one of the most cosmopolitan and elegant Duesenbergs ever constructed. Combining American engineering with bespoke French coachwork, it enjoyed a fascinating early life that included royal use, appearances at Europe's most prestigious automotive events, and ownership by one of South America's foremost Duesenberg collectors.

The car was fitted with a striking Convertible Sedan body by Franay, the renowned Parisian coachbuilder celebrated for its sophisticated and often avant-garde designs. Upon completion, the Duesenberg debuted at the Paris Concours d'Elegance in June 1931, where it was used by Queen Maria of Yugoslavia, an association that immediately elevated its prestige.

Later the same year, the car was exhibited at the Paris Salon. Photographs from the event show a prominent "Vendue" ("Sold") sign displayed in the window, indicating that the car had already found a buyer. That buyer was Antonio Chopitea of Lima, Peru, a member of one of the most enthusiastic Duesenberg-owning families in the world. Together with his brothers, Chopitea assembled an impressive collection that included several Model Js in a variety of body styles, ranging from sporting Speedsters to formal sedans.

Although purchased by Chopitea, the Duesenberg initially remained in Paris, where it later passed to a local brewer before eventually crossing the Atlantic to the United States. The car was subsequently owned by G. L. William Guilbert of Troy, New York, followed by E. Romerez in New York City.

By 1941, chassis 2465 had entered the ownership of Mr. Warriner of Maryland. During his stewardship, the car underwent one of the most significant changes in its history. The original sweeping Franay fenders were removed and replaced with more modern pontoon-style fenders, reflecting contemporary styling trends of the era. Remarkably, the car retains these later fenders today, making them an established part of its historical identity.

In May 1977, the car was acquired by Charles Goodman, who retained it for nearly two decades. During his ownership, a comprehensive restoration was undertaken and completed in 1996, returning the car to concours condition.

The quality of the restoration was immediately recognized. Following its completion, the Duesenberg achieved several important awards:
- Pre-War Touring Class Award, inaugural Louis Vuitton Classic, Rockefeller Center (1996)
- First in Class, CCCA Annual Experience, Hickory Corners (1997)
- Meadowbrook Memorial Trophy, Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance (1997)

These accomplishments firmly established chassis 2465 as one of the finest restored European-bodied Duesenbergs in existence.
Today, the car resides in the collection of renowned automotive enthusiast and collector James Glickenhaus of New York, where it continues to be recognized as a significant example of transatlantic coachbuilding excellence.

Combining royal associations, French coachbuilding artistry, international ownership, and significant concours achievements, Duesenberg J‑2465 stands among the most interesting and worldly Model Js ever built. Its journey from Paris to Peru and ultimately to the United States reflects the global appeal of the Duesenberg marque and the enduring fascination these extraordinary automobiles continue to inspire.

Provenance

1931 - 1931 Queen Maria of Yugoslavia

1931 - ???? Antonio Chopitea
???? - ???? G. L. William Guilbert
???? - ???? E. Romerez
1941 - ???? Mr. Warriner
???? - ???? W. E. Howell
???? - ???? Mr. Schreiber
???? - ???? Earl Clark
1977 - 1995 Charles Goodman
???? - present  James Glickenhaus

Highlights/prizes

No highlights/prizes available.


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