French automotive pioneer Adolphe Clément’s automobiles were first imported into the United Kingdom in 1902 by the British Automobile Commercial Syndicate, whose chairman, the Earl of Shrewsbury & Talbot, added part of his own title. Actually a mildly disguised version of the French-market Clément-Bayard, the Clément-Talbot was known for the high quality of its engineering. The firm was later sold in 1919, and eventually found itself in the ownership of the Rootes brothers. They later purchased Clément-Talbot’s parent company Darracq, and kept the Talbot name alone—which continued in the 1930s as one of England’s most prominent manufacturers of sporting automobiles.

Especially well-known during the vintage era were the 12 HP, four-cylinder models, which in fact produced 15.8 RAC horsepower and about 28 brake horsepower at nearly 2,000 rpm—fairly impressive figures for a mid-sized British automobile of its period. Competition versions acquitted themselves quite well at venues such as Brooklands and in European hillclimb events well into the 1920s. Today the survivors are fiercely prized by their owners for their enjoyability in rallies the world over.

The 12 HP model offered here is believed to have been originally delivered in Ireland, Jim Boland’s proud homeland. A 1914 list of automobiles and motorcycles registered with the council in County Louth notes its registration number, “IK 711”, in the ownership of James F Griffin of Skerries, who is likely to have been the original owner. Mr Boland acquired it in 1968, the first year recorded in its accompanying “buff” logbook under his ownership. Only the third veteran car bought by Mr Boland, the Tourer has now remained within his distinguished collection for a remarkable 57 years making it the longest-serving member of his stable.

Appearing to have been restored early in its time in the Boland mews, the 12 HP is finished in an appealing medium green with red chassis frame and leather interior, and exhibits tremendous patina thanks to its many years of enjoyment within the collection. It is complete with its historic registration, as well as what appears to be the original brass radiator shell, embossed with the Clément-Talbot name. It also features CAV brass headlamps, supplied by a matching control box on the bulkhead at the driver’s feet, and a Smith & Son combination odometer/speedometer. Please note, following a period of static display, it is recommended that the car is inspected by a mechanic prior to being driven.

With considerable charm, this car has been a great favourite within the Boland collection, holding pride of place for nearly six decades. It is sure to win as much favour within its next owner’s stable.