1917 Metz Model 25

1917 Metz Model 25 Touring The Metz Company was a pioneer brass era automobile maker established by Charles Herman Metz in Waltham, Massachusetts, from ca.1908 to 1922. C. H. Metz began in business in 1886 making bicycle parts, and in 1893 formed the Waltham Manufacturing Company with Herbert L. Thompson, Elmer G. Howe and Frank L. Howe. Later the firm developed designs for motorized vehicles. Although Metz was not the first to offer a kit car, (Dyke and Sears predated Metz with do-it-your-self high-wheelers), Metz did offer the first known kit automobile on the installment plan, known as the Metz Plan. The buyer would buy 14 groups or packages of parts for $27.00 which would be put together with the plans and tools supplied, or a factory-assembled automobile could be bought for $600.00. This plan was in effect until 1911 when it became impractical to compete with a dealer-supplied model T Ford. By 1922, the company was in dire financial condition and was taken over by the Waltham National Bank. They reorganized the company and renamed it the Motor Manufacturers Incorporated of Waltham. This successor company produced an Automobile called the Waltham Six, which sold for $2,450.00 and was produced in 1922 only. This last desperate attempt to save the Metz Co. failed. Charles Metz filed for bankruptcy in August 1922. A museum quality restoration for this beautiful and rare example now bedazzling our halls here at Classic Auto Mall. Rare by the numbers, as only about 4,300 examples were built of the Model 25, and that accounts for all body styles. Exterior Automobiling was in its growth spurt in the 19-teens with over 485,000 of the worlds 606,000 cars having been produced in the good old US of A. With its simply designed tub this 4-door convertible touring sedan is straight, and the paint is maroon on the body which presents nicely. Curvaceous fenders attached to long running boards adorn each side of this tub and are sprayed in black. These running boards have highly lacquered wood inlays for the steps which highlight the black steel perfectly. The long hood in its cowling style is fronted by a maroon radiator surround, Metz badging, and brass radiator cap. 2 simple large brass trimmed can headlights flank the grille, and float above the front fenders. Black canvas makes up the foldable roof over the passengers and shows without any flaws. In the back attached to the body tub is a single spare tire and a small round taillight decorates the drivers rear fender. 30 glossy wood spoke wheels adorn the 4 corners and are shod in 30x3.5 blackwall rubber. Interior Also beautifully restored with black smooth vinyl in very good condition covering the door panels with beautiful oak top sills. A wonderful glossy oak fronted dash curves up to the front windshield and in front of the driver is a utilitarian speedometer/odometer and ammeter all in perfect condition sitting behind a walnut wood steering wheel. Heavily tufted black tuck and roll vinyl covers the wrap around bench seats both front and rear with the rear of the front seat tub being finished in body matching maroon. Weathered oak planks cover the floor upfront, and the same is seen in the rear, albeit with less wear. This interior is definitely all buttoned up, well done, and in very nicely presenting condition. Drivetrain This is where things get interesting, featuring a 188.7ci L-head 4 cylinder. This aqua painted mill is fed by a 1bbl carburetor, and a direct-drive shaft leads rearward. New ideas were in vogue during the early days of motoring and Metz was far ahead of its time. In place of a traditional transmission, or even a planetary style transmission we see a simple steel disc. A drive wheel, actuated by the shift lever above is designed to move inward and outward on the steel disc thus increasing rotational speeds sent to the 4.00 geared rear axle via the single drive chain. A precursor to the CVT transmissions of today if you will. Absolutely one of the nicest drivetrain restorations Ive seen come through the doors here at Classic Auto Mall. With supple hoses and wires this engine is in near Concours condition. Undercarriage A straight total rust-free environment under here with jet black metal with a light coating of dust and patina from age. This car was a pre 4-wheel braked car, only sporting mechanical rear drum brakes. All leaf spring suspension, and all amazingly shiny. Driveability Unfortunately this car does not start. Records of an appraisal in 2019 showed it to be in running condition then, however our consignor conveyed to us an issue with the magneto has crept up and now the engine will not fire. A beautifully restored Concours quality automobile, and a rare bird to boot. One can only surmise the number of examples left, let alone ones in this condition. Some TLC is required but in the end, you will have a Brass Era automobile with a well restored engine and essentially the great great grandpa to modern transmissions of today that will be a standout at any show.