A collection of more than 230 old cars, belonging to a mysterious collector known only as Mr Palmen, is going under the hammer in the Netherlands. The cars, which include some rare and valuable classics, have been stored for decades in a warehouse in Dordrecht, away from the public eye.
The owner of the collection, who is now in his 80s and has no heirs, was forced to sell it due to his age and medical reasons. He had a passion for cars and collected them for over 40 years, without focusing on a single brand or model. He followed his heart and amassed a diverse and eclectic assortment of vehicles, ranging from a 1928 Ford Model A to a 1991 Ferrari Testarossa.
The collection was acquired by Gallery Aaldering, a vehicle dealer based in Brummen, a few months ago. The dealer decided to auction off the cars online, starting from May 28 and ending on June 6. The auction is open to anyone who registers on the website of BVA Auctions, the company handing the sale.
Some of the highlights of the collection are:
- A 1955 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider America, one of only 240 ever made, estimated to fetch between 600,000 and 800,000 euros ($730,000 and $970,000).
- A 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8 Roadster, one of the most iconic sports cars of all time, estimated to fetch between 150,000 euros and 200,000 euros ($180,000 and $240,000).
- A 1967 Citroen DS21 Decapotable Chapron, a rare convertible version of the futuristic French sedan estimated to fetch between 100,000 euros and 150,000 euros ($120,000 and $180,000).
- A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring, a highly sought-after model among Porsche enthusiasts, estimated to fetch between 400,000 euros and 500,000 euros ($480,000 and $600.000).
The auctioneer Hans van der Pluijm said that the collection is unique and special because it reflects the personal taste and love of Mr Palmen for cars. He said that the cars are in various states of condition, from pristine to rusty, but they all have a story to tell.
He added that the auction is a rare opportunity for car lovers and collectors to own a piece of automotive history. He expects a lot of interest and bidding from both local and international buyers.
