Tag: rm auctions

ON THE BLOCK: The $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge

March 10, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

If you’ve watched or participated in any of the /DRIVE eBay challenges on YouTube, you know how this works. In this case, your Petrolhead Godmother just plopped $2,000,000 USD in your lap to spend as you like at this weekend’s auctions during the Amelia Island Concours d”Elegance. Using the auction companies’ HIGH estimates, pick one or pick several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to haul home. We’ll get started:

From Bonhams – Thursday, March 12

Lot 118 — 1962 Austin Healey 3000 MK II BT7 2+2
Estimate $50,000-$60,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $51,700 including premium

In recent years, Big Healeys have gone through a bit of a downturn after a sharp rise in the mid- to late-2000s. Within the last year or so, the market has caught up. It appears now to have made the corrections and adjustments such that they’re realistically priced, vis à vis a Series 1 E-Type on one end of the spectrum and say an MGB at the other. Among the Austin Healey 3000 MKs, many find the middle-gen MK II the most appealing, particularly in the 2+2 BT7 configuration. The MK II had the shortest production run and was an ideal bridge between the rawness of the MK I’s triple carburetors, along with a classic oval dash, and the MK III’s refinements (roll-up windows and a wraparound windscreen). This example radiates its British Roadster-ness, with the Old English White paint over Red interior. It is said to have had a thorough restoration in the late 2000s (just as the market flattened) and reports to be an excellent performer with a strong motor and 4-speed overdrive gearbox. Bonhams estimate of $50-60K is right on the money.

Lot 168 — 1912 Peerless Model 60 Runabout
Estimate $250,000-$350,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $440,000 including premium

It may be the type of car that we pursue only when someone dumps $2M in our laps (or we have a discretionary $350,000 laying around), but given such an event, a Peerless Runabout would certainly be one to go after. Among its superlatives are first to offer electric headlamps, first to offer an electric starter, and, in the case of the Model 60 presented here, most cubic inches ever stuffed under an American-made hood (824). The Peerless Model 60 was arguably the fastest thing on the road in the Brass Era. This example was resto-mod’ed in the ‘60s. In that process, some liberties were taken to improve the car’s drivability. These include a shortened chassis, as well as modified steering and brakes, along with coachwork enhancements that give it the Runabout appearance of a 45-hp Model 32 whilst retaining the 66-hp 13.5-liter lump. So while not original, it is a gorgeous representation of motoring’s earliest days and carries with it some notable provenance.

From Gooding and Company – Friday, March 13

Lot 021 — 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB Vetroresina
Estimate $175,000-$225,000
UPDATE SOLD FOR $192,500 including premium

Less than a decade ago, the predecessor of the iconic Ferrari 308 GTB, the 246 GT, wasn’t even considered a real Ferrari, with its “entry-level” Dino badging. Ever since, many of us have sat by helpless as their values have increased ten-fold in that time. As those at the very highest echelons of automotive investing have often pondered what the next 250 GTO might be (the answer: the 250 GTO is the next 250 GTO), the broader masses are wondering whether the 308 will follow its progenitor toward the half-million dollar mark. This isn’t a science and there are no formulas and even less guarantees, but it does stand to reason. Specifically, the first to get there would likely be one of the early lightweight 308 GTBs, whose bodies were made of GRP fiberglass, or vetroresina. Only 712 were made before other weight savings allowed for steel bodies that were close to the Vetroresina’s overall weight. At last summer’s Silverstone Classic, a steel bodied, targa-roof, wet-sump 1979 308 GTS set a world record at £82,225 (around $124,500 USD). A much rarer glass GTB should do considerably better. Offered without Reserve.

Lot 24 — 1987 Lamborghini Contact 5000 QV
Estimate $425,000-$475,000
UPDATE: HIGH BID $375,000

With early examples of the Lamborghini LP 400 Countach “Periscopa” now fetching seven figures, logic would have it that later generations will follow suit, at least to some degree. The most likely candidate would be the 25th Anniversary editions of 1988, but on the heels of those would be the 48-valve Countach 5000 QV (quattrovalvole). Only 610 of these bulls were built. This one looks to be especially unique in its Pearl White finish and Ivory interior. Furthermore, most of them were ordered with the optional rear wing whereas the owner of this one (who owned it until 2014) opted to retain the original lines of the LP 400, complemented by swapping the gruesome US-mandated bumpers with the svelte ones it was designed to have. With a fresh service, it is described in “as new” mechanical condition. The quintessential bedroom poster car of the ’80s, this Countach might be a relative bargain at its high estimate of $475,000.

Lot 024 — 1976 Alpine A110
Estimate $100,000-$140,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $88,000 including premium

When the name Alpine is mentioned in automotive circles, the vast majority of people—at least those of us in the US—think of car stereos. Even among enthusiasts, many consider Alpine—the car—to be a Renault sports/GT. Alpine (pronounced AL-peen-UH), however was an independent manufacturer that outfitted their chassis and fiberglass bodies with, primarily, Renault drivetrains until being bought out by Renault in 1973. Shortly thereafter, Alpine Renault gained notoriety in motorsport by winning the inaugural World Rally Championship with a competition-spec A110. Although they never reached the same level of success in competition, the rally inspiration carried through until the end of the A110’s run in 1977 (replaced by the edgier A310). This included the French Racing Blue livery, racing seats and auxiliary lights. This example comes from its penultimate year and is equipped exactly as such. On a purely objective basis, the Alpine A110 can be seen as a poor man’s Porsche 911 2.7 Carrera RS. What it lacks in raw horsepower, it makes up for with its uniqueness and French charm. Okay, maybe not entirely but it is a lightweight rear-engined production car-turned motorsport-turned production car for about half the cost of the RS Carrera. And, should the Nissan GTR-based Alpine A110-50 come to be, there could be a new appreciation for a distinguished brand. Offered without Reserve.

Lot 034 — 1934 Packard Eight 1101 Coupé Roadster
Estimate $180,000-$220,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $143,000 including premium

The Packard Eight was the right car at the wrong time. The absolute worst time. By the time of the 11th Series (Packard did not follow model-year convention) at the end of 1933, the US was just beginning to emerge—but still deeply in—the Great Depression. The American consumer was struggling to buy bread and while there was plenty of wealth at the opposite end of the scale, those customers had much more exclusive Duesenbergs and Rolls-Royces to consider. Those in the middle that could afford a new car were flocking to the Ford V8, costing more than five times less (granted, far less creature comforts as well). The Packard Eight simply couldn’t find a significant market. For this reason alone, it deserves a place in a collection today. This 1101 Coupé Roadster (complete with rumble seat) remains remarkably original, never in need of total restoration, though it did have some high-quality reconditioning at various times in its life. It has a known owner history and has been exceptionally cared for. At roughly 10% of comparable Duesie or Rolls money, this Packard Eight is a delightful example of ’30s luxury. Offered without reserve.

From RM Sotheby’s – Saturday, March 14

Lot 126 – 1934 Bentley 3¹⁄₂-Litre Drophead Coupé
Estimate $275,000-$375,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $231,000 including premium

While Packard and Duesenberg represented what an American car should be in 1934, Rolls-Royce and the then recently acquired Bentley Motors represented the peak of the European automotive landscape (much as they do today). Where the Packard was about comfort, strength, durability, and sheer mass, the Bentley was, as E.W. Hives, the 3¹⁄₂-Litre’s principal designer in Derby put it, “to be driven fast with safety or will tour without fuss and noise.” While any Derby Bentley is special, this particular 3¹⁄₂-Litre is that much more so for being largely bespoke for its initial owner, a Mr. M.S. Spencer-Naim. Mr. Naim ordered a three-position cabriolet body to be built by Thrupp and Maberly, as well as a unique speedometer-clock cluster and shortened steering column and gear lever. After serving in WWII, Mr. Naim returned to growing family and regrettably sold Chassis B75BL to R.E. Merchant who was its steward until 1984, when it was sold to Howard Brown of California. Mr. Brown intended to do a bare-metal repaint, but sadly died before it was complete. Mr. Brown’s wife sold it to its current owner who completed the repaint, along with new carpets, replaced wood and new wheel discs. With only four passionate owners, it’s no surprise that it retains an extraordinary documented history, including log books, build sheets and the original owner’s handbook that have been issued by Bentley Motor Cars, and the service file, which dates back to 1953. This is a car that lends itself perfectly to historic tours and/or concours, from club events to the international stage. For roughly new Continental GTC Speed money, this Bentley has million dollar looks and a priceless history.

Lot 197 — 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
Estimate $150,000-$200,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $286,000 including premium

On its own, this is a stunning example of a rare pre-SL Mercedes-Benz sports-tourer. Although not a pure sports car legend like the 300 SL Roadster, production numbers are significantly lower for the 220 Cabriolet A (the ‘A’ being two seats plus a “kinder,” whilst the ‘B’ had a full four seats). Only 1,278 were sold (vs. 1,858 SL Roadsters). Its 2.2-litre inline six, with its innovative “oversquare” architecture (shorter stroke than bore dimension), was to become a stalwart Mercedes-Benz power plant well into the ’70s while its rich leathers, carpeting and wood never allow its occupants to forget that they are in a Mercedes-Benz. With only 20 miles since an older restoration, this one looks as new with exceptional paint and fresh interior. The custom fitted luggage and Telefunken radio are also a nice touch. By itself, easily worth the $200,000 high estimate, but as a complement to the Bentley we bought earlier (Lot 126), it is an absolute must-have.

Our spree totals $2,045,000. Yes, its over, but we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.

Update: March 15, 2015 – Out three-auction, three-day total came to $1,432,200. This leaves us with over $500,000 to close a deal on the 1988 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV, the only no-sale of our picks. At the end of bidding, auctioneer Charlie Ross announced that its high bid of $375,000 was “very close.”

Bargain of the Day honors, if one can call them that, belong to our Bentley 31⁄2-Litre which sold below its catalogue estimate for $231,000 including premium.

Bonhams

http://goo.gl/mgucJd

Gooding and Company

http://goo.gl/dTUh7Y

RM Auctions | Sotheby’s

http://goo.gl/S9PprM

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch RM Monaco May 10, 2014

May 2, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

LOT 131 – Aston Martin DB2/4 Coupé
Without Reserve – €150,000 – €200,000 [moto+match estimate: €200,000]

The DB2/4 was introduced in October 1953, and it provided a lot more room over its predecessor. This was accomplished in part by raising the roofline slightly over the DB2 and reducing the fuel tank capacity by two gallons to add to rear seat room. Other notable changes included a wraparound rear windscreen, larger front and rear bumpers, and the addition of a hatchback, which is believed to be the first fitted to a production car. 140 bhp, 2,922 cc DOHC six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension, live rear axle with parallel arms and coil springs, and four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,510 mm

Chassis no. LML/980
Engine no. B6A/50/147
A splendid example of Aston Martin’s gentleman’s tourer
Includes Aston Martin Heritage Trust Certificate and factory build sheet
Less than 300 miles accumulated since restoration

Lot 133 – 1968 Toyota 2000GT
€545,000 – €620,000 [moto+match estimate: €650,000]

The 2000GT’s story starts not with Toyota but with Yamaha, who decided to design a sports car after years of producing motorcycles. Yamaha first marketed its design to Nissan, who ended up not taking on the project, so the car was then marketed to Toyota, who saw this tiny little sports car as an opportunity to shed its reputation of producing rather conservatively designed automobiles. Some inside the company might have considered this move to be a gamble for a company who had never sold such an automobile, but it was clear that the 2000GT could give Toyota and Yamaha’s designers and engineers a chance to compete on the world stage. The 2000GT was powered by a 150-horsepower variant of the inline-six cylinder engine that was originally used in the Toyota Crown, and Yamaha adapted it for use in a sports car by installing double overhead camshafts. Tipping the scales at just 2,400 pounds, with a 49/51 weight distribution, it was quite light on its feet, and it could reach a top speed of 135 mph. Despite being considered the underdog, the 2000GT certainly got a lot of exposure. Both Toyota and Carroll Shelby found success with the 2000GT on the race track. It won the 1967 Fuji 24 Hour endurance race in the hands of its manufacturer, and Shelby’s team took four chequered flags in the 1968 season with the 2000GT. One specially constructed example even found its way onto the silver screen in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice, with Toyota having to produce a convertible version in order to fit actor Sean Connery comfortably. Even though the car appeared onscreen for a small portion of the film, it monumentally increased the 2000GT’s exposure to the public, along with Toyota’s. Toyota initially planned to produce and sell nearly 1,000 examples annually, but by the time production ceased in 1970, just 351 examples had been built. Many potential consumers found it difficult to justify the $7,000 cost of the 2000GT, as that was $1,000 more expensive than a Jaguar E-Type or Porsche 911 and over $2,500 more expensive than a Chevrolet Corvette, especially considering that Jaguar, Porsche, and Chevrolet were much more established, especially in the United States, than Toyota was at the time. Whilst Toyota did not hit is goal of 1,000 examples annually, the 2000GT definitely received all the exposure it was due thanks to its racing endeavours with Carroll Shelby and its stint on the silver screen.

Chassis MF10-10174 was produced on 19 January 1968, finished in Pegasus White, and delivered new to its home market of Japan as a right-hand drive model. This 2000GT, being offered today from its native country, has recently completed a restoration, where it was repainted in a striking shade of burgundy and fitted with chrome Borrani wire wheels. The brilliant paint colour is beautifully accented by the chrome details on the car, and it attractively showcases the design features of this stunning sports car. Surly this would be a wonderful example to drive and enjoy, as it showcases Toyota’s brilliant European-inspired design. The 2000GT is a hugely important car in the history of the automobile. Without the 2000GT, there might not have been a Honda NSX or a Nissan 240Z, and the industry on the whole might have looked very different from what it is today. The 2000GT shattered the preconceived notions of what the world thought a Japanese car could be, and it changed the automobile industry for the better. Collectors have finally come to realise the importance of these wonderful little sports cars, and they have become quite desirable in recent years. This 2000GT oozes a sporting elegance that is wonderfully stated by its dark red paint and Borrani wire wheels, which work to accentuate its brilliant design. It would be a wonderful example to drive and enjoy. 150 bhp, 2,000 cc Yamaha DOHC hemi-head inline six-cylinder engine, triple Solex twin-choke side-draft carburettors, five-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel power-assisted Dunlop disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,329 mm

Chassis no. MF10-10174
Beautifully restored in dark red with chrome Borrani wire wheels
Japan’s iconic sport’s car

Lot 165 – 1956 Porsche 356 A Carrera 1500 GS/GT Speedster by Reutter
€780,000 – €900,000 [moto+match estimate €900,000]

In addition to retaining its original matching-numbers Type 547/1 engine, which is a highly desirable and rare distinction, this early 356 Carrera Speedster claims some unusual specifications that bridge the GS and GT variants. According to the Kardex warranty card, this 356 A was originally distributed to the United States for retail by Max Hoffman’s renowned dealership in New York in August 1956. Records of Karrosserie Reutter’s indicate that chassis number 82189 was originally finished in white paint and fitted with a black top and matching complementary interior trim. Although this car was officially designated as a Carrera GS, it possesses some features of the forthcoming performance-positioned GT variant that are believed to be original to the car. According to one Speedster expert, this Carrera was equipped by the factory with an upgraded engine, headlight grilles, and a 550 Spyder-style wing mirror, and it was appointed without a heater, making it one of a handful of GS examples with features of the forthcoming GT trim package. By some accounts, this sensational Porsche was raced at Sebring, Daytona, and Riverside in its early years. Then, in 1992, it was re-imported to Germany and acquired a year later by collector Hans Reuter, who oversaw an exacting restoration that prepared the car for enjoyable touring. In addition to rebuilding the legendary Carrera engine to Spyder performance specifications, the restoration saw to several tasteful upgrades, such as the addition of Koni Classic adjustable dampers, a 356 B Super 90-specification camber compensator for the rear suspension, a 12-volt electrical system, an upgraded ignition system, Argus steel-braided oil lines, and new Michelin XAS tyres. The 356 was also equipped with an original set of Rudge wheels, which are rare items that alone are estimated to value up to €35,000. The opportunity was additionally taken to endow the car with a couple of physical cues that were more becoming of its GT specifications, including the retro-fitting of a louvered engine lid and the addition of a stainless steel, Sebring-style, mesh-covered, single outlet exhaust. In this handsomely restored state, though painted red at the time, the car was depicted in Dr Michel Thiriar’s 1998 book, Porsche Speedster: The Evolution of the Porsche Lightweight Sportster, 1947–1994. This beautiful 356 Carrera has most recently been subjected to a bare metal repaint in its original white finish, and it has also been re-trimmed with a new red interior. During that time, the engine was fully serviced by Porsche specialist Orlando in Italy. The Speedster is currently equipped with Cibie spot lamps, and it is also accompanied by side-screens, a correct tool kit, a tonneau, and a proper spanner for the Rudge wheels. It retains its original matching-numbers Type 547/1 engine, and as such, this early Carrera Speedster would certainly draw significant favour at discerning concours d’elegance. Along with its visual appeal, the car can be equally enjoyed for its high-revving performance, with heart-racing glimpses of the special flat-four’s dual-cam torque. As the 60th anniversary of Porsche’s ground-breaking 3rd and 4th overall finish at the 1954 Carrera Mexican road race is soon approaching, there could hardly be a more opportune time to acquire an important early Carrera such as this handsome Speedster. The wonderful product of Stuttgart’s race-bred engineering abounds with authentic details, like a correct GS/GT tachometer and the original Weber fuel-pressure regulator, which is a rare and desirable mechanical component. Future ownership can look forward to the unmistakable growl of the legendary Carrera motor, which promises the singular gravitas of the Speedster’s unique, low-screened, open-top motoring experience. 110+ bhp, 1,498 cc DOHC air-cooled Type 547/1 horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with twin Solex 40 P11-4 carburettors, a four-speed manual transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with shock absorbers, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,100 mm

Chassis no. 82189
Engine no. 90638
Original matching-numbers Carrera engine
Rare combination of Carrera GS and GT trim levels
Copy of original Kardex warranty card
Desirable Rudge wheels
Ideal for Porsche club events and vintage rallies

Lot 166 – 1969 De Tomaso Mangusta
€160,000 – €210,000 [moto+match estimate €250,000]

The Mangusta offered here was beautifully restored for its present owner with painstaking attention to detail, and it is likely amongst the finest examples in existence. It is freshly completed and has been refinished in what is believed to be its original factory colours, a dazzling green (simply called Lime, found below a later colour change to red) over black leather upholstery, which is a combination that is oh-so-appropriate for a sports car produced at the wild end of the Swinging Sixties. Unlike many of these cars, which have been hot-rodded over the years, this example has always been preserved in very much its original specification, which is something that the owner held true to during its restoration. The early 289 V-8 and ZF1 transmission, which is the same as was used in the GT40, were fully rebuilt, and care was taken to restore all components in their original finish. The car retains the original sand-cast wheels, with their slightly rough texture, and dials lettered in Italian, suggesting that this Mangusta may have originally been a European-delivery example. Importantly, the car retains its very rare original jack and tool roll, as well as the remote-starter button under the bonnet, allowing a mechanic to turn over the engine during maintenance. This Mangusta is currently domiciled in the UK, and it will be sold with its V5C registration and recent MOT test certificate. It is interesting to note that mangusta translates to “mongoose”, which is one of the few natural enemies of the cobra. The name is indicative of the performance to which the ferocious Mangusta aspired and which this beautifully restored example can undoubtedly achieve. 271 bhp, 289 cu. in. overhead-valve Ford V-8 engine, five-speed ZF manual transmission, unequal length tubular wishbone front suspension with coil springs and anti-roll bar, wide-base unequal length wishbone rear suspension with trailing arms, coil springs, and anti-roll bar, and four-wheel power-assisted Girling disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,500 mm

Chassis No. 8MA890
A beautiful, muscular icon of the 1960s
The most desirable quad-light, early-production iteration
Equipped with the high-performance Ford 289 V-8
Freshly restored in its stunning original colour
Offered with its original jack and rare tool set

Lot 189 – 1973 Fiat 130 Coupé by Pininfarina
Without Reserve €10,000 – €15,000 [moto+match estimate €18,000]

After its debut at the 1969 Geneva Motor Show, the Fiat 130 topped the Italian automaker’s line-up. It boasted such features as standard power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes, and it also ushered in Fiat’s first use of an alternator rather than a generator to produce electricity. Hidden beneath its sharp, attention-grabbing lines was a choice of new overhead-camshaft V-6 engines in either 2,866-cubic centimetre or 3,235-cubic centimetre form, with this example utilising the latter. The new V-6 line was based on the 128 Type A powerplant and was developed by a noted Ferrari engine master, engineer Aurelio Lampredi. With its own Pininfarina-penned design on the inside and out, the 130 Coupé wowed at the 1971 Geneva Salon, proving it to be even more striking than the four-door saloon. It was a large coupé that featured a host of luxury features inside, like state-of-the-art fibre optics to light its instrument panel and switches. Just a hair under 4,300 examples of the 130 Coupé were built, and amongst those was this delightful, original low-mileage example. It has since been in the long-term ownership of Francesco Stanguellini, who’s racing pioneer father Vittorio Stanguellini ran with the likes of Enzo Ferrari and the Maserati brothers in Modena. This 130 Coupé has been an integral part of the Stanguellini Museum in Modena, which is a hidden gem known only to true cognoscenti. It has been kept in impressively fine original condition and is equipped with power steering and rare air conditioning. This car appears ready to be enjoyed immediately, as it is motivated with willing V-6 power. It has elegant and timeless style, courtesy of Pininfarina, which befits its grand touring aspirations. 165 bhp, 3,235 cc overhead-camshaft V-6 engine, three-speed Borg Warner automatic transmission, torsion bar front and coil-spring rear independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 2,720 mm

Chassis no. 130BC 0002020
Long-term ownership by Francesco Stanguellini
Fewer than 32,000 kilometres from new
On display for many years in the Stanguellini Museum

ON THE BLOCK: Stunning Aston-Martin DB 2/4 MkII Supersonic Highlights RM Auctions-Sotheby’s Automotive Artistry Sale in New York

May 7, 2013 / moto+match / 0 Comments

BLENHEIM, Ontario (April 30, 2013) – RM Auctions, in association with Sotheby’s, is delighted to announce a new sale in New York City, November 21. The exclusive auction will celebrate the motor car and its place in the history of design, focusing on iconic styling and the artistry of combining automotive function with exquisite form. Featuring approximately 35 handpicked automobiles from around the world, the auction will be held at Sotheby’s global headquarters in New York and will represent the first time a major collector car auction has been held in Manhattan in over a decade. With an emphasis on bespoke design and ‘best of category’ examples from the world’s most admired automotive marques, the sale will feature one of the most significant collections of motor cars offered in auction history.

As a prelude to the sale, an extraordinary exhibition showcasing the vehicles on offer will be held November 19 – 20 on the 10^th floor galleries at Sotheby’s New York—a setting customarily reserved for the display of world-class works of art offered at Sotheby’s.

“In recent years, collector cars have enjoyed phenomenal interest from enthusiasts and experts who value their historic importance and rarity alongside the achievements of their creators, coachbuilders, engineers and designers, who must be counted amongst the world’s great artistic visionaries,” says Rob Myers, Chairman & Founder, RM Auctions. “Our upcoming New York sale will celebrate the historic importance of the automobile—a singular achievement at the crossroads of art, technology and innovation—at the same time paying tribute to the creativity, styling and imagination of the world’s leading coachbuilders. We are delighted to be working with the team at Sotheby’s for this exclusive event. From the exhibition on their 10^th floor galleries to the incredible caliber of the consignments on offer, it will certainly be a sale like no other.”

Maarten ten Holder, Sotheby’s Managing Director, Americas, commented, “We are thrilled that this autumn Sotheby’s will host the first ever automobile exhibition in our 10th floor galleries when 35 of the world’s finest and most important cars will be shown ahead of the RM sale on November 21. As the first car auction in Manhattan for over 10 years and one of the most significant ever held, this is set to be an unprecedented and historic event.”

Leading early highlights for the sale is the stunning 1956 Aston Martin DB 2/4 MkII ‘Supersonic’, chassis AM300/1/1132. A truly one-off creation, ‘1132’ received its bodywork from the renowned Ghia coachworks of Turin, Italy. It is the only Supersonic built on an Aston Martin chassis, was first displayed at the 1956 Turin Auto Salon and was driven by American grand prix racing driver Harry Schell. The car’s first registered owners were newlywed New Yorkers Gail Whitney Vanderbilt and her husband, the record-setting water skier Richard C. Cowell, who took delivery directly from David Brown and were photographed with this car by Life magazine whilst living in the South of France. It was then acquired in the late 1950s by noted American collector Robert Lee and benefits from known ownership history through the present day. Offered for sale from the distinguished James Patterson Collection, it is the recipient of a recent, thorough, no-expense-spared, Pebble Beach award-winning restoration.

“A completely bespoke creation, “1132” is unlike any other Aston Martin of its era,” adds Myers. “From the oval egg-crate grille and covered headlamps to the arrow-like spear running along its sides, Supersonic tailfins and Jet Age tail lamps, it is truly a masterpiece of the automotive designer’s art and emblematic of the most advanced postwar alloy coachwork. Considered alongside what the automotive industry offered the public in 1956, this Aston Martin was not only fast and exclusive, it was downright wild! It’s pop art on wheels!”

The striking Aston Martin, which carries a pre-sale estimate of $1,500,000 – $2,000,000, will be on display in Sotheby’s York Avenue lobby, New York, from today (April 30) through May 7.

Further information on the sale will be provided in the summer.

Tag: rm auctions

ON THE BLOCK: The $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch RM Monaco May 10, 2014

ON THE BLOCK: Stunning Aston-Martin DB 2/4 MkII Supersonic Highlights RM Auctions-Sotheby’s Automotive Artistry Sale in New York

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