Classics to See in the Bonhams|Cars Scottsdale Auction

Bonhams|Cars will kick off its auction calendar with The Scottsdale Auction in Arizona on January 25. This event coincides with the world-renowned Arizona Concours d'Elegance, a celebration of automotive design and is part of the auction season which has been established in the desert for more than 50 years. Complementing the Concours, the annual Bonhams|Cars auction will feature an array of classic cars, headlined by a 1931 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Sedan, formerly owned by Her Majesty Queen Maria of Yugoslavia and will be offered at an estimate of $2,000,000-3,000,000.

The storied legacy of Duesenberg in American automotive history is illustrious, particularly highlighted when the Duesenberg Model J made its grand debut at the 1931 Paris Salon, captivating its European audience precisely as intended. The allure of this model reached Her Majesty Queen Maria of Yugoslavia, who acquired this particular car off the show stand and expressed satisfaction with her new purchase, calling it 'supreme elegance.' Over the years, this vehicle spent time in the US before reaching its current custodian who took ownership in 2002 and entered the car in Italy's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, where it took second in class in 2005. Stunningly presented in black over red interior, it features chrome wire wheels, and is minimally adorned, allowing the elegant Franay design to shine. Offered in superb order after more than twenty years of single ownership and retaining its original body, engine, and chassis, this Model J represents a one-off opportunity to acquire a spectacular motorcar fit for a queen.

Embodying the pinnacle of American classic-era automobiles, an important 1930 Cadillac V-16 Roadster, will also be offered in the sale. This vehicle, boasting a well-documented history from its initial delivery, was first acquired by Tag Whittall, then became a cherished part of John Moir's family collection for an impressive 90 years. It has been restored in its original colors and is estimated at $1,000,000 - 1,200,000.

Another icon of history offered from the same collection, is a 1936 Packard Model 1407 Twelve Coupe Roadster. A premier luxury automobile of the US from the early 20th century, this Packard is a limited edition Twelve series that is highly sought after, especially as a Coupe Roadster. The flowing and elegant Coupe Roadster is not short on style, with one of the most desirable body styles offered in 1936 and finished in a stunning livery of black over a red leather cabin. The car is expected to reach between $325,000 - 375,000.

A special section of the sale comes from the Maine Classic Car Collection, which is known for their finest collection of rare and vintage motorcars. Among the 27-car collection, all of which are being offered without reserve, is a 1962 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Cabriolet. A timeless and elegant piece of Mercedes design, this car is estimated at $140,000 - 160,000.

The Scottsdale Auction will see a variety of offerings beyond the classics. Last year's sale saw success with modern supercars as well as vehicles over 100 years old. From the 2006 Maserati MC12 selling for $3.8 million to the 1912 Simplex 50hp which sold for $4.8 million, making it the most expensive pre-war American car ever sold. More details on the 2024 sale to be announced in the coming weeks.

Photo credit: Bonhams
posted on conceptcarz.com