1930 Duesenberg Model J Torpedo Boattail Speedster

This car was once owned by John Factor aka Jake "the Barber" Factor.

Duesenberg set out to build a car that would compete with the most powerful and luxurious cars of Europe. Known as the Model J, this car represented the finest in American craftsmanship, engineering, and elegance. When it was unveiled at the New York Auto Show on December 1, 1928, the introduction of the Model J was such an important event that trading was halted on the New York Stock Exchange. It was not only the most expensive car in America, it was also the fastest and the most technologically advanced car available.

The Model J instantly became a status symbol among the wealthy and famous. Gary Cooper, Al Capone, Jake “The Barber” Factor, Clark Gable, Greta Garbo, Howard Hughes, and Mae West were some of the famous Duesenberg owners.

The most infamous person to own this Duesenberg was John Factor, a Prohibition-era gangster and con artist affiliated with the "Chicago Outfit" and Al Capone. Known as Jake the Barber, he later became a prominent businessman and owner of the Stardust Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Weeks after his staged kidnapping, John Factor turned up, claiming to have escaped from the kidnappers.

More recently, this car underwent a four-year restoration by Kevin and Jason Marsh of Utah. Utilizing a combination of original and reproduction components, top Duesenberg experts assisted in the recreation of this elegant car. This Duesenberg has been driven only 75 miles since restoration.