Lot Ended
Description
Part of a considerable private collection; deceased estate; unusual
Velvet Green body; full factory records included
Produced between 1965 and 1980, the Bentley T1 was the marque’s final
traditional saloon before the move to modernised designs. Replacing the
S-series, it featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine, updated suspension, and refined
interior comforts, retaining Bentley’s hallmark craftsmanship and smooth ride.
The T1 remains a notable example of late-20th-century British luxury
motoring.
Delivered new to Jack Barclay Ltd. of
London in 1968, this smart T1 is finished in its original and rare Velvet Green
over black hide. It has formed part of a private collection of Bentleys, Aston
Martins, and Jaguars, also offered in this auction as part of a deceased
estate.
As with other cars from the collection,
it has seen little use in recent years and last passed an MOT in 2018 with no
advisories, providing some reassurance to the next owner. The car has been
running and driving on site for photographs and videos, with nothing of note
reported.
Having seemingly been stored indoors,
the car presents in fairly good order. The Velvet Green paint presents in fair
condition with minimal signs of wear and no major scratches or dents. A
documented full body respray and polish (and some panel replacement) by
Iver Bodywork—undated—may account for this. However, the car appears that it
would benefit from a further deep polish as the paintwork has gone rather
flat in places, but this doesn't detract from the car as a whole. The chromework
though, while retaining its shine, has experienced minor corrosion to the front
grille and rear bumper; both appear undamaged and should be able to be
refinished if desired.
The same invoice notes
that all wooden veneered interior panels were removed and sent for refurbishment
at the same time. The leather interior appears in good condition, with no rips
or tears, reflecting the quality expected from Bentley. We know that it spent
some time in Ireland and regained its UK reg in c.2015, so we assume this is
when this recommissioning took place.
Also
included is the car’s full factory build, construction and testing records,
confirming it remains in its original specification, and a ‘Warranty
Acknowledgement’ from the well-known H.R. Owen.
The odometer currently reads 3,239 miles, with the last recorded MOT
showing 29,371 miles in 2018. As always, bidders must satisfy themselves as to
the vehicle’s true mileage.
In summary, this T1
represents an exceptionally well-preserved example of Bentley’s last traditional
saloon, finished in a rare and sought-after colour. From a private collection,
it can be enjoyed as it stands or, with minimal work, taken to the next
level.
Contact - jack.kenneally-perrin@brightwells.com