While wandering through the Russo and Steeles tents prior to their Scottsdale auction I was stopped in my tracks by a Panther, an English pre-war style reproduction sports car using Jaguar parts. The owner, realising I was an automobile journalist operating on pauper's income, quickly recognised that I wasn't a prospective buyer. But he was eager to tell me about his collection of pre-war Ford gearshift knobs, which he is keen to sell.

Apparently they were given to dealers as "merit to service" awards and today represent a unique slice of automotive memorabilia. I was assured that everything I wanted to know about his Panther and the gearshift knob collection would be found on his Website. Hmmm... sir, your site could use a little work. (A lot, actually.) I did learn that the collection is mounted in an inlaid walnut display case and included knobs from the Ford Rotunda, Atlantic City, Dallas, and San Diego. Contact the gentleman at 480-699-0432 or through the Website. By the way, the site currently lists the Panther as "sold" but you may enjoy learning more here.