Large collection of antique tractors to sell in Watertown, SD Auction
Clayton Zemlicka loved tractors, combines and other machinery. And over his career, he accumulated dozens of tractors that will be sold June 1 in a live Steffes Group auction.
“Mr. Zemlicka could fix almost anything, and if the part he needed didn’t exist, he could make it himself. So when he saw an opportunity to purchase a classic tractor or combine, he’d get it and repair or restore it in his own shop in Watertown,” said Steffes representative Eric Gabrielson. “He did a lot of custom combining, and every summer, he’d haul his combines to Texas and work his way back north. Along the way, he’d often see a piece he liked, and he’d take it home with him,” he said.
Among the items to be sold are eight Allis Chambers tractors from 1939 to 1951, and dozens of Case tractors from the 1930s to the 1960s. The collection includes more than 15 Case DCs from the 1940s and 1950s.
“About 90 percent of these machines were in sheds and are well preserved. It’s really a remarkable collection, and a rare opportunity for collectors to obtain classic machinery that is hard to find,” said Gabrielson.
The auction also includes Zemlicka’s machine shop tools and other equipment, including Massey-Ferguson headers, John Deere drills and planters, as well as plows, field cultivators, trucks, hay mowers, conditioners and rakes.
Bidding in two rings will begin at 10 a.m. at 16017 462nd Avenue, Watertown, South Dakota, with Internet bidding available by prior arrangement. Those seeking additional information may view the inventory online or call 320-693-9371.
