1924 Studebaker Big-Six Sedan

Chassis No. 2031367
Engine No. EK32770

With roots extending back to the manufacture of horse-drawn wagons, Studebaker entered the automobile business in 1902 and steadily expanded its reputation as a builder of substantial, well-engineered automobiles. By the early 1920s, the South Bend manufacturer had consolidated its passenger-car range around six-cylinder power, with the Big-Six occupying the upper reaches of its lineup. Introduced for 1922, the Series EK was powered by a 354-cu-in L-head six-cylinder and continued with strong production figures during its three-year run through 1924.

Studebaker continually refined the Big-Six during this period, and the 1923 model brought significant visual and equipment updates. Among them were nickel-plated radiator shells, automatic windshield wipers, stoplights, nickel-plated bumpers, a Motometer, and disc wheels. The 1924 Big-Six carried these developments forward, while the Sedan offered an especially comprehensive specification. Equipment included auxiliary disc wheels with tires and covers, a trunk, windshield cleaner, glare-proof visor, multiple interior and exterior lamps, a heater, aluminum kick plates, and double-weave mohair upholstery.

William Harrah was clearly drawn to the appeal of the Series 24 Big-Six, and this example is understood to have joined his world-famous automobile collection by the early 1960s. Like many of the stellar automobiles on display in Reno, Nevada, this Studebaker reportedly received a full ''Gold Star'' restoration, which was the highest ''no expense spared'' level offered by Harrah's in-house team of over 100 full-time staff. Unusually for a Gold Star car, the interior upholstery appears to have been preserved during the work rather than replaced-a telling sign of the forward-thinking nature of their restorations.

In Reno for more than 60 years-with Harrah's and, from 1989, with the National Automobile Museum-until the summer of 2026, the Studebaker remains equipped with desirable period equipment, proudly boasting its large side-mounted disc wheels and rear-mounted leatherette-covered trunk. Inside, the dashboard is fitted with a prominent 8-Day Waltham clock, Van Sicklen speedometer with trip meter, and additional accessory gauges along with a Perfection Heater. Such appointments reflected the Big-Six's position as a large, thoroughly equipped automobile. With its Harrah's provenance and recommissioning, this Studebaker offers the road-going capability and comfort expected of Studebaker's top-of-the-line model for 1924.