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Le Baron, the Classic of the Classics
(Courtesy Library of Congress)
More than a Name
LeBaron, Fleetwood, Fisher, Vanden Plas. Now
badges, these names have gone
the way of the traditions of the great coachbuilders: swallowed by the mass market.
The industry artisans, craftsmen, and designers, courted by factories and desired by
clients, these were the automotive fashion designers, trend setters, and image
makers. A 1929 Lincoln advertisement bragged the car was deserving of the
country's foremost custom coachmakers... LeBaron, Judkins, Dietrich,
Willoughby, Derham, Locke, and Brunn... [who] have given it an exterior
beauty to match its inner worth. The notice perfectly described the way
luxury automobiles were built, purchased, and perceived at the time.
The Lincoln needed no introduction by 1929; neither did the
coachbuilders. Still, the association and distinction was worth
repeating in ad copy. This was the mark of a luxury car.
Sublime workmanship by Willoughby
on a 1937 Lincoln Model K
(Photo by Michael L. Bromley)
The coach-built Lincoln Continental
by Lehmann-Peterson, 1969
(Photo by Michael L. Bromley)
With thanks to owners Bernie Wolfson &
John Nader
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