Father and son, Claude and William Pettit were successful Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth dealers for 58 years in Louisa, Virginia. Moreover, they amassed a collection of predominantly high-quality American classics, including their original preserved Duesenbergs, the famed Bauer SJ and dual cowl “Blue J.” As an example of one of the most bold and exciting designs of the Classic Era, this Packard Darrin Convertible Victoria was unquestionably one of William Pettit’s favorites. According to notes on file from Darrin specialist Don Figone, it was owned early on by Packard preferred client Sally Eddy, daughter of Pittsburgh industrialist Archibald McCrea. Mr. McCrea was well known in the area, securing and restoring Carter’s Grove, an historic 750-acre property on the James River. The Packard is believed to have spent its early decades at Carter’s Grove and, following interim ownership, was acquired in 1972 by the Pettit family, who later had it restored and showed it extensively, earning numerous concours awards.

The consignor acquired the prized Darrin from Mr. Pettit’s estate in 2012, and soon retained Bob Lorkowski and his team at L’Cars in Cameron, Wisconsin to perform a subsequent show-level restoration on the car in its original color of Laguna Maroon Iridescent. The interior was expertly trimmed in beautiful muted beige leather and the mechanicals were substantially addressed as well. The results of the effort are simply stunning. This truly outstanding Packard is poised to lead its next automotive gathering with the inimitable style of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled as VA20265P.