Highlights
- Originates from the dry Nevada desert, and is thus free of corrosion
- Low production numbers, making it highly sought after by collectors
- Completely unrestored condition with an attractive patina
- Iconic 'Alien Eyes' windows and Art Deco-inspired interior
The Appeal
Introduced in 1947 by the Curtis Wright Trailer Coach Company, the Clipper was an aluminium-bodied trailer with a streamlined, sleek design that was designed by the Airstream's original creator, Wally Byam. When Curtis Wright collapsed in 1949, having been unable to sustain following wartime, a handful of employees and management got together to form the Silver Streak Trailer Company - conjuring up art-deco branding that evoked the modern, luxurious streamliners roaming American railroads.
Silver Streak swiftly snapped up the rights to Byam's Baby in 1949. By most accounts, their iteration of the Clipper was the creme de la creme of the streamlined trailer phenomenon that followed the war. It was stronger and stiffer and tended to use straight-on-to-frame bodywork. All of its internal fittings were assembled and installed after the shell was completed. It was a work of precision and quality.
This 1950 iteration carries the distinctive, larger, 'Alien Eye' windows, and was built at a time when Silver Streak were still working in very small production numbers. Having spent much of its life in Nevada, this fabulous example is free of any corrosion or moisture damage, and comes to us in unrestored condition, ready and waiting to be fixed up into the handsome, habitable home-away-from-home it deserves.
The History and Paperwork
- Built in 1950
- Based in Nevada for much of its life
- Purchased in 2022
- One family-owned since arriving in Spain
- Silver Streak trailers were produced in limited numbers, making them highly sought after by collectors
The Condition
- Overall length: 22ft, Body length: 20ft, Width: 7.4ft
- The vendor notes that the pipe frame and belly pan remain in as-new condition
- Unpolished aluminium body with rich natural patina
- Some gentle corrosion and patina to the non-aluminium fittings and hinges
- Distinctive 'Alien Eyes' window
- Spacious interior with classic mid-century design elements
- Original wood panelling, upholstery, and furnishings
- In need of some restorative work before the cabin is habitable
- Some corrosion and wear to the interior fittings
- Upholstery is a little patina'd but free of rips and tears
- Cupboards and fittings consistent with age
- Floors are a little tired, but very solid
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