The 1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster owned by Hollywood icon Clark Gable captured Best of Show at the 75th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Only two examples of this model exist, making the win a historic moment for one of America's rarest prewar automobiles.
The Duesenberg bested over 200 competitors, including a 1938 Delahaye and two Ferrari 375s. The SSJ represents the pinnacle of American automotive engineering from the Depression era, powered by a supercharged straight-eight engine producing 320 horsepower. At the time, this made the Duesenberg one of the fastest production cars in the world, capable of exceeding 140 mph.
Gable's ownership adds significant provenance. The actor, star of "Gone with the Wind," represented Hollywood's golden age when celebrity ownership elevated a car's cultural cachet. The connection between Tinseltown and exotic automobiles dates back decades, and this Duesenberg exemplifies that intersection.
Pebble Beach judges focus on originality, condition, and historical importance. The SSJ's dual-carburetor setup and hand-stitched interior showcase pre-war craftsmanship rarely seen today. Competition at this level demands flawless restoration and documentation. The victory over Ferrari 375s, which dominated 1950s racing, underscores how judges value prewar American engineering and rarity.
The Duesenberg SSJ remains one of automotive history's holy grails. Production numbers stayed deliberately low, with the company targeting ultra-wealthy buyers who valued exclusivity over volume. Today, surviving examples command multimillion-dollar valuations at auction. The Pebble Beach award validates the car's status within collector circles and reinforces why these machines transcend mere transportation to