• Webb's will auction an outstanding selection of collectors' cars and motorcycles at Due Drop event centre Sunday 27 August, 2.pm.
• Headlining the sale is a glamorous Aston Martin DB6 — often regarded as the final embodiment of the authentic Aston Martin experience. Estimates of $750,000 - $825,000 makes it the most high-value vehicle to be presented by Webb's this year.
• A pristine condition 2000 Mini Cooper Sport Mk VII represents the end of an era for Britain's beloved small car.
• Of note too is a 1954 Buckler 90 that was returned to full racing glory after being found in a derelict state.
Webb's auction house is readying to bring a dazzling assortment of collectors' cars to market at the end of this month. Despite economic uncertainty, interest in the Collectors' Cars, Motorcycles, and Automobilia auction remains high, with Head of Collector Cars Caolán McAleer stating that collectible vehicles have proven to be a hit with those looking to invest in appreciating assets during difficult economic times.
'With the power to transport drivers and onlookers alike to another era, classic cars are a true passion investment — but they are also an astute one. In New Zealand, buying and selling cars is not hindered by the burden of capital gains tax, allowing strong trade and rapid turnover. Recent years have seen insatiable demand for premium, top of the market collector cars, especially those with intriguing provenance, and this continues even within a cooling wider economy.'
The Star
Headlining the sale is a car that could be the definition of 'quiet luxury'. Introduced in 1965 as the successor to the famed DB5, the DB6 marked the end of the renowned DB line of Aston Martins — those produced during a golden era from 1947 to the early 1970s, when the Aston Martin brand was under the ownership and direction of English industrialist David Brown. Among enthusiasts of the brand, it is often regarded as the final embodiment of the authentic Aston Martin experience.
This spectacular example is one of the most impressive to grace the Webb's lot. Not only is the car a rare classic to begin with, but it has also undergone a complete 'open chequebook' restoration including a full engine rebuild (increasing its displacement from 4.0 to 4.2 litres), the installation of twin electric fans, upgraded suspension, and a body refinish in Aston Martin's period-correct 'Old English Pewter'.
'Vintage Aston Martins are widely recognised as resilient investments, akin to blue-chip assets like fine art, and this DB6 exemplifies that trend. Owning a Newport Pagnell model is a special privilege, and this particular car's status as one of only 268 right-hand drive Mk1 models produced in the coveted Vantage specification further adds to its desirability. This is the most prestigious vehicle to come to us so far this year, and it is a true pleasure to bring it to market'
–Caolán McAleer, Head of Collectors' Cars
The Cinderella story
With her kauri carvel construction, pohutukawa trim, and carbon fibre reinforced hull, this classic woody is a beautiful example of New Zealand boat design — one that enthusiasts will recognise as being not only of high quality appearance and build, but also of rich heritage.
Designed by Archibald Logan and built by Lidgard, Crème Brûlée spent the majority of her life early on Lake Tarawera. Originally
A 16 footer with four seats, this is a beautiful craft in its restored glory, as stunning as it was the day it launched.
'This Mini is a true time capsule — registered in 2001, it is the last true Mini sold new in New Zealand, and has been kept in pristine condition. It represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, embodying the significance and charm of the iconic Mini brand.'
–Caolán McAleer, Head of Collectors' Cars
The End of an Era
The Mini, Britain's beloved small car, had an impressive production run spanning over four decades, with this era concluding on October 4, 2000. Throughout its existence, the Mini transcended its role as a practical vehicle to become a symbol of fashion, a champion in motorsports, and one of the most influential cars in the world.
The 2000 Mini Cooper Sport Mk VII on offer is one of the last of its kind, and was formerly part of the esteemed collection of Roy Savage, a well-known collector. The story goes that his wife, growing tired of waiting at the bus stop next to the Mini dealership, decided to purchase both this example and a green one and drive them home!
With an incredibly low odometer reading of 9,425 kilometres, this is an immaculate example of a British icon — sure to bring joy to its new owner for many years to come.
The Comeback Kid
Another classic restored to its former glory is this beauty from a bygone era. Buckler Cars only produced approximately 400 cars between 1947 and 1962. Among them, the Buckler 90 stands out as a rare and distinctive sports car that holds a special place in automotive history.
One of the key features that set Buckler cars apart was their unusual construction, utilising a spaceframe design. This rigid and lightweight structure consisted of interlocking struts arranged in a geometric pattern, providing both strength and efficiency. The result was a car that offered nimble handling and impressive performance.
This particular example made many successful race appearances during the mid-20th century before being abandoned. After being discovered in a derelict state in the 1980s, it was meticulously restored back to its performance best and has since gone on to be raced and rallied in various Classic, Historic, and Vintage race meets to this day. Proof of the 'built-to-last' quality of such a classic.
The live Collectors' Cars, Motorcycles & Automobilia auction will take place at Due Drop event centre in Manukau on Sunday 27 August, 2pm.
ABout webb's
Established in 1976, Webb's is New Zealand's premier multi-department auction house. Our team of specialists offers industry-leading expertise in Art, Asian Art, Collectors' Cars, Motorcycles and Automobilia, Decorative Arts, Fine Jewels, Watches & Luxury Accessories, and Fine Wines & Rare Whiskies. Webb's has a long and rich history. Founder Peter Webb was deeply involved in the development of key aspects of the New Zealand contemporary art market and auction business. His vision for creating the nation's best auction house is core to our present-day values. In keeping with this, we are leading the auction industry in New Zealand, with cutting-edge marketing and superior service.
Photo credit: Webbs
posted on conceptcarz.com
• Also on offer is a 1933 Lidgard Brothers Boat 'Crème Brûlée' – a gorgeous example of the golden years of NZ boat design.
owned by a local family, she was passed through a number of owners before being discovered in a sorry state Rotorua. Fascinatingly, her original Austin Thetis engine was later found by the current owner at nearby Okere Falls. Both Crème Brûlée and her engine subsequently underwent a full restoration before being finally reunited.
posted on conceptcarz.com
