In 1924, Walter P. Chrysler took over the Maxwell Motor Company, renaming it Chrysler and introducing Imperial as their top-of-the-line offering. By 1931, the CG Imperial had evolved into a unique vehicle, with a massive 145-inch wheelbase chassis and body styled to give a low-slung and rakish appearance, being clearly influenced by the Cord L-29. Powered by a 385 cubic-inch straight eight capable of producing 125-horsepower, the CG Imperial had advanced steering and suspension geometry, as well as four-wheel hydraulic brakes, offering superior road manners and the ability to reach 100mph.

Despite its superior performance, only 339 examples of the CG Imperial were produced over a three-year period, making it a highly sought-after classic. Fans of American Classics appreciate the CG Imperial's exquisite road manners and outstanding performance, deeming it the most beautiful Chrysler ever built.

Purchasing an Imperial with factory-catalogued coachwork by LeBaron was a popular choice for drivers, as there was an array of styles to choose from. This made one-off competition from Packard and Lincoln rarer. Approximately six of the 339 CG Imperials built between 1931 and 1933 were shipped to the coachmaker Waterhouse and Co. of Webster, Massachusetts. Currently, only a few of the 1931 CG chassis remain with custom bodywork, and the three convertible Victoria’s bodied by Waterhouse are thought to be the finest. Charles and Moses Waterhouse, former employees of the John B. Judkins Company, founded Waterhouse in 1928. It was designed to provide bodies for the du Pont motor car, which they achieved after they bought the assets of the Woonsocket Manufacturing Company and recruited designer George Weaver. The advanced bodies they created for the du Ponts earned them favor with the northeastern aristocracy. During their short run, Waterhouse created 251 bodies for Lincoln, du Pont, Packard, and another 31 bodies for Pierce-Arrow, Stutz, and Marmon. It is estimated that no more than six Waterhouse bodies were made for the Chrysler Imperial, and only the three mentioned above have survived.

Their signature style was the Convertible Victoria, which was crafted with a long-wheelbase chassis for long, graceful lines and extra space for stowage when the top was folded, giving a sleek and elegant look. When the top was up, the low roofline, long blind quarters, and boot between the rear fenders gave the car a striking appearance, especially atop the stunning Chrysler CG chassis.

Built on June 15, 1931, this 1931 Chrysler CG Imperial Waterhouse Convertible Victoria is a truly remarkable motorcar, boasting highly prized coachwork and a unique history. In 1939, Calvin Collins, a resident of New York, bought the car from the McCormick Garage. The Collins family enjoyed the Chrysler for a few years until World War II. Young Scott Collins made sure the car was never scrapped duri