The David Plant Collection, 1937 Sunbeam 600cc Model 9A

An older restoration, this Sunbeam model 9A was last taxed for the road until May 1993 and is now offered either as an appealing 'oily rag' example for sympathetic use, or as a candidate for recommissioning or further restoration, according to the purchaser's preference.

The motorcycle is accompanied by a substantial history file, including a typed letter detailing its provenance. According to this document, the Sunbeam was originally owned by a Mr Hargreaves, a toolmaker at Sunbeam at the time of the Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) takeover in 1937. The letter states that only six Series II 600 machines were laid down, but that with the introduction of the later 'High Cam' model, Mr Hargreaves was permitted to complete one of these machines, together with a spare engine.

The machine is said to have been used by Hargreaves before being sold to Mr Ronald Valentine of the Astor Garage Tool Company, from whom the vendor subsequently acquired it as part of a group purchase. The author further notes that efforts were made to trace the original registration documents - by contacting neighbours of Mr Hargreaves and also AMC - but no additional records were located. The letter concludes with the statement that the author was unaware of any other surviving Series II 600 machines.

Additional documentation on file includes a Vintage Motorcycle Club dating certificate; a Certificate of Permanent Export dated 2004 (recording ownership in the name of Andrew Miller of Edinburgh); a Bonhams purchase invoice from April 2004 (Lot 281); a photocopied old-style V5 registration document; and a copy of the relevant Bonhams auction catalogue.

It should be noted that a typographical error appears in the Bonhams catalogue and associated paperwork, including the HPI report, where the frame number is recorded as '661118'; however, the correct frame number is understood to be '651.118'. The HPI report also states the engine number is 28/108/13310. However, the latter 5 digits is not stamped on the engine. The engine turns over.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
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