Simplex Crane Model 5

The immensely wealthy Rockefeller family owns two examples of this type of Simplex Crane Model 5, with an 8.8 liter six cylinder engine and an output of 110 hp.

In its day this Crane-Simplex ranked among the best cars built in America. After successfully completing his academic studies, the American Henry M. Crane founded the Crane and Whitman Company in 1906. In 1912 the first production model was ready, but actual "production" was limited to only 30 examples over the following three years. His cars did not go unnoticed, however, because the company, including Crane himself, was taken over by the Simplex Automobile Company from nearby New Brunswick. The 'Model 5' was soon introduced, fitted with an elegant six cylinder engine of just over 8.8 liters, developed by Crane. Prestigious coachbuilders were found to provide this fine piece of engineering with suitably styled coachwork. The example shown here carries a body by Brewster, one of the better American builders, who in later years would also supply many Rolls-Royces with beautiful yet understated bodies. Unfortunately, Simplex went bankrupt in the early 1920s. In June 2013 this car was used by the royal couple during their introductory visit to The Hague.