While our main focus here at Hemmings Motor News has always been collector cars, we’ve long had a section for boats toward the back of the big brown book that’s mostly populated with beautiful wooden boats such as this 1929 Chris-Craft Model 7. After all, even us hopeless landlubbers can still find something to appreciate in these aquatic classics. From the seller’s description:
The Chris-Craft Model 7 is a classic mahogany runabout configuration that allows a large cockpit forward with two sets of seats and a single cockpit aft of the engine hatches for three additional passengers, this arrangement allows for eleven passengers.
Purchased new in 1929 from the E J Mertaugh Boat Works in Hessel, Michigan by the Pflueger Rod and Reel family for use at their Les Chenaux Island residence. The build sheet lists the optional windshield mount spotlight, Krol one man top and LUX C0w fire extinguisher system.
During this period of ownership it benefited from regular maintenance by a local dealer until it was sold back to E J Mertaugh, who incidentally was the first franchised Chris-Craft dealer, who restored her and sold her in 1988. Interestingly, she features in the 1995 Norm Wangard book “Mahogany Boats”.
Extensive restoration work has been done by Vintage Boat Restorations of Bristol, CT, owner, Jim Murdock, is considered one of the top wooden boat restorers in the United States. Mechanical work included complete rebuilding of the original A70 motor, as well as the exhaust system, new fuel tanks were fitted and the boat was properly rewired.
All of the hardware has been re-nickeled and sealed by Britton Brass with clear coat. The Krol top, which is extremely rare, has been redone, including side curtains, in the exact original color, and a tonneau cover fitted to the third cockpit, as original. The new leather upholstery is correctly done in original Chris-Craft green. The inside hull has been repainted in the proper olive green.
The hull, which was specifically designed for the A70 motor, is in excellent original condition.
A two axle trailer made for the boat is included.
Gadabout needs nothing and is ready for this season.
See more vehicles for sale on Hemmings.com.