In 1902, the British Automobile Commercial Syndicate was established under the leadership of the Earl of Shrewsbury and Talbot to bring to the isles such vehicles as the French-built Clément-Bayard. The latter soon became known in England as the Clément-Talbot, and within two years of its introduction to the country was well-regarded for its excellent engineering. This was especially true of the mid-range 12/15 HP model, originally introduced as the 4V in 1904 and continuing with revisions into 1905 as the 4VB. It offered such advanced features as mechanical inlet valves, magneto ignition, a mechanically driven water pump, and a live rear axle.

According to the late Jim Boland, his Clément-Talbot was originally delivered to the Alfred E Coleman family of Carlow, Ireland. Well-known Talbot enthusiasts, with whom the car is first known to have been registered in 1906, they retained ownership until Mr Boland acquired the car in 1976. He noted that it had been partially dismantled by the Colemans in 1910 and remained disassembled until his purchase, although the steering box/pedal assembly remained attached to the chassis and the gearbox, both axles, steering gear, brakes, driveshaft, front wings, bonnet, and other components were still present. When discovered, the car was missing both body and radiator. They were replaced during restoration, with the body that was used reportedly dating from 1907 and acquired in the UK. A missing engine cylinder was properly recast by Frank Smith of Alderley Edge; further the motor was equipped with an SU carburettor and Bosch magneto for more reliable operation.

While owned by Mr Boland, the car was quite extensively examined by the Veteran Car Club and its Dating Committee in an attempt to date it properly. The investigation, which recognised the car as chassis number 50, indicated that it was fitted with the longer chassis frame available in both 1904 and 1905 but more common to a 1905 model, with the 1905 design at the rear of the frame. The report continued that the car is equipped with a 4VB-specification engine with a larger 85-millimetre cylinder bore, albeit mated to an earlier-type differential—a specification that seems to indicate it is a 1905 model, albeit perhaps built in a transitional period at the works when some 4V components were still being utilised. The car was finally dated a 1905, and prospective bidders are advised to examine the paperwork relating to the dating process within the file and satisfy themselves to this car’s identity. Furthermore, following a period of static display, bidders are also encouraged to have the car inspected by a mechanic prior to it being driven.

Driven by Mr Boland with pleasure at numerous events and rallies since restoration, including on the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, this car has been one of the crown jewels of his well-chosen collection. It is an Irish machine since at least 1906, with only two owners in that time period, and a vehicle he enjoyed with considerable pride.