Client Spotlight
Richard Thams
Hagerty PCS client Richard Thams lives the hobby lifestyle.
"I've always had an interest in cars," he said. "I had three Model As in the 1950s, but I sold them to build a garage. It wasn't until the ‘70s that I had the funds to begin building my collection again."
Today, he owns 12 vehicles – several of which he's restored himself. He also belongs to 12 car clubs and is an active participant in the concours circuit, regularly attending some of the country's biggest events: The Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance in Florida, the Glenmoor Gathering in Ohio and the Meadow Brook Concours d'Elgance in Michigan. He is also a founder and current board member of the Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival, a northern Michigan concours.
Concours d'Elegance is French for "competition of elegance." They are the most elite events in the collector car hobby and Pebble Beach – held in Monterey, Calif. every August – is the king. The vehicles that participate in these events are often flawlessly restored and are meticulously maintained. Rarely are concours-quality cars driven, except from their trailers to the show field (Richard Thams is an exception because he drives all his cars). Judging at these events is extremely demanding, with trained experts examining every aspect of the vehicle for quality and correctness. Usually, non-original modifications are not allowed.
Traditionally, concours showcase vehicles produced before the end of World War II, though some events have classes to honor later models. Richard Thams' cars fit primarily in the former category.
"I like to collect rare vehicles," he said.
His penchant for rarity is evident in his collection, which includes a 1914 Regal Underslung currently on loan to a museum; a 1931 Model A Roadster Standard (one of 5,000 produced that year); a 1939 Plymouth Convertible Sedan (one of 387 built in 1939 and one of only 20 surviving today); a 1946 Buick Super Estate Wagon (one of 570 produced that year and one of only four surviving today according to the Buick Club of America and the National Woodie Club); and a 1947 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon (one of 300 produced in '47 and one of three remaining).
Additionally, he owns two Model Ts – a 1913 Touring and a '26 Roadster Pick-Up. Rounding out his collection is a 1911 Cadillac Touring, a '32 Lincoln Sedan, a '41 Cadillac Convertible Coupe, a '77 Buick Regal and a 1988 Cadillac Allante.
He's entered several of his vehicles in the various concours he attends regularly, but he never enters the same car in the same event two years in a row – adhering to one of show-going's many unspoken rules.
"You try not to repeat cars," he said. "You should really give a two- or three-year break between cars."
Over the years, he's enjoyed his participation in events and the recognition bestowed on his prized collection.
But he says winning's not the best part.
"My favorite thing about events is that they're fraternal. You get to meet people with similar interests and see them from year to year. They tend to help you whenever they can – whether you're looking for a particular car or a certain part. It's great for networking and I've built some great friendships over the years."
Hagerty Private Client Services (PCS) offers personalized service, dedicated account executives and benefits tailored to clients with rare automobiles, large collections or specialized needs. Vehicles valued at $250,000 or more, or collections totaling $500,000 or more, qualify for PCS service.
Our PCS team can help you provide specialized service and products for your special clients. Please call 888-460-6040 or e-mail pcs@hagerty.com for more information.