While I generally cover Hagerty, Bonhams, and RM Sotheby’s auctions because of the frequency and size of their sales, they are certainly not the only houses to watch. Like Bonhams, many houses that primarily focus on decorative arts, antiquities, jewelry and more also specialize in collector cars. Two of those auction houses, Aguttes and Osenat, are worth including in your watch list. Both have some exciting lots crossing the block on this Market Monday.

Aguttes Tour Auto 2024 Auction

Founded by Claude Aguttes in 1974, this family-run auction house is a major player in the art market. In addition to art, wine, antiquities and other rare works, the house also auctions classic cars and automobilia under its luxury and art of living arm. 

This year, their Tour Auto 2024 auction at the Porte de Versailles in Paris offers the discerning collector of watches, luxury items, furniture and collector cars a chance to acquire rare automobilia such as one of Lewis Hamilton’s race-worn Mercedes Formula 1 helmets and several wind tunnel testing models for Porsche.

Currently located in Spain, this final generation example of the iconic Porsche 356 Carrera line is said to have a well-documented ownership history and regular ongoing maintenance since its acquisition. It was last acquired in 2009 at the well-known Techno Classica essen show and was originally a USA delivery. 

Representing the top of the line of the 356 model at the time, this car appears to be in Signal Red, but the Reutter paint number is unfamiliar, and there are some incorrect details here and there but it does have a desirable sunroof. Apparently it’s a very nice driver, so if you like to actually exercise your rare Porsches, this may be a nice buy at the lower end of its estimate.

One of only 56 examples to be built, the 3.0 Liter Carrera RS was a milder version of the engine that powered the 911 RSR with a more traditional aluminum case versus magnesium. The brakes were lifted from the 917 and the car had a 5-speed gearbox and widened arches to fit wide wheels. 

While it may look like an early G-series car, it’s truly a lightweight purpose-built sports car and justifies the significant premium over the run-of-the-mill 911 or 911S. With a racing history that includes the German ADAC championship, this race prepped version is ready for historic competition events. With an estimate of €1-1.4M, you’ll need deep pockets to join the club. 

With a history dating as far back as 1815, Osenat is another French auction house specializing in art, vintage cars, jewelry and more. Its primary location and auction setting is at the Hôtel des Ventes de Fontainebleau across from the iconic chateau.

Gerald Bugnon is a Swiss millionaire and collector of vintage Alfa Romeos, some of which are presented for sale in Osenat’s eponymous auction. Also included in the Gerald Bugnon Collection are some charming pieces of automobilia. 

Max Hoffman is a well-known figure in the annals of motoring history. His success in sales and his influence with a number of European marques has led to icons like the BMW 507 and the Porsche Speedster. 

The Giulietta Sprint and Spider were yet more vehicles that we can partially attribute to Hoffman. This particular example is described as one of the earliest prototypes of the Spider convertible produced by the coachbuilder Pininfarina as validation vehicles. Those familiar with the standard Giulietta will see quite a few unique styling differences, one of which is the incredible 3-pod integrated gauge cluster. This rare beauty is estimated at €350-450K.

This car is one of my all-time favorite designs. Perhaps it’s because it combines the influence of one of my favorite Italian designers, Giovanni Michelotti, the style of Italian design house Zagato, and the oh-so-purposeful and sexy Kamm tail.

One of only 44 produced, this 1963 Alfa Romeo SZ is essentially a Giulietta Sprint Veloce with a lightweight aluminum body and a truncated rear (coda tronca) to improve aerodynamics for racing in competitions such as the Mille Miglia. Capable of a top speed of 124mph in 1963, it performs as well as it looks.  

In addition to these models, Osenat is also auctioning Bugnon’s 1969 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 and 1964 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ. If you’re a member of the Alfisti, this is an auction to watch.

Wolf and Mare provides appraisal services for sellers and buyers of collector European cars. If you’re interested in acquiring a professional appraisal, give us a call or drop a line!