August: the time of year when there is a mass exodus of the ‘big boys’ as they gather at Carmel-by-the-Sea for the Monterey Car Week and the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance.
This year was no different. Or… was it?
This is where the market is truly judged on how the year is flowing, what we see heading for the horizon value-wise, and what is really ringing the bell.
The one thing you can always look forward to, is that there is a lot to talk about; it’s a space, physically and intellectually, where classic car experts from all over the world congregate. If you are part of these rarefied circles, then you must have attended. It’s where the classic car market is put to rights.
With over 1,200 cars up for auction with five of the ‘big boys’, resulting in over $400m changing hands with a sale rate of 68%, the figures are not bad, but we are not afraid of saying that those are not results that the media regularly labels as “fantastic”, unless you were a buyer.
Several expensive cars made the headlines with far too many Ferraris to mention: the showstopper was estimated between $40m to $50m but only sold for $30m, so a happy buyer there.
Analysing the results (and remembering the highlights!) has been a task, but an interesting one.
The concours is always an eye-opener and some fantastic motorcars on display are detailed perfectly to show off the car at its best. There are some really good results and it is good to see some Brits in the finals…
The cars are only ever as good as the people preparing them; the owner displaying them must choose the right people for the task, and that is becoming more difficult today.
The end of August and beginning of September have much going on the British event diary: shows, concours, racing and too many auctions to follow properly, but all are full to capacity, so the classic car market is still strong.
We have seen a surge in the number of classic cars being used in the London ULEZ zone, as classics are slipping through the net, it will not be long before the London Mare Mayor spots the loophole and cashes in.
If you are looking to sell your classic, thinking of buying one or looking for advice on restoration projects, we are always here to assist.
Project Vantage is the car that changed Aston Martin’s future in more than just design and engineering future. A milestone of a car which will never date.
Unique oppertunity to purchase a piece of Aston Martin history.
The unique Aston Martin Virage Coupe Works 6.3 Factory Demonstration car MINKY, a hero of its time and still in outstanding condition. What dreams are made of.
The most publicised car of its time and driven by some true greats. Outstanding in every way.
1987 V8 Vantage Zagato, just one of 52 examples and this is one of the best. Original left-hand drive with the five-speed manual gearbox, stunning example.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage Zagato, Left Hand Drive with Automatic Transmission, so well documented finished in British Racing Green with Tan Leather trim.
A really original gentleman’s motor car, with all the properties of a 1980’s era and still recognized with true style. 1981 V8 volante with only two previous owners.
Traditional Aston Martin British Racing Green with Tan Leather interior, black Mohair hood, this manual left hand drive car is so stylish and a cool motor car.
This concours winning car is probably the BEST prepared Vanquish and is fitted with the SDP (Sports Dynamics Pac) which went on to be the Vanquish S without the super light weight wheels. The car started life as the company demonstrator being the car used for PR and customer demonstration use.
This Aston Martin Vanquish S Ultimate Edition number 50 of 50 was first delivered in June 2007 one of ONLY 20 right hand drive cars and one of the most original in outstanding condition. This is one of the last cars hand built at the Newport Pagnel factory.
This outstanding Aston martin Vanquish delivered by Emil Frey, Switzerland in July 2002 to the first and current owner finished in Sky silver with tan interior trim, just perfect in every way. The car has had all its up-dates and main dealer serviced.
This special Aston Martin Vanquish S was the first production car delivered and is one of the smartest and well documented cars currentley on the market, it is quite something special.
This outstanding Aston Martin V8 Volante original left hand drive with automatic transmission and ONLY 22,000 documented kms. One of the last V8 Volante’s built and one NOT to miss.
This special Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante was inspired by the enthusiastic and passionate follower of Aston Martin cars, Andre Bloom. Andre had an eye for the unusual and a positive drive to get exactly what he wanted, and this unique car was his dream machine.
1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante with a Manual transmission , having had the complete chassis refurbished, the car is totally rust free. They do not come along very often.
A true unbelievable Aston Martin with the largest history file covering the whole story of the car. Wonderful example and driving car. This is NOT your usual DB2/4, it is just right.
The two litre Aston Martin cars of this era are great to drive, always admired with a thumbs up. Good touring car and well maintained, ready to motor on.
This Ferrari was originally delivered new in Italy in 1962 as a Ferrari 250GTE.
It was then bought by a prominent Ferrari collector who was also an official dealer for Ferrari at the time.
The exquisite lines of this beautiful all aluminium body were commissioned in the eighties and completed by the renowned Ferrari coach-builder Mario Allegretti of Modena; a man renowned for coach-built Ferrari cars.
This excellent example has been in the same family since 1970’s and has been totally restored in the early years of ownership. The history is impeccable and well supported to verify the outstanding condition of the car, which has been totally pampered all of its well-used life.
Owned by the current lady owner/driver for the past three decades or so; this is the 4th from last car produced out of 118 total examples ever made. This is a well-known car in Swiss Rally circles and is now being sold. Fine example with a welth of history.