Duesenberg Model J chassis 2603 carries a particularly personal and intriguing early history, closely tied to the life of its original owner, American diplomat Paul T. Mayo.

In May 1936, Mayo ordered the car for his second wife, Katherine, commissioning it as a luxury automobile befitting their social standing. The Duesenberg, by then already recognized as the pinnacle of American automotive engineering, would have represented both prestige and refinement. However, by the time the car was completed just two months later, the couple’s relationship had already begun to deteriorate.

The situation escalated quickly, and in July 1937, the marriage ended in divorce, before the car could truly fulfill its intended role. Despite having ordered it for his wife, Mayo retained ownership of the Duesenberg following the separation.

In 1939, Mayo entered into a third marriage and subsequently decided to part with the car, ending his relatively brief but eventful association with chassis 2603.

Following its early years, the car passed into the hands of other enthusiasts, continuing its life beyond its dramatic beginnings.