LOT 137

1932 Alvis Type TJ 12/50 Tourer Coachwork in the style of Cross & Ellis Chassis no. 9632 Engine no. 10196

Sold for US$16,800 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

Previous Lot

Next Lot

Lot 137

1932 Alvis Type TJ 12/50 Tourer

The Audrain Concours Auction|4 October 2024, 17:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame

1932 Alvis Type TJ 12/50 Tourer
Coachwork in the style of Cross & Ellis
Chassis no. 9632
Engine no. 10196

1,645cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Updraft Carburetor
52bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
Solid Front and Rear Axles, Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*A fetching and sprightly light sports tourer
*Recently serviced by Alvis specialist Red Triangle
*Fastidiously maintained high-quality restoration
*Charming livery and detailing
*Documented restoration and maintenance history
*Used in the 2015 BBC drama series, 'Life in Squares'
*Vintage-era fun for the whole family

THE ALVIS 12/50

Engineer T G John founded the Alvis company in 1919 when he acquired the rights to an automobile engine and with it the brand name of its aluminum pistons: Alvis. Beginning in 1922 and using the 10/30hp model as a starting point, newly appointed Chief Engineer Captain G T Smith-Clarke and Chief Designer W M Dunn created the car that effectively established Alvis's reputation: the immortal 12/50. The latter was powered by a new overhead-valve engine of 1,460cc, (later enlarged 1,598cc, then 1,645cc) and on its competition debut at Brooklands in 1923, secured a legendary victory in the premier 200-Mile event. A model of exceptional importance for Alvis, the 12/50 remained in production until 1932 and today is one of the most highly sought after of Vintage sports cars, with an enthusiastic following worldwide.

THE CAR OFFERED

Registered 'DG 5193,' this positively marvelous 12/50 was originally supplied to Imperial Motor Mart in Cheltenham on 21st September 1932, fitted with a saloon body. It is known to have moved to Castle Hedingham in Essex by 1962. The car re-emerged as a 'barn find' in the early 1990s, fitted with what appeared to be a P-Type Lea Francis body. The Alvis was featured in Michael Worthington-Williams' 'Finds and Discoveries' column in The Automobile magazine in late 1992.

After its rediscovery, a full restoration was undertaken at significant expense, and the opportunity taken to fit the most of attractive of the Vintage-era Alvis open bodies: a narrow TJ tourer, built from new to original Cross and Ellis drawings. Overseen by Vintage Alvis specialist Tony Leech at Caleng Engineering in Rugby, Warwickshire, the full restoration reportedly included rebuilding the chassis, body, engine and gearbox. The interior re-trim was undertaken by Pro Tectus in Yorkshire, and included a new double duck full hood, hood frame, a complete set of side screens, and a full front and rear tonneau. The car is finished a lovely mid-green and trimmed in red Scottish Pibroach leather. It also benefits from a gearbox rebuild undertaken by Hardy Engineering of Leatherhead in 2014. Brimming with period charm, it includes such lovely period details as a single side-mount spare, wicker picnic hamper, 'cyclops' driving lamp, and a delightful Hare radiator mascot.

Initially, 'DG 5193' had seen little use since the 1990s rebuild, but the previous owner made up for lost time, enjoying reliable family motoring with the car since he bought it in 2014. Under current ownership, the Alvis was treated to considerable sorting and service by renowned UK Specialists Red Triangle. Invoices on file from 2022 show work including a propshaft rebuild, steering box service, sump repairs to rectify oil leaks, new exhaust downpipe, brake adjustment, gearbox mountings and more.

It is known to the Alvis 12/50 Register and has attended VSCC meetings in the UK, garnering much deserved attention. It was also used during the filming of the BBC series 'Life in Squares', about the Bloomsbury Group of writers, intellectuals and artists. In current ownership, the car was shown at the 2023 Radnor Hunt Concours d'Elegance, attesting to its marvelous current condition. This 12/50 is a wonderful Vintage family car, with a decent turn of speed, excellent build quality and dependability, exemplifying the model's enviable reputation of being able to cover the miles with ease and in comfort.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium.
For MOTORCAR property the premium is 12% on the first $250,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $250,000.
For MOTORCYCLE property the premium is 15% on the first $100,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $100,000.
For AUTOMOBILIA or non motor vehicle property, the premium is 28% of the first $50,000 of the bid price, plus 27% of the amount of the bid price above $50,000 up to and including $1,000,000, plus 21% of the amount of the bid price above $1,000,000 up to and including $6,000,000, plus 14.5% of the amount of the bid price above $6,000,000.
A 3rd-party bidding platform fee equal to 4% of the Hammer Price shall be payable by buyers whose successful bid is submitted via 3rd-party bidding platforms, including Invaluable; Live Auctioneers; The Saleroom; Lot-tissimo.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Collection Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Payment Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Shipping Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Storage Notices
PAYMENT AND COLLECTION
Refer to GENERAL, BIDDER INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF SALE for full Payment and Collection details.
Paid Automobilia lots are available for collection during and immediately following the auction on October 4 until 8pm.
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 5 and 6.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 4 - during the auction until 8pm, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 5 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 6 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motorcar lots. Cash payments have a limit of $10,000. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 6, 2024
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
Uncollected Automobilia lots will be uplifted and stored at Bonhams Skinner, 274 Cedar Hill St, Marlborough, MA 01752, +1 508 970 3000. Automobilia lots will be available for collection starting Friday, October 11. Collection appointments must be made in advance by calling +1 508 970 3000. Contact the Client Services team at bids.us@ bonhams.com for shipping quotes and inperson collection details.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.