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LOT 779

1947 Douglas 348cc T35 De Luxe Registration no. EAV 615 Frame no. 1753 Engine no. 1815

Sold for £4,715 inc. premium
Lot 779

1947 Douglas 348cc T35 De Luxe
Registration no. EAV 615 Frame no. 1753 Engine no. 1815

1947 Douglas 348cc T35 De Luxe
Registration no. EAV 615
Frame no. 1753
Engine no. 1815

The Bristol-based Douglas Foundry took up motorcycle production in 1907 with a machine powered by a horizontally-opposed, twin-cylinder engine, and the company would keep faith with this layout until it ceased motorcycle production in 1957. Fore-and-aft installation made for a slim machine with a low centre of gravity, and the design's virtues were soon demonstrated in competition, 2¾hp Douglas machines taking 1st, 2nd and 4th places in the 1912 Junior TT in the Isle of Man.

Douglas commenced post-war production in 1947 with, naturally enough, a flat twin, though unlike the vast majority of previous models the T35 mounted its engine across the frame. The former was of unit construction, while the latter displayed even greater innovation with its swinging arm rear suspension controlled by torsion bars, and leading-link Radiadraulic front fork. Its advanced running gear endowed the Douglas with excellent handling and steering characteristics, while the willing engine, although not as quick as some 350s, could propel the 'Duggie' at up to 70mph and return 60-plus miles per gallon. The T35 was produced for little more than one season before being superseded by the updated MkIII.

First registered in Scotland ('AV' is an Aberdeenshire mark), this T35 was purchased by the vendor at Bonhams' Stafford auction in April 2007 (Lot 445). The machine was restored in 2010: the gearbox being rebuilt; the magneto overhauled; the clutch relined; the wheels rebuilt with new chromed rims and stainless spokes; the seat re-covered; and a new prop stand, crash bars, luggage rack, exhaust pipe and 'waffle box' silencer fitted. Last run earlier this year and described by the private vendor as in generally excellent condition, with good engine, the machine is offered with an old-style logbook; instruction manual; parts catalogue; sundry restoration invoices; assorted MoTs and tax discs; and a V5C document, the latter incorrectly recording the frame number.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

This lot is now offered 'Without Reserve' The frame number is T35 1753. The engine number is T35/S/1815. It appears the engine number has been restamped.

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