1937 Horch 853 Series 1 Sport Cabriolet

• A stunning example of the first series, which is considered the most attractive and sought-after model thanks to its many high-quality details
• A complete and faithful restoration was carried out in the mid-1990s, demonstrating the highest standards of craftsmanship
• Only four owners in Germany and Denmark since completion
• Preserved in mint condition to this day and always well maintained; superb handling and excellent engine performance
• Attractive two-tone colour scheme in black and silver-grey metallic with a leather interior and black soft top
• The 853 is one of the most exclusive German automobiles of its era

Eberhard Thiesen has a long-standing and deep connection with Horch 853 models: while searching for classic cars in the former Soviet Union between 1985 and 1995, he discovered a total of 15 Horch 853s and brought them back to Germany. This led him to set up a specialised workshop for these cars in order to have a number of 853s restored. Over the years, he has acquired extensive expertise and experience with the 853 model.

This 1937 Horch 853 was also discovered by Eberhard Thiesen in Russia in the early 1990s, in a condition that, whilst bearing the marks of a poor economy, was largely complete, and was subsequently imported to Germany. Under his supervision, the car was completely restored and rebuilt true to the original details over a period of four years in his own workshop and with the assistance of other specialist manufacturers. In the process, all components and every part were either overhauled or replaced.

The body was fitted with a new wooden frame as a structural element, and the panels were carefully repaired. This work was carried out by Malmquist in Sweden. As a result, this particular car is distinguished, both then and now, by the excellent fit of the bodywork and chrome trim. Moreover, the engine was overhauled and repaired by Gebrüder Heise Motoreninstandsetzung in Northern Germany. The car was given an extremely attractive and period-appropriate two-tone paint finish in black and silver-grey metallic, with a black leather interior and a black soft top.

Following its restoration, the 853 Sport Cabriolet was sold to one of Germany’s most renowned collectors. Many years later, the Horch passed to another collector in Northern Europe. In early 2016, Eberhard Thiesen repurchased the excellently preserved car and sold it to a collector in Northern Germany. In 2019, the Horch – again via Eberhard Thiesen – came into the hands of its current owner in southern Germany, who added it to his collection of various Mercedes supercharged models.

Compared to the two subsequent 853 versions, this first-series example features several very attractive details: the noticeably longer bonnet with a more elegant side-line; the low, fold-out windscreen assembly; the lower roofline (on the 853 A, the soft top resembles a balloon); the beautiful gold-coloured instruments instead of black fittings, as well as the brass-chrome trim, which from mid-1937 onwards was made entirely of aluminium.

The immaculate bodywork, the excellent interior and flawless mechanics speak for themselves and are likely to be unique. Moreover, the car impresses with outstanding handling and a superb engine performance. The extremely well preserved leather upholstery and polished fine woods, as well as the many fine details both inside and outside, are a real feast for the eyes. Here is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire an outstanding Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet in virtually mint collector’s condition.