1924 Morris Oxford Bullnose Two Seat Tourer with Dickey

William Morris Motors Ltd was created in 1912 and in 1913 produced the first Morris Oxford motor car. The firm became Morris Motors in 1919 and their charming Bullnose Oxfords and Cowleys were produced until 1927. There were various body styles and even some Commercials, all known for their reliability and the distinctive Bullnose radiator. Engines, like many parts, were acquired from outside sources. Those from White and Poppe were replaced in the early twenties by units from Hotchkiss and this firm was soon acquired by Morris to increase production.  The Oxford received the larger 1800cc 13.9hp unit with a three speed manual gearbox. Being essentially a French firm making machine gun parts in the Great War, Hotchkiss steadfastly produced their engines with metric threads. Morris got around this by putting Whitworth heads on the French nuts and bolts. During the early Hotchkiss production period the Oxford and Cowley were similar in terms of chassis, but the Oxford was said to be better in terms of equipment and refinement. Interestingly, certain items like crown wheel and pinions and door hinges were acquired from the United States. By the end of production there were differences in size and specification between Oxford and Cowley.

This lovely and largely original Bullnose Oxford belonged to the late step father of the current custodian for many years. Unfortunately, very little remains of the history of the motor car, but we do know that it has been much cherished and is in exceptionally original condition.

The original body is sound and solid, but those who seek perfection may wish to improve the paintwork. The lovely upholstery is the original leather, which should respond to a good clean and an application of hide food. The hood and side screens are in good order, the instrumentation present and working. We understand that prior to being laid-up, the Oxford had a good turn of speed and out-performed many cars of its class.  We do know that the Morris was in running order in 2019, when it successfully participated in the Bullnose Rally in Axbridge, but we presume that it will now require a recommissioning service before returning to the road. For lovers of originality then, it will be a good, fairly simple autumnal project for its new owner.

The file contains the V5C registration certificate and information on the Axbridge rally mentioned above.

Auction Date: 8 September 2022