Formidable Barn Find

January 29, 2019 by Bonhams

Vanden Plas Princess Belonging To Charles Aznavour - The French Frank Sinatra - Uncovered By Bonhams

A 1966 Vanden Plas Princess 1100 originally belonging to Charles Aznavour has been uncovered by Bonhams specialists after having been stored in a his sister's chateau for decades. It will be offered at Bonhams Grandes Marques du Grand Palais Sale in Paris on 7 February.

Charles Azanavour was the first registered owner of the car, and he bought it new in 1966. Azanavour was a French-Armenian singer and songwriter. His career spanned more than 70 years and he recorded more than 1,200 songs during his lifetime. He was one of the most popular French singers and sold more than 180 million records. He was voted Entertainer of the Century by CNN and beat legends such as Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan in the popularity vote. Aznavour was deeply involved with humanitarian events and politics, and in 2009 he was appointed ambassador of Armenia to Switzerland. In 2017, a year before his death, he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame.

The car is still registered with its original plates and is offered with the carte grise signed by Charles Aznavourian - his full name - and an autograph to the current vendor, only the second owner. It has not been driven by the second owner, so the last person at the wheel was Mr Aznavour himself.

Paul Gaucher, motor car specialist at Bonhams, commented: 'This motor car is a piece of French musical history. Charles Aznavour was loved around the world for his contributions to music, song writing and entertainment. This beautiful little car is in astoundingly original condition and has been driven by just one owner - Mr Aznavour. It is offered without reserve at our Paris sale in February.'