“Probably the best-looking sports car in the vintage tradition”, said by J.R. Buckley the Invicta S-Type Low-Chassis lives on as one of the most sought-after classic cars and a fan favourite 90 years later – even though only 75 automobiles were built at the time. Why such manageable amounts?
The Invicta’s story is nothing if not fascinating. It offers two main reasons for the compact model count. One may have been the rumour of its “tricky handling” after Sammy Davis’ accident at the Easter Monday meeting at Brooklands 1931. The other – more probable – reason being the timing of its production right after Black Thursday and in a phase of economic distress, not only in Britain but in the whole of Europe. Paired with the fact that the great Invicta could not really compete in a market of mass-produced automobiles and that WWII soon called for a change in focus on the part of its makers, the Invicta S offers only a short history, albeit an exciting one.
To celebrate the ongoing admiration for the Invicta S, the icon’s history and legacy have now been turned into a beautiful book for which all the best materials have been collated.
264 pages, large format, full colour: this love letter to the Invicta S was written by Mike Riedner and tells its entire story. Starting with Noel Macklin’s great vision for a one-of-a-kind automotive powerhouse that is said to have been inspired by something Philip Lyle’s young wife Eileen had mentioned over dinner at the time, the book takes its readers on the journey of the Invicta S, bringing to life its most iconic race and rally victories and spectacular milestones.
From Donald Healey’s magical Monte Carlo Rally triumph in 1931 to Violette Cordery’s around the world journey that won her the Dewar trophy, it features many anecdotes and memories of the Invicta’s biggest moments. Of course, the journey also touches on the trials and tribulations which, in the end, cut short the lifespan of this quintessentially British pre-war beauty first presented to the enthusiastic public and excited press in October 1930 at the London Motor Show. Furthermore, the book features an interview with the long-time president of the Invicta Club, Bob Wood and a foreword by Miranda Kelly, Macklin’s granddaughter who – despite never getting to meet Noel – paints a great picture of an even greater man.
Of course, the reader will also find profiles on every S-type ever made, complete with photographs of the models and some fascinating historic shots that turn this book into a true historical document.
The green hardcover edition comes with a sleek, green linen slipcase and truly is a must-have for any serious pre-war car enthusiast. The edition is strictly limited to 500 with some of the lower numbers echoing the model numbers of the Invicta S-Type. Of course, many of these are already in the hands of the respective owners. But interested Invicta fans still have the chance to order a numbered edition now while stock lasts. A great opportunity, not only for those who have the vehicle to go along with it. Or as a last Christmas present!
You can order your limited copy at their website >click here<
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A real treasure for Invicta fans
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