A huge success from the moment deliveries commenced in January 1923, the Austin Seven remained in production until 1939. Sturdy, economical and easily maintained by the home mechanic, the Seven brought motoring within the financial reach of the man in the street, who hitherto would probably have settled for a motorcycle combination. Its introduction helped save the ailing Austin concern, and by the mid-1920s the Seven dominated the light car market in Britain. In essence the Seven changed little in the course of its sixteen-year production, retaining the 'A'-frame chassis, transverse front spring, rear quarter elliptics and four-cylinder sidevalve engine to the end. There were, of course, numerous detail improvements along the way, a longer wheelbase, roomier bodies, coupled brakes and a three-bearing crankshaft to name but four. The sole version available when production commenced was the 'Chummy' tourer. Saloon, fabric saloon and coupe models, plus a roomier tourer, were on offer by 1927 when the example offered here was manufactured. The 'Top Hat', so called because of its upright, formal-looking, straight-sided coachwork, was one of the first Austin Seven saloons, panelled in aluminium to save weight, and with elaborate cloth trim unusual for a British car at the time. The sliding windows and disc wheels are other interesting features of this most handsome Seven saloon. 'OX 7568' was acquired by the museum in 1985 from its then owner Wing Commander Edwards. Restored while in his ownership, the car benefits from an overhauled magneto and is a runner, although we understand that it has not used on the road for some time. It is offered with details of restoration work undertaken and Swansea V5 registration document.