Once a year in the heart of August, something special unfolds on the beautiful Monterey Bay Peninsula in Northern California. It's a bit like an automotive pilgrimage, but this is not your typical average car show. Collectors and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe make the trek to soak in some of the finest automobiles this planet has to offer, all while surrounded by a backdrop that will leave you breathless. We're talking about Monterey Car Week, a tradition that's been revving up since the 1950s and has aged like a fine wine. Over 7 glorious decades, it's become a must-do event for car lovers all over the world.
Monterey Car Week, quite uniquely, comprises a collection of individually orchestrated events. The scheduling of these events can be daunting from one year to the next, as organizers endeavor to prevent scheduling conflicts with concurrent gatherings that target similar enthusiast audiences. The top-tier events of Auto Week do require an admission fee for access to view the exquisite cars on display and participate in the auctions. However, it's a nifty perk that visitors often get the chance to admire these vehicles both before, during, and after the auctions right in the adjacent hotel parking lots. In terms of the cost of admission to certain auctions, it's generally quite reasonable, albeit rarely free. It's worth noting that many of these auctions showcase stunning automobiles, even if they don't necessarily fall into the ultra-high million-dollar category. So, you can definitely enjoy some automotive eye-candy without breaking the bank!
The Classic Motorsports Monterey Kickoff made its triumphant return to the stunning Pacific Grove in 2023...As is the cherished tradition, the show began the Monterey Auto Week celebrations with their very own welcome party, turning the charming downtown of Pacific Grove into a true hub of excitement! The event was full of a splendid array of cars, enjoyed by a great crowd who basked in perfect weather, and experienced that indescribable Monterey Car Week magic that only those in attendance truly understand! This event was previously known as the "Little Car Show" but has since grown to a much larger event that features even more categories of new and classic vehicles!
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Held in conjunction with Hagerty Motorlux Broad Arrow, the Monterey Jet Center Auction made a spectacular two-day return on August 17-18. Seamlessly aligned with Hagerty's reimagined Motorlux event, both gatherings drew thousands of enthusiastic attendees, effectively marking the vibrant kickoff to Monterey Car Week. The live auction event showcased a remarkable assembly of approximately 150 exceptional motorcars that spanned a wide spectrum from pre-war American and European Classics to contemporary collectibles and supercars. It was a truly memorable affair, bringing together automotive enthusiasts and collectors from far and wide.
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As the sun gracefully dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the Monterey Jet Center, a captivating transformation unfolded before our eyes. The venue underwent a kind of enchanting metamorphosis, becoming a haven of luxury, speed, and culinary delight, signaling the eagerly awaited commencement of Monterey Car Week. Motorlux 2023, serving as the inaugural event of this automotive extravaganza, proved to be a truly remarkable spectacle.
Featuring an impressive collection of multimillion-dollar jets, a meticulously curated assembly of rare and distinctive automobiles, a world-class car auction, and a culinary experience that delighted the senses, Motorlux 2023 set an unrivaled standard for the days ahead. It's not merely an event; it's a multi-sensory journey that embodies the pinnacle of automotive and culinary artistry.
As guests stepped foot inside, their senses were immediately captivated by the awe-inspiring sight of a Red Bull Racing F1 car, a thrilling harbinger of the grandeur that awaited them. Mobil 1 added its own touch of splendor by showcasing the 2023 Cadillac V-Series. Fresh from its triumphant third-place finish at the historic 100th 24 Hours of Le Mans.Motorlux 2023 took the culinary experience to new heights, featuring an impressive array of 30 farm-to-table culinary stations. These stations not only presented a carefully curated selection of 24 premium local wines and 30 top-shelf cocktails but also paired them thoughtfully with culinary creations inspired by the automotive theme. The gastronomic offerings were a symphony for the taste buds, seamlessly extending the thematic essence of the automotive journey. Going beyond the realm of automotive luxury, the event showcased a remarkable lineup of aircraft that pushed the boundaries of imagination. From the Airbus Corporate Jets ACJ TwoTwenty to sleek helicopters from Bell Textron, the sky truly was the limit. Many of these flying marvels generously opened their doors for tours, offering aviation enthusiasts an exclusive and intimate experience.
Motorlux 2023 was not just opulent; it exceeded all expectations, setting an entirely new standard for what a kickoff event to Monterey Car Week should embody. From the meticulously curated car displays to the culinary wonders and the collector's dream auction, the event served as a masterclass in luxury and community building. In the words of Peter Fink, Vice President of Events and Experiences at Hagerty, Motorlux provided an opportunity to create "lasting memories year over year." The indelible memories created during Motorlux 2023 are poised not only to endure but also to become legendary in the annals of automotive and aviation history.
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Our team brought our 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 liter example to Motorlux, where the roadster proved to be an absolute showstopper! The SS100 turned out to be a remarkable addition to the event, captivating the crowd with its timeless beauty and elegance as it proudly sat in front of other classics and airplanes of yesteryear! Many attendees couldn't help but marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and historic significance of the SS100, leaving Tom and the team grateful for the opportunity to showcase such a remarkable piece of automotive history at the event!
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Pebble Beach may be the timeless centerpiece of Monterey Car Week, but for many, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion holds a special place. This event unfolds over the entire weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, offering more than just a single day of classic car excitement. Throughout the weekend, you're treated to the sight and sound of iconic cars tearing around the track, reminding us all why they were built in the first place.
The experience is a sensory delight—the sights, sounds, and even the unmistakable smells are nothing short of spectacular. And if you find yourself there, you'll discover numerous vantage points to savor the action. Whether you prefer lounging in the shade, observing cars navigate the legendary Corkscrew, or taking a stroll through the bustling paddocks, there's no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in the event's unique atmosphere. What sets the Reunion apart is its emphasis on the pure joy of cars, making it a more accessible and enjoyable experience for all, without the high-society airs.
For all these reasons, if you can only attend one event during Car Week, this is the one I wholeheartedly recommend. Since it spans the entire weekend, it's remarkably easy to fit into your schedule alongside other activities throughout the peninsula. While we can't share the evocative scents of the Reunion, we can certainly offer a visual feast. I took the time to walk down every row in the paddock, capturing images of nearly every car on display. The range is staggering, from pre-war open-wheel classics to GT and Le Mans legends from a couple of decades back. Chevrolet also marked the 70th anniversary of the Corvette with a special display of race cars and concepts, adding to the visual spectacle. As a result, we've compiled the most comprehensive gallery of the weekend, featuring over 200 remarkable vehicles. So, find a comfortable spot, sit back, and enjoy a leisurely virtual tour through the timeless machinery that graced the Reunion.
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Set against the backdrop of the opulent and inviting Quail Lodge, the auction delivered an atmosphere of exclusivity and luxury, perfectly aligning with the caliber of vehicles on display. It wasn't just a venue it was an integral part of the overall experience, amplifying the allure of the cars and intensifying the thrill of the bidding battles. Every detail, from the meticulously arranged auction floor to the attentive staff, was meticulously curated to craft an unforgettable experience for all who attended. The auction unfolded as a high-stakes affair, attracting bidders from around the world, both in-person and online. The tension in the air was palpable as the auctioneer's gavel sealed the fate of each automotive masterpiece. This event wasn't solely about the cars; it was also about the passionate people who share a deep love for them, fostering a sense of community among like-minded enthusiasts. The auction shed light on some notable trends in the classic car market as well. The robust sale prices underscored a robust demand for well-preserved, historically significant vehicles. Additionally, the diverse array of cars offered, ranging from luxury sedans to vintage race cars, indicated a broadening market, one that is increasingly appealing to a wider spectrum of collectors.
The star of the show was undeniably the 1967 Ferrari 412P, which roared to a staggering $30 million, claiming the title of the highest-selling car at the Bonhams Quail Lodge 2023 sale during Monterey / Pebble Beach week.While the number of cars crossing the million-dollar mark was limited, the results were nothing short of extraordinary. The 1967 Ferrari 412P, with its remarkable price tag of $30,255,000, not only made it the most expensive car sold during the entire Monterey / Pebble Beach motor week 2023 in California but also secured its place as the fourth most valuable Ferrari ever sold at auction. This auction marked a historic moment as it became the most expensive car sold at any Monterey 2023 auction and the priciest vehicle sold thus far in 2023. It also joined an exclusive club as only the fifth car to sell for over $30 million and the 16th to breach the $20 million mark. This momentous sale also ranks as the second most expensive result ever achieved by Bonhams, trailing only the 1962/3 Ferrari 250 GTO, which commanded $38,115,000 at the Bonhams Quail Lodge 2014 auction. The 1967 Ferrari 412P is a truly exceptional vehicle, distinguished not only by its remarkable value but also by its rarity, being one of only two 412Ps ever constructed. The nine-year-long restoration effort breathed new life into this classic, restoring it to its original splendor and making it road-ready once more. Its current finish pays homage to its rich racing history, which traces back to Colonel Ronnie Hoare and his British Ferrari agency, Maranello Concessionaires Ltd. The car's illustrious racing journey included appearances at the Le Mans 24-Hours, Belgian Spa 1,000 Kilometres, and the BOAC 500 at Brands Hatch, competing in the FIA World Championship of Makes.
The auction was further adorned with notable highlights: The 1966 Porsche 906 ‘Carrera Six’ Two-Seat Endurance Racing Coupe, an authentic matching-numbers gem, achieved a remarkable feat by surpassing $2 million, setting a new model record for a Porsche 906. This particular Porsche boasted an impressive racing history, with drivers such as Shintaro Taki, Kenjiro Tanaka, Mashiro Hasemi, and Peter Bellamy, clinching victories in prestigious endurance races, including the Suzuka 1,000 Kilometres in 1967 and 1969, along with the Suzuka 500 Kilometres in 1968. Another standout was the 1909 Lorraine-Dietrich 16.4-Litre Grand Prix Two-Seater, a 114-year-old racing marvel that mesmerized onlookers with its impeccable craftsmanship and enduring performance. The auction block witnessed a captivating 15-minute bidding war, eventually doubling its initial estimate to reach an impressive $1.27 million.The 1949 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Cabriolet, boasting unique Dubos coachwork design, and one of just three surviving short chassis Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Cabriolets, commanded over $2 million, further attesting to the demand for rare and exceptional classics. Finally, the 1957 AC Ace Bristol Le Mans Roadster found a new owner after six decades, achieving a price of $764,000. This storied sports car, originally crafted as an AC Works demonstrator, was transformed by Ken Rudd into an AC Bristol factory entry for the 1957 Le Mans 24-Hour race, where it secured a remarkable 2nd place in its class and an impressive 10th place overall. These remarkable highlights from the Bonhams Quail Lodge 2023 classic car auction underscore the enduring appeal, historical significance, and passionate following of these timeless automotive treasures.
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Gooding & Company, renowned as the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, proudly presented the highly anticipated Pebble Beach Auctions. The event, held on August 18 and 19 at the picturesque Parc du Concours in Pebble Beach, California, brought together the world's most discerning car collectors, buyers, and sellers to celebrate the 72nd anniversary of the Concours d'Elegance. Pebble Beach has held a special place in the hearts of collector car enthusiasts since the 1950s. Over the past seventeen years, Gooding & Company has consistently provided an exclusive and unmatched experience to its international audience during Pebble Beach Auto Week. In keeping with tradition, this year's auction continued to underscore the auction house's prominence in showcasing and selling the world's most coveted and valuable collector cars.
The Gooding & Company Pebble Beach classic car auction, held on August 18 and 19, 2023, at the picturesque Pebble Beach Parc du Concours during Monterey Motoring Week in California, delivered a spectacular showcase of automotive history. Among the highlights, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB emerged as the crown jewel, attaining the status of the most valuable car among the 24 million-dollar results at the Gooding Pebble Beach 2023 classic car auction. The sale witnessed the remarkable transaction of an unrestored 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, which fetched an impressive $9.4 million, claiming the top position at the 19th Pebble Beach classic car auction in August 2023.
While it's noteworthy that nine of the 24 million-dollar cars bore the prancing horse emblem, the Pebble Beach 2023 auction shone a spotlight on American brass-era vehicles, setting new records for Mercer and Lozier marques. The current Pebble Beach auction record stands at $22,000,000, achieved by the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ in 2018. This Duesenberg SSJ is not just the most expensive car ever sold by Gooding but also holds the title of the most expensive American car, the most expensive pre-war car, and, naturally, the marque record for Duesenberg.Ferrari enthusiasts were treated to an impressive array of offerings, with the spotlight on the 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, which secured a remarkable $9,465,000, solidifying its position as the most valuable car at the Pebble Beach sale and the second-most expensive Ferrari across all Monterey 2023 auctions, second only to the $30,2550,000 1967 Ferrari 412P sold at Bonhams Quail Lodge 2023.
Other notable Ferrari sales included a striking 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB in rarely seen Verde Medio (Medium Green), which changed hands for $3,415,000, and a 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Series I Coupé Aerodinamico, fetching $3,167,500. A 1952 Ferrari 340 America Berlinetta with a significant racing history also garnered significant attention, selling for $3,085,000.A pair of Lamborghini Miuras created quite a buzz, with the one-of-a-kind Blu Tahiti (Tahitian Blue) 1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV making its U.S. debut, achieving an impressive $3,580,000. The meticulously restored Rosso Miura (Miura Red) 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 exceeded expectations, selling for $2,260,000 and breaking its own auction record for a P400 set by chassis 3378 at Gooding & Company’s Pebble Beach Auctions in 2021.The spotlight then turned to the Brass Era, where several marque records were set. Gooding & Company proudly presented two remarkable offerings from the Jerry S. Foley III Estate: the 1914 Mercer Type 35-J Raceabout, which commanded $4,790,000 and became the most valuable Mercer ever sold at auction, and the 1913 Lozier Type 72 Meadowbrook Runabout, achieving $1,765,000 and setting a new marque record for Lozier. The historic 1912 Simplex 50 HP Toy-Tonneau, in continuous single-family ownership for an astonishing 111 years, found a new home for $4,075,000.Pre-war classics also held their own, with the beautifully restored, Castagna-bodied 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Cabriolet realizing an impressive $4,515,000. The exceptionally rare 1930 Duesenberg Model J Dual Cowl ‘Barrelside’ Phaeton, one of just seven Barrelside Phaetons built, commanded $2,975,000.
The 1932 Bugatti Type 49 Roadster set a new record for the Type 49 at auction, fetching $1,325,000. However, the top classic Bugatti at Monterey Week 2023 auctions, the 1933 Bugatti Type 55 Roadster, remained unsold, with the highest unsuccessful bid reaching $7.2 million.As a special automobilia highlight, Gooding presented the 2023 Bugatti Baby II in partnership with The Little Car Company and Pebble Beach Foundation. The Bugatti Baby achieved an incredible $262,500, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Pebble Beach Foundation.In summary, the Gooding & Company Pebble Beach classic car auction 2023 proved to be a captivating blend of automotive excellence, with iconic marques, record-setting sales, and remarkable vehicles that left an indelible mark on the Monterey Motoring Week in California.
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The highlight of RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2023 classic car auction was undoubtedly the sale of a 1957 Jaguar XKSS, setting a new model record with an impressive price tag of $13,205,000. While the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM did not find a new owner, the auction saw an impressive 45 cars crossing the million-dollar mark each, resulting in a grand total of $164 million in sales over the course of three exhilarating auction days.Adding to the excitement, RM Sotheby’s also unveiled a stunning 1962 Ferrari 330 LM/250 GTO during the event. This exceptional automobile is set to go under the hammer in New York in November 2023, and it's poised to become one of the second most expensive cars ever sold at auction, promising another thrilling chapter in the world of classic car collecting.
RM Sotheby’s flagship Monterey classic car auction took center stage from August 17 to 19, 2023, at the Monterey Conference Center in California during the annual Monterey / Pebble Beach motoring week. This prestigious event has traditionally held the title of the most significant car auction of the year. In 2023, RM Sotheby’s achieved an impressive $164 million in total sales, boasting an 86% sell-through rate and successfully finding new owners for 45 million-dollar cars.
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS, chassis 707, secured its place in history by becoming the first Jaguar XKSS to achieve a price exceeding $10 million. This remarkable vehicle was originally one of the 16 cars Jaguar produced for street use on surplus D-Type chassis, bearing the designation XKD 564. With a mileage reading of 25,535 miles, this exceptional 1957 Jaguar XKSS retains its originality and proudly showcases its authenticity, complete with the original serial number plate, chassis number stamping, gearbox, engine block, head, and rear axle.
Another key highlight of the auction was the 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti, chassis 1883 GT, which was initially announced as "sold" during the RM Sotheby’s auction. However, the highest bid of $8.6 million was not accepted before the final gavel fell, leaving uncertainty about the final sale price. This California Spider, the second of only 56 short-wheelbase examples built, is a rare gem. It is one of just 18 built with uncovered headlamps and one of three without side vents, further elevating its rarity as one of two fitted with a type 128 F engine.RM Sotheby’s achieved an impressive result of $6,605,000 with the 1959 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Coupe Series III by Pinin Farina. These Superamericas often fail to reach prices that reflect their scarcity. This particular Superamerica, the fourth of 12 Series III examples built, is one of only seven cars factory-equipped with covered headlights. The Ferrari underwent recent restoration and achieved recognition as a Platinum Award-winner at the 2021 Cavallino Classic, a class-winner at the 2020 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, and a best of show-winner at the 2023 Cavallino Modena and the 2023 Concours d’Elegance Suisse.
Steve McQueen’s 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 by Scaglietti also found a new home at RM Sotheby’s, fetching $5,395,000. This result, close to double what a similar car without special provenance would typically command, is a testament to its unique history. Offered from the estate of British collector David Moore, the car had previously been acquired for $10,175,000 at the RM Auctions 2014 Monterey sale.
RM Monterey 2023 also saw a strong demand for late-model cars from the late '80s and beyond, highlighting a notable enthusiasm for these highly optioned vehicles, many of which exceeded their estimated values. Porsche models, in particular, garnered significant attention, with reimagined versions like the 1997 Porsche 911 Remastered by Gunther Werks commanding $1.5 million and the 1991 Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer – Classic Study selling for $1.4 million—both surpassing their estimates. An exceptionally original 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort achieved an astonishing $1.7 million, surpassing its high estimate by over half a million dollars. The remarkable moments continued as a pristine 2012 Lexus LFA in white shattered a world record, selling for over its estimated value at $1.1 million. Unsurprisingly, the Italian marque of Ferrari saw high demand, with a 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO, a first for the model, selling for $1 million, and a 2005 Ferrari Superamerica reaching $978,000—both exceeding their high estimates. These figures underscore the undeniable allure of younger and later-model sports cars. The resurgence of nostalgia for the late '80s and '90s era, coupled with the rarity of well-maintained examples, contributed to their strong appeal throughout Monterey Car Week. The auction also featured the captivating Lost & Found Collection of 20 Ferraris, which achieved surprisingly high prices. Notably, the 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial Spider Series I by Pinin Farina, bearing the marks of its storied history, fetched an astonishing $1,875,000, while the legendary 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C Alloy by Scaglietti commanded an eye-popping $3,305,000.
Another noteworthy sale was the 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Coupe Series I by Pinin Farina, still radiating timeless beauty despite its wear and tear, which changed hands for a substantial $2,810,000.The model record for a Fiat 8V witnessed not one but two increases during the auction. First, the 1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic by Ghia raised the model record to $2,260,000, followed by a 1953 Fiat 8V Berlinetta by Zagato, which further increased the record to $2,900,000 in a post-hammer deal.
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Event founder Gordon McCall embarked on his journey into the world of automobiles at a very young age, initially volunteering for parking lot duties at the nearby Pebble Beach Concours; but his unwavering passion for cars propelled him from those humble beginnings to eventually donning the judge's hat—a remarkable achievement in itself. Over the years, McCall keenly observed the pressures faced by Concours entrants, from the stresses of transportation and meticulous car preparation to eleventh-hour repairs. When the opportunity arose for him to create his own event, he made a bold decision: to prioritize the social aspect over a vehicle's absolute perfection. Thus, "The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering" was born, evolving with each passing year to feature new classes and maintain an air of freshness and excitement in the world of automobiles.
2023 was the 20th iteration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and it unfolded with
all the grace and elegance that enthusiasts and collectors have come to expect from one of the most
opulent car events of Monterey Auto Week! In its 20th year, The Quail has
also become a world-renowned showcase for automotive technology and
design, including no less than 17 unveils from a variety of brands.
This year’s Quail celebrated several influential and significant marques and models, including the 1973 Porsche 911 RS Carrera, Porsche 959, 1950s Bentley R Coupes, and an a focus on many classic Italian-designed cars of the 20th century, including Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati among others.
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After it's successful debut at Motorlux earlier in the week, the team brought the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3.5 liter example to the lawns of the Quail, where the roadster sat in a truly esteemed company...
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With 72 years of tradition behind it, the
Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance stands as the pinnacle of automotive showcases
worldwide. This extraordinary event curates a select group of the most
exquisite and exclusive automobiles in history. It's the kind of place where a
McLaren F1 race car can share the limelight with a classic 1937 Mercedes-Benz
540K Special Roadster, like the one that claimed this year's Best of Show. Just
like the broader Car Week festivities in Monterey, California, the Concours
offers something for every automotive enthusiast.
This year, this prestigious gathering witnessed
a remarkable moment when a rare prewar Mercedes-Benz roadster, originally owned
by the Shah of Afghanistan and one of only three such models still existing
globally, secured the coveted top prize. The event featured an impressive
lineup of 216 cars hailing from 18 countries and 30 U.S. states, all competing
for recognition on the hallowed competition grounds. The highly sought-after
Best of Show accolade was bestowed upon a meticulously restored 1937
Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, presented with pride by Jim Patterson of
the renowned Patterson Collection in Louisville, Kentucky.
Sandra Button, the Chairperson of the
Concours, lauded the 540K for its exceptional blend of strength, graceful
aesthetics, and a rich historical narrative. She highlighted the exhaustive
research and meticulous restoration efforts that had gone into preserving the
Mercedes-Benz's illustrious past.
This victory catapulted Mercedes-Benz ahead
in the race for the most Best of Show titles at Pebble Beach, with a remarkable
total of 10 wins to their name. Jim Patterson, in the glow of this triumph,
likened it to achieving a Triple Crown, noting his previous successes at the
Concours.
This victory catapulted Mercedes-Benz ahead in the race for the most Best of Show titles at Pebble Beach, with a remarkable total of 10 wins to their name. Jim Patterson, in the glow of this triumph, likened it to achieving a Triple Crown, noting his previous successes at the Concours. The competition was fierce, with strong contenders such as the 1930 Mercedes-Benz 710 SS Special Roadster from the Auriga Collection, the 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Corto Figoni Cabriolet showcased by Gregor Fisken, and the 1939 Delahaye 165 Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet owned by the Peter Mullin Automotive Museum Foundation.
The festivities commenced on Thursday with the 25th Pebble Beach Tour d'Elegance, a scenic 70-mile journey along coastal roads that most Concours entrants participated in. Completing the Tour provided a strategic edge in the Concours class competition. In a philanthropic spirit, the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance raised over $2.68 million for charity. These contributions, directed through the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, the event's primary charitable partner, will benefit more than 90 local charities, positively impacting the lives of over 10,000 children annually in Monterey County.Gooding & Company, the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, staged its 19th auction at the venue, showcasing its most extensive catalog to date and achieving sales exceeding $92 million.
As we look ahead, mark your calendars for the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, set for Sunday, August 18, 2024. The event will honor the marques of Packard and Maserati, along with the remarkable creations of Italian coachbuilder Pietro Frua, with further details to be unveiled in the early fall.
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Securing the coveted grand prize at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is none other than a remarkable 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster - as seen in the photo above). This "Best of Show" champion stands as one of just three surviving examples, distinguished as a "long-tail" variant complete with a discreetly covered spare tire. Currently residing within the esteemed collection of Jim Patterson in Louisville, Kentucky, this exceptional automobile made its way to the United States in 1953. However, its journey began far from American shores, as it was originally owned by none other than the Shah of Afghanistan, King Mohammed Zahir. Remaining within the royal family's possession, this elegant masterpiece weathered the storm of World War II at Afghanistan's embassy in France before eventually finding its way to the King's son-in-law. In a unique twist, all finalists in this year's competition featured Pre-War (pre-World War II) vehicles. In a tightly contested field, this extraordinary 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster emerged victorious, outshining rivals that included a 1930 Mercedes-Benz 710 SS Special Roadster, a 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C23 Figoni Cabriolet, and a 1939 Delahaye 165 Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet. Interestingly, this marks the third consecutive year in which 1930s Mercedes models have secured the coveted "Best of Show" title.
