1925 Jowett Short Two

This 1925 example has a manual gearbox and a two cylinder, horizontally opposed engine rated at 7 RAC Horsepower - equating to 908cc. It was acquired by the vendor’s father in 1976 and has been in the same family since then. 

The exterior is finished in a bright green paint with plenty of brass located around the vehicle. The Jowett benefits from a retractable roof which opens and closes with ease. We are informed that the roof has recently been replaced and is watertight. Internally, the car is finished in a rich black leather with wooden trim placed throughout and looks exquisite. 

The car comes with no history or records, other than the log book, user manual and maintenance guide. 

We have not driven the car, although it did it run at the time of photographing the vehicle so our assessment of the car is based purely from its appearance. What we can tell you, is that the vehicle has been stored in a dry location for many years and has been cared for greatly. 

As to be expected from a vehicle built in the early 1900s, the craftsmanship is excellent. As far as we could tell, the large majority of panels, including the panel gaps and shut lines, are in-line with what one would expect. Granted, this only extends to the bonnet, the door and boot but it’s worth noting as all of the aforementioned open and close as they should do with no cause of concern.

The brightwork that is placed around the vehicle is in good condition and shows little sign of pitting or corrosion. There are a few imperfections to note with the most notable being atop of the headlight cowling. We suspect this is perfectly normal given their position on the Jowett. 

Glass and light lenses around the Jowett appear to be in fine condition with no fading or imperfections that we noticed. 

The paintwork and bodywork generally is in really good condition with few blemishes that we saw. There are of course a few minor blemishes to note but nothing that is out of place or untoward given the age of the vehicle. The paintwork is free from any deep scratches or imperfections that we saw. More importantly, the Jowett showed no signs of any corrosion anywhere, even in areas that are generally susceptible to corroding. 

The vehicle, at some point in time, has benefitted from a new canvas roof, whereas the side screens appear to be older, but remain in decent useable condition. The dickey seat screen has a split in it.

Overall, the exterior is presented really well and is in fine shape, with just the odd imperfection to be aware of. 

The interior of this Jowett is, as one would expect, simplistic and uncomplicated. There are only two dials to note on the dashboard - an ammeter and a speedometer. These both present well, with little signs of patina to note. The wood that covers the dashboard is looking fantastic and appeared to be in its original condition with no imperfections that we could see. 

The leather upholstery that is found throughout is in a remarkable state, and has clearly been renewed at some point. With very few signs of wear or use, it still remains as comfortable and supportive as the day it left the factory. The front and rear bench as well as the door card looks good and one would be hard pushed to tell that the leather and chrome work is from a vehicle that was built in 1926. The boot or rear seating is inline with the rest of the interior and is presented excellently with no marks or rips on the leather. 

From looking over the engine bay, everything appeared to be in good order; there were no signs of any leaks that we could see coming from any of the components. The Jowett started first time and once the choke was disabled, idled well with no unwanted noises coming from the engine bay. 

Over the years, there has been some work completed to ensure the Jowett runs and operates as it should do. We are informed that a new battery has been fitted, and the valve seats, pistons and piston rings have been replaced, although there are no receipts to verify this. 

Underneath, the Jowett appears to be free from any rust, which is a testament as to how well treated this vehicle has been over the years. 

It was acquired by the vendor’s father in 1976 and has been in the vendor’s family since then. Unfortunately, this is all we can tell you about the vehicle as there is very little documentation that includes receipts for work completed in the past, other than the MOT certificates.

You will be hard pushed to find another Jowett Short 2 in a condition such as this one. The condition is impeccable with the odd blemish here and there, which is to be expected. It runs well and although lacking in horsepower by today’s standards, we are told is a real experience to drive. 

Our estimate for this car is £10,000 - £12,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the vendor in Acle, Norfolk. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.