The Ford GPA, also known as the "Seep" (Sea+Jeep), is a WWII amphibious vehicle that was only built between 1942 and 1943. The concept was developed by Ford and naval architects Sparkman & Stephens Inc., better known for their sailing yachts. Ford was awarded the contract to manufacture the jeep that could surmount rough terrain and navigate the perilous journey from troop ship to shore. GPAs first saw duty in the amphibious assault at Salerno. Ford would produce fewer than the 12,778 GPAs they contracted to deliver to the Army. Very few have survived. Its rarity and unique design make the GPA rightly regarded as the holy grail of WWII military vehicles.
The GPA's main assignment was to transport soldiers from offshore troop ships past beachhead landings, to limit exposure to hostile shore fire. The Seep's running gear (the engine, transmission, transfer case, and axles) were all essentially the same as the Ford GPW land jeep, but incorporated an improved 12 volt electronics system, featured a rudder controlled by the steering wheel and unique power take-offs for a propeller, a large bilge pump and a capstan.
Once on the open water, a built-in spray shield keeps waves from washing over the front deck. Mist that makes it above the spray shield is taken care of by a vacuum motor windshield wiper on the driver side, and a manual windshield wiper on the passenger side. A spare tire and anchor are mounted on the rear deck. Inside, two PTO levers operate the propeller and the bilge pump. Leather seat cushions double as life preservers.
GPA 3936 is believed to be one of fewer than 100 surviving examples worldwide. The GPA was delivered to the army on December 12th 1942. Number 3936 never saw active duty. The Army held the GPA as military surplus until 1954. The operator of a Ford dealership in Kansas was its first civilian owner. The GPA's proud new owner brought the vehicle to his ranch where the family would use it on private property, that included a sizable river. The GPA provided years of enjoyment before it was retired and stored in the basement of the Ford dealership.
After years of searching, in 2003 the consignor was ecstatic to have located the ultimate amphibious vehicle for sale (the GPA). Having always lusted after an amphibious vehicle but never quite satisfied with the land/sea performance of the more common, readily available options, the consignor jumped at the opportunity. The GPA had layer upon layer of white, yellow, and blue paint on top of the original olive drab. The body had numerous dings and dents and a few rusty areas, but its most important characteristic was its completeness from bow to stern, including almost all of its original, nearly impossible to source components. After taking possession of the GPA, the consignor sent the car to American Classic Restorations of Uxbridge, Massachusetts, where it underwent an extensive 5-year restoration. The extensive research and care that went into the restoration produced one of the world's finest and most correct Ford Jeep GPAs. The GPA is also fitted with a beautifully restored, correct and operating SCR-610 radio transceiver manufactured by Bendix.
Since its museum quality restoration in 2008, the Seep has been lovingly cared for and sparingly used. The Seep has participated in local parades and on several occasions taken to Wallum Lake in Douglas State Forest, MA, for a nice cruise on the water, where the amphibious vehicle really shines. No matter how many times you drive the Seep from land to sea, the absolute feeling of true joy and intoxicating excitement is never diminished.
Accompanying the vehicle are copies of invaluable documents including the maintenance manual, parts manual, patent diagrams, radio installation and operation manuals, and spare parts and pre-restoration photos. It is rare to find a Ford GPA in any condition, let alone one that has been restored to such a high level. The chance to acquire this piece of American history is not to be missed.
Please note that this car is titled with chassis number GPA3936.
The Buyer's Premium for this auction is 10% of the Hammer price.
For all registrable vehicles, Bonhams will be working in conjunction with Connecticut dealer Ted Tine Motorsports LLC, license no. N2562. Please note that following the auction history documents and accompanied items may ship with the vehicle or from Bonhams offices. Titles will be mailed via FedEx from our San Francisco office, but please allow up to 30 days to receive the title. Titles that are announced as 'in transit' at the sale may take additional time.