Fletch is deep in the Southern Highlands of NSW at a historic 1827 property where he finds an eclectic car collection owned by Antony Davies, who is well-versed in old and collectable things. Antony is an Antique and Fine Art Valuer with a wealth of experience in Australia and Overseas. So, it shouldn't be a surprise that he has assembled a collection of historic vehicles.
Today Antony has trimmed his collection to the twelve vehicles displayed at his beautiful modern premises that contrasts with the 1827 homestead on the property. It's one of the original properties of the region.
Fletch gets the inside story of several vehicles, including a 1925 Austin 12 Hereford Roadster, a 4-cylinder, 4-speed medium-size family car with dicky seat.
Sunbeams are a favourite for Antony with a 1929 Sunbeam 16.9 HP 6 cylinder, 2 litre, in Wedgewood Blue, a 1926 Sunbeam 4 cylinder. 2.1 litre, and his favourite 1912 Sunbeam 1216 2-seater four-cylinder 3 litre, with a 4-speed gearbox, 2-wheel brakes and wooden spoke wheels. The Sunbeam is still capable of 50-60mph today.
But the collection wouldn't be eclectic if they were all Sunbeams or Austins, so there is a 1913 Republic Truck. Republic was the largest truck manufacturer between 1912 – 1920, and this vehicle is believed to be the oldest example in the world today. With a 2.5-litre engine and 3-speed gearbox, and 4 1/2 tonne capacity. The Republic Truck has one particularly interesting feature, a Boa Constrictor horn, an excellent accessory to any classic vehicle. Another classic is his 1925 Morris Oxford Supersprint Special with full aluminium bodywork; it is one of only ten left in Australia.
The collection wouldn't be complete without a Model T Ford. Antony purchased his 1913 Model T Ford Deluxe when he was 14 tears of age and took seven years to pay it off. Built-in Sydney, the vehicle has had only three owners over 100-year history.
It's a great collection, beautifully presented in an idyllic remote location.
