Unlike in pre-war days, when the first (Series-A) Vincent-HRD v-twin had been created by - in effect - combining two of the existing singles, post-WW2 Vincent's approach was reversed, with the Series-B twin appearing first, in 1946 and the single-cylinder version in 1948. The latter was offered in two forms initially: Series-B Meteor and Series-C Comet. Apart from its Burman gearbox and 'missing' cylinder, the Comet followed Series-C twin lines, featuring the newly introduced Girdraulic front fork and hydraulic dampers at front and rear, while the Meteor retained the old Brampton girders. The Meteor was soon dropped but the Comet continued in production until 1954, offering the same degree of refinement as its bigger brother, albeit with reduced performance. Even so, the Comet combined a 90mph potential with excellent fuel economy, and was the ideal touring mount for the discerning rider who placed civility of manners and quality of construction above outright performance. An expensive machine to produce, the Comet did not sell as well as its maker had hoped and was dropped when the Series-D range was introduced.

Despatched new to Jack Surtees' dealership in London, this matching-numbers (registration/frame/engine) Comet was purchased by its late owner, an enthusiastic Vincent collector, in August 2003 (purchase receipt on file). Presented totally dismantled, 'LYT 795' is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. The machine comes with 'as found' photographs, copies of factory records, VOC Certificate of Authenticity, old-style logbook (issued 1973) and Swansea V5C registration document. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this Lot's completeness or otherwise prior to bidding.