Display Merlin and took kit up for auction

[JohnB]

I saw this on a collector car website....

Externally restored but incomplete internals.

https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/gc19 ... kit/763817

At the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale there was a vender selling similar display pieces of Marlins and Allisons.

I would imagine this will end up in someone's garage or car collectio.

[exhaustgases]

The main problem with a display, what is the real condition? Does it even have all the internal parts? Very hard to tell, unless it is advertised as complete, and in what ever condition. The main problem I see with any thing like this is the value someday could be not what we all think. Only certain generations are or where into certain machines, the younger generations are not so, and that will drive what ever value something may have now down to scrap value in the not too far future. Pretty sad.

[airnutz]

The main problem with a display, what is the real condition? Does it even have all the internal parts? Very hard to tell, unless it is advertised as complete, and in what ever condition. The main problem I see with any thing like this is the value someday could be not what we all think. Only certain generations are or where into certain machines, the younger generations are not so, and that will drive what ever value something may have now down to scrap value in the not too far future. Pretty sad.

It is stated, the only internals present are those necessary in order to attach another part for external appearance. Really cool collection of aviation and auto stuff.

EDIT
Forgot to mention, this cosmetic restored display engine was purchased from Vintage V-12's. I doubt if Mr. Nixon would let loose of top shelf parts that could otherwise go into a flying moneymaker.

[lmritger]

Something like this would be absolutely phenomenal for our living history group, but none of us have that kind of scratch. :-/ As so often happens, those who can least afford it are the ones who could get the most use out of it.

Frankly, I'd be happy just to find a used jug and piston from an R-2800 for cheap, let alone a freakin' Merlin. But I have to admit, it's a damned impressive display!

Lynn

[K5DH]

We have an impressive engine display VFM with opposed and radial piston engines from a 65 HP Continental up to a monster R-4360 (from a B-36!) and jet engines from a DH Goblin up to a P&W F100 (from an F-16!), but we have no V-types at all. Something like this would be perfect for our display. But like everyone else, we have no money for such things.

[JohnB]

If a museum wants a similar item, why not contact an engine shop and ask if they have any unserviceable parts they would donate or sell at a discount?
The museum could put in the"sweat equity" to assemble it and make it look nice and the shop would get a tax deduction.

Can't hurt to ask...the worse they can do is say no.

[exhaustgases]

Did it sell? and for how much? If its not complete and made from junk parts its of very low value.

[JohnB]

Did it sell? and for how much? If its not complete and made from junk parts its of very low value.

It's not scheduled to sell until the May 5 auction.

Low value to you, and as an aviation part, it isn't much use.
But here it's being offered by a high-end auction house to guys in the collector car community who are looking for a neat display piece.

Rather like the parts of junked airliners that are polished and sold for high prices. There isn't a market for early 747, 727 or 737 parts...hence low value, but they are apparently worth a lot of money on the decor market.

[Richard W.]

I read in one of the "At War" series about the Lancaster that ground crews in England used to fight over possession of the fine tool sets that Packard shipped with every Merlin engine they made. I presume that other manufacturers provided tool sets, too?

That case isn't exactly what I expected. Does anyone know if it's a correct, period set of tools, or is it window dressing like that poem?

[bdk]

https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/gc19/the-guyton-collection/lots/n1090-rolls-royce-v-12-merlin-display-engine-and-service-tool-kit/763817

Rolls-Royce V-12 Merlin Display Engine and Service Tool Kit
Sold For $57,000
Inclusive of applicable buyer's fee.
RM | Sotheby's - THE GUYTON COLLECTION 4 - 5 MAY 2019