Advertisement of Motor Cars British India, 1911 Prints
Two rare 1911 newspaper advertisements of motor cars for the British India Government. Interesting advertisements for the Standard and Darracq motor cars. The Standard car’s advertisement states that-
“Pre-eminent in the preference of Princes and Potentates.
“H.R.H. The Durbar Standard Car built for his Majesty The King, and for the Royal Suite of visitors to the Durbar of the Coronation at Delhi.
“Government of India. 33 Standard cars built for the Nepal Expedition for His Majesty and Visitors.
“Vice Regal. Standard cars built at the Vice Regal command for the Royal Suite.
“Bombay Presidency. Standard Cars built at the Bombay Presidency’s command for the use of His Majesty during his stay in Bombay…”
Apparently, Standard Motors bagged major orders from the British India Government. For King George V and his entourage’s conveyances in the Delhi Durbar of 1911. Besides bagging orders for the conveyance of the King during his engagements in Bombay. And finally for the King’s Nepal hunting expedition. Also bagging orders for the Viceroy’s use. Since it was the dawn of automobiles, most other brands were also establishing themselves like the Mercedes Benz, Rolls-Royces, Daimlers, Buicks, etc. They would later become great names in automobiles.
The other advertisement is for the Darracq motor car, a French automobile company. That was sold to a British company in 1902 when it was in its infancy. But had to close down after changing hands once or twice or probably more. The car’s engine had serious design flaws which could not be properly rectified. However, in 1911 the Darracq bagged orders for 30 of their cars for the Delhi Durbar. Click on the photo for better view.
Did you know- that Darracq’s cost of GBP295, as mentioned in this 1911 advertisement, would be now GBP41,457 after adjusting for inflation, converting into Indian currency rates it would be slightly more than Rs 4 crores.
From the collection- 1964 M. Suriyamoorthy Charcoal Art Abstract (#15)., 2 Old Photos – Eden Gardens & William Peel Statue Kolkatta., Marina & Senate House Madras 1900s, 3 Old Postcards., Electric Trams For The City of Madras, Old Print 1973.
