A RARE vintage single-cylinder engine recently sold for an Australian record price of $180,000.
The two horsepower Crossley engine, built in 1896, fetched the record price at a deceased estate auction on account of Robin Knight, Cape Bridgewater. The Crossley is believed to be the only one of its type in Australia.
Auctioneer Bruce Lowenthal said Mr Knight was an avid collector and restorer.
"Many of the auction items represented Robin's passion," Mr Lowenthal said.
"He was clearly ahead of his time in terms of collecting and restoring rare engines."
The oil-fired, open crank shaft Crossley engine was restored to original working condition. It attracted bids from local and international buyers and was eventually purchased by a Victorian buyer who intends to display the engine at Lake Goldsmith, Victoria.
Another rare Columbus engine fetched $42,000 at the auction and was bought via a telephone bid from the United States.
