1914 Simplex Model 50

Chassis 1458

• Delivered new to noted motoring enthusiast Frederick T. Frelinghuysen V of New York
• Longtime ownership by AACA President Mahlon Patton, who toured the car extensively for over three decades
• Comprehensive restoration and mechanical rebuilding by David Staadts Simplex Garage
• Awarded AACA Junior, Senior, and Grand National, Hilton Head Best in Class, and The Amelia Best in Class
• Proven touring veteran with thousands of miles completed on Glidden Tours and other premier events

The Simplex 50 HP ranks among the most formidable and desirable American sporting automobiles of the Brass Era. Developed from the pioneering Mercedes-Simplex concept but executed on a distinctly American scale, the 50 HP combined immense displacement, advanced engineering, and prodigious performance in a package that appealed to the most discerning enthusiasts of the day. With its massive T-head four-cylinder engine, dual-chain final drive, and competition-bred chassis layout, the Simplex was not merely transportation but a purpose-built sporting machine. More than a century later, it remains one of the most coveted American automobiles of its era and a fixture in many of the worlds finest collections.

By 1914, the Simplex had evolved into a mature and highly refined design. Its enormous 590 cubic-inch engine delivered effortless torque and remarkable flexibility, while the mid-mounted transaxle and chain-drive rear axle provided a level of performance and handling that few contemporaries could match. Offered primarily as a chassis, the 50 HP attracted clients who sought the finest coachwork available, often commissioning bodies from Americas premier custom builders.

Offered here is chassis 1458, a particularly well-documented and beautifully presented 1914 Simplex 50 HP fitted with elegant coachwork by Holbrook of New York. Ordered new by Frederick T. Frelinghuysen V, grandson of President Chester Arthurs Secretary of State, the car was commissioned by a young enthusiast whose garage already housed an impressive collection of sporting automobiles. To complement the advanced Simplex chassis, Frelinghuysen selected Holbrook, one of Americas most respected coachbuilders, to create a sleek sporting tourer distinguished by its low profile, graceful proportions, and integrated side lamps. The resulting design remains among the most attractive bodies fitted to a Simplex chassis and perfectly captures the sporting character for which the marque was renowned.

The cars ownership history is exceptionally well documented, aided by a comprehensive report prepared by noted researcher Kelly Williams. Following its early years, chassis 1458 reemerged in the early 1950s in the hands of New Jersey collector Al Hood Jr., who completed an early restoration before selling the car to industrialist and future Antique Automobile Club of America President Mahlon Patton. Under Pattons stewardship, the Simplex became one of the most admired and active touring cars in the hobby. Over three decades of ownership, Patton drove the car thousands of miles on Glidden Tours and other events, establishing a reputation for exceptional reliability and performance. By the 1970s, the car was widely regarded as one of the finest and most capable touring Simplexes in existence.

Subsequent ownership by noted Brass Era enthusiast Manny Souza continued the cars active life before its acquisition by the current owner in 2018. Recognizing the significance of the automobile, the car was entrusted to marque authority David Staadt of Simplex Garage for a comprehensive restoration and mechanical rebuilding program. The engine was thoroughly rebuilt around a newly manufactured crankcase, as well as new cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, bearings, and extensive attention to the carburetion, ignition, cooling, clutch, brakes, differential, and chain drive systems. Included in the sale is the original crankcase, stamped D-1-14, as well as a full list of spares. Following successful completion of the 2019 Glidden Tour, a full cosmetic restoration was undertaken. Significantly, disassembly revealed the body had never been removed from the chassis, with chassis number 1458 found stamped in both the hood bracket and frame rail. The original aluminum body structure and wood framing were found to be exceptionally sound and carefully preserved throughout the restoration.

Finished in its familiar dark red livery, the restoration was completed to an outstanding standard. The body was refinished, the interior reupholstered in correct leather, cabinetry restored, and brass components expertly refinished by Brittens Brass Works. Additional work by Antique Carriage of Nappanee, Indiana ensured the cars presentation matched its exceptional mechanical condition. Notably, the Simplex is equipped with desirable 100mm Rudge-Whitworth wire wheels, a costly and attractive period upgrade offered when new.

The quality of the restoration has been recognized through numerous awards, including VMCCA Horseless Carriage National honors, AACA Junior, Senior, and Grand National prizes, Best in Class at the Hilton Head Concours dElegance, and Best in Class at The Amelia. Yet perhaps more important than the trophies is the cars continued usability. As veteran of the 2025 F.A.R.T.s Tour, the previous owner noted the Simplex can easily achieve 65 mph. Chassis 1458 remains exactly what a great Simplex should be: a powerful, reliable, and exhilarating touring automobile capable of covering serious distances with ease.

With its Holbrook coachwork, outstanding provenance, extensive touring history, concours-level restoration, and fresh mechanical preparation by one of the foremost Simplex specialists, chassis 1458 represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the finest Brass Era American sporting automobiles available today. Few cars better embody the power, prestige, and excitement that made the Simplex legend endure for more than a century.

Offers welcome and trades considered.