The Duesenberg Crown: A 1935 SJ Speedster by Gurney Nutting Wins Big at the Peninsula Classics

In a world where the word “iconic” gets tossed around as often as a cheap keychain at a car show, let’s make one thing abundantly clear: the 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Speedster by Gurney Nutting isn’t just iconic—it’s stupendously legendary. Freshly crowned with the prestigious Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award, this one-of-a-kind beauty has left a trail of open jaws, giddy gasps, and probably a few teary-eyed car fanatics in its wake. This isn’t just an award-winning automobile; it’s a meticulously restored, chrome-adorned time capsule with a royal history, impeccable lineage, and enough horsepower to make any car lover weak in the knees.

The Ultimate Automotive Oscar: What is the Peninsula Best of the Best Award?

If cars had an Oscars night, the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award would be the coveted Best Picture statue. Launched in 2015, this ultra-exclusive competition brings together a collection of hand-picked cars that have won major concours events throughout the year. To make it onto the shortlist means you’re already in the automotive stratosphere, and to win? Well, that’s Mount Everest territory.

The winner, the 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Speedster, has taken the gold, cementing its place as not just a car, but a work of art on wheels. But it’s not just the engineering or even its illustrious past that made this Duesenberg a winner. It’s a combination of history, craftsmanship, and let’s face it, just the right amount of glamour.

Meet the Star of the Show: The 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Speedster by Gurney Nutting

This isn’t just any Duesenberg. No, this one has royal blood. Originally commissioned by Maharajah Holkar of Indore, the car came with custom touches that scream royalty—like chrome flagsticks and front fender lights indicating whether the Maharajah or Maharanee was in the driver’s seat. How’s that for royal perks?

But things didn’t exactly go as planned for this regal ride. World War II and concerns about Japan invading India had this stunner shipped off to California before finally making its way back to India. Eventually, in the 1950s, the Duesenberg found its way back to the U.S., where it’s lived happily ever after in the Lyon Estate Car Collection.

And let’s not forget its stunning exterior and top-tier craftsmanship by Gurney Nutting, the legendary coachbuilder who catered to royalty (including Edward, Prince of Wales). This car isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making a statement. With a supercharged engine—one of only 38 Duesenbergs ever made with this feature—it’s as powerful as it is breathtaking. Add in full-height glass facades, a sleek design, and a history that involves both royals and high society, and you’ve got a car that’s practically dripping in mystique.

It’s Not Just About Looks—It’s About Who’s Watching

Winning the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award is no small feat, and the judges certainly weren’t amateurs. A roster of 25 judges included Chris Bangle (BMW design legend), Nick Mason (yes, the Pink Floyd drummer who also has an enviable car collection), and fashion icon Ralph Lauren. These aren’t just people who like nice cars—they are the cream of the crop, the true tastemakers in automotive design, history, and restoration.

And yet, even among this group of elite car enthusiasts, the Duesenberg SJ Speedster stood out. Competing against other heavyweights like the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Spezial Roadster and the 1953 Ferrari 250 MM Berlinetta by Pininfarina, this was a win not just for the car, but for the legacy of Major General William Lyon, the man behind its last restoration. Lyon, who combined his passions for aviation and cars, would’ve been proud to see his prized jewel take top honors.

The Aspirational Luxury of Owning a Piece of History

Sure, most of us will never own a car like the Duesenberg SJ Speedster. But what makes these cars so captivating, besides their beauty and rarity, is that they’re like rolling pieces of history. They remind us of a time when cars weren’t just functional—they were extravagant, hand-crafted expressions of art and power, built for royalty and millionaires. Today’s supercars might have more tech, but they’ll never have the same mystique as these classics. They’re more than just automobiles; they’re time machines, each carrying stories of the past, of opulence, of engineering genius.

The Grand Finale at the Peninsula London

Of course, what’s a best-of-the-best win without a proper celebration? The Peninsula London played host to the grand event, and if you’re in the city, you might even catch a glimpse of this rare beauty on display in the hotel lobby. For the true aficionados (or those with an appetite for exclusivity), there’s even an automotive-themed afternoon tea—because what’s more luxurious than sipping tea surrounded by multimillion-dollar cars?

A Glimpse Into the Future of Classics

With its victory, the 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Speedster not only secures its place in history but also serves as a reminder of the power of design, innovation, and legacy. As we speed toward an era dominated by electric vehicles and autonomous driving, it’s worth pausing to admire the artistry of classic engineering. The Duesenberg SJ Speedster isn’t just a car—it’s a symbol of a bygone era when automobiles were the ultimate status symbols, and when design and power reigned supreme.

And if the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award has shown us anything, it’s that in the world of cars, some things really do get better with age.