The Andrew Tillman Collection, 1937 Vincent-HRD 498cc Comet Series A

• Rare Series A
• Restored by the previous owner
• Matching numbers machine
• Single family ownership 1958 to 2016

In 1927, HRD was placed in voluntary liquidation by its founder, Howard Davies. It was acquired by young engineer Philip Vincent, with financial backing from his father. Unimpressed by the standard of 'bought-in' engines, Vincent and fellow engineer Phil Irving designed their own engine for 1934, incorporating their high-camshaft layout, which was billed in the company's advertising as 'Semi-OHC'. Initial models with this engine were the 500 Meteor sports model and the more highly tuned Comet, later variations being the Comet Special and the TT model. The Rapide twin was to follow in 1936, but production lasted only until war broke out in 1939.

The vendor purchased CRO 513 at Bonhams' Beaulieu sale in 2016 (lot 315). At that point, the machine had been in single family ownership from 1958. Kept in boxes for many years, it was finally given a thirty-year restoration by the last owner, being completed in the 1990s following a 'nut-and bolt' restoration, only leaving the family on the death of the last custodian. Since acquisition by the present owner, CRO has not been used on the road, but has been well-maintained in dry storage, with annual oil changes and greasing where necessary. A few minor mechanical issues were rectified, and the petrol tank was repainted and lined maroon in 2017, to correct the previous shade of red. Last running in June 2025, the machine should only require light recommissioning and basic safety checks prior to use with a new owner.

The comprehensive history file includes assorted invoices and correspondence, together with photocopies of the Engine Specification Sheet and Works Order Form, which detail that this Comet was originally equipped with Burman gearbox number XBAPH 42940, Amal carburettor, BTH magneto, Miller lighting set, TT bars, 120mph Speedometer, pillion seat and footrests, TT footrests, and Dunlop saddle. It still has the original engine, upper frame, rear frame, gearbox, and oil pump, number BD123. The Works Order Form also reveals that this machine was tested by the Works development rider and renowned racer, George Brown. Other documentation accompanying CRO 513 includes a current V5C, a continuation RF60 log book, a 1994 VOC Certificate of Authenticity, an instruction book covering 1935 and Series "A" models including the "Rapide" Series "A", a rare blueprint and copy mechanical component drawings, old road tax discs and MoTs, the 2016 Beaulieu sale catalogue, and miscellaneous papers. It is presently declared SORN.
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