1947 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe

The Mark VI Bentley was an all-new car introduced in 1946, just after World War II. Most have standard bodies built by Rolls-Royce, but some had custom coachwork, such as this example of a one-off body built by French coachbuilder Franay, widely known for their exotic, highly-styled coachwork. This particular example has been widely acclaimed as one of the most beautiful in the world.

It was built for a French industrialist, Monsieur Gudol, and exhibited at the 1947 Paris Auto Show. It was the first car to win a major Concours d'Elegance after WWII. In addition to its outstanding style, it has a host of features including separate compartments to house a variety of glasses and silver stemware, compartments for drinking flasks and crystal decanters, and a custom Franay suitcase in a fitted compartment.

After leaving the original owner, it was acquired by owners who did not maintain it. It was acquired by well-known collector Gary Wales in 1979 in poor condition. Mr. Wales undertook an extensive restoration to bring it to its present pristine condition. During Mr. Wales' 27 years of ownership, it won over 50 major awards at various Concours events throughout the world including Best of Show at the Rolls-Royce Owners Club national meets in 1991 and 1999.

The present owner acquired the car in 2012.