1935 Bugatti Type 57 Galibier Sedan

This Bugatti Type 57 wears Galibier Saloon coachwork. It is based on an early Series 1 chassis and running gear, however, the body originates from a later Series II car. This was not uncommon, as many cars were separated from their original coachwork during WWII or received parts for various reasons over the years. The early history is not fully known, however, the body is believed to have been sourced from a later chassis.

In the 1970s, the car was located in France and owned by Adrien Maeght. It was sold from the Maeght collection in 1994 and acquired by A. Arman of France, who preceded two additional short-term owners. By 2013, the car was on the West Coast of the United States where it received professional mechanical care. The exterior is finished in black and red livery and has acquired a moderate patina through use and time. Period-correct details include the dual trumpet horns, Marchal Aerolux headlamps, and Klaxon semaphores. In the front are the horse-collar grille, fender stone guards, and polished sills. It rides on silver-painted wire wheels shod with appropriate black-wall Michelin rubber. Inside, there are tan carpets, a wool broadcloth headliner, a wood dash, Jaeger instruments, and a four-spoke, wood-rimmed steering wheel.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2019