The prototype of the small series, designated Model X was built to compete in the 1930 All-American Flying Derby sponsored by the Cirrus Engine Company.

The Model X, piloted by Lowell Bayles placed second in the race from Detroit to San Francisco and back, averaging 116.4 mph (186.7 km/h) over the 5,541 mile (8,887 km) distance.

In order to obtain unrestricted certification, Granville Brothers produced a revised version called the Model D, the most significant difference being a redesigned and larger tail fin.

The sole example of the Model D built was flown in competition at the Cleveland air races of 1931, where Bob Hall won the Williams Trophy with it, and Mary Haizlip placed second in two of the women's events.

Four of these aircraft were built, and it was in one of them that Zantford Granville was killed in February 1934, attempting to land after an engine failure while avoiding people working on the runway below.