CHANDIGARH, Feb 21: A rare piece of agricultural history, a 1921 Lanz Bulldog HL-12 tractor, has been sold for a staggering 1.25 crore in Jalandhar.
The vintage machine, which had been lying in a dilapidated building near Bhagat Singh Chowk, was recently loaded onto a truck to begin its journey to a museum in California, US Resident Puneet Vadera noted that while many neighbours viewed the century-old vehicle as mere scrap, it remained a priceless specimen in the world of vintage machinery.
The journey to this record-breaking sale saw significant interest from various collectors. Initially, a Mumbai-based tractor firm offered 2 lakh for the relic, followed by a subsequent bid that reached 28 lakh. However, these offers were declined in favour of a final deal with an international firm that recognised its historical value. The tractor is now destined to become a primary exhibit in an American museum, preserving its legacy as a pioneer of early 20th-century engineering.
The Lanz Bulldog HL-12 is renowned for its unique technical specifications, featuring a single-cylinder hot-bulb engine. This specific model required the engine to be pre-heated before starting, after which it could deliver substantial power even at low speeds.
During its era, the 12-horsepower machine was a versatile workhorse, widely utilised for ploughing fields, operating water pumps, and powering mills. Its transition from a forgotten corner in Jalandhar to a prestigious international collection highlights its enduring status as a significant historical heritage. (UNI)
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