Equipment
RHD. Figoni & Falaschi body. Chrome wire wheels, blackwall tires, sliding sunroof, Marchal headlights, fog light, driving light.
Condition
#1 Concours
World-class. Could compete in the world’s best Concours d'Elegance events.
One of 16 teardrops believed built, the only one on the long wheelbase chassis, and the first of the series. First owner Antoine Schumann who raced as Nime at Le Mans with Pierre Louis Dreyfus (Ano). Bought by Freddy Damman in 1947, class winner at 1948 Spa 24 Hours with Constant Debelder. With Damman until 1979. Sold to the immediate prior owner in 1981 who kept it until 2004. Spectacular coachwork with sunroof, chrome flashes, small rear deck spline and split rear window. Freshly restored to concours condition by RM Restorations for the late John O'Quinn on the basis of the very complete, well preserved 3+ condition car sold here in 2005. Never shown or displayed. John O'Quinn Estate.
Market commentary
Acquired in Monterey in 2005 for $3,685,000 with a fortune lavished on it since in a complete, sympathetic restoration. It is above reproach in all respects, not the least in its history and preservation, and is ready to head straight to Amelia Island or Pebble Beach where it will be a Best of Show contender. The bidders received it enthusiastically and generously. Their judgement on value is definitive: this is market, and is still a lot of car and racing history for the money.