The 1937 Delage D8-120 S Aerodynamic Coupe, a rare and exquisite French Art Deco car, is set to be auctioned at RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction, with an estimated price tag of $5-6 million. This car, once the prototype for the Delage D8-120 S model, boasts a handcrafted, custom aluminum-and-steel body designed by the young French designer Georges Paulin. It's a true masterpiece, and its history is just as fascinating as its design.
Personally, I find the story of this car's journey particularly captivating. From its unveiling at the 1937 Paris Salon to its role as Louis Delâge's daily driver, and then its involvement in a fender-bender that led to Saoutchik's modifications, it's a tale of evolution and transformation. The restoration process, led by Sam Mann and Stone Barn, was a meticulous effort to reverse the Saoutchik modifications and restore the car to its original glory.
What makes this car truly special is its unique blend of history and design. It's not just a car; it's a piece of art, a symbol of the automobile as art. The fact that it won the coveted Best of Show award at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2005 further cements its status as a collector's dream.
In my opinion, the auction of this car is a testament to the changing market for prewar cars. The interest in these rare and special vehicles is on the rise, and I predict that the buyer of this Delage will be someone in their 40s, a younger generation than one might expect.
The Delage D8-120 S Aerodynamic Coupe is more than just a car; it's a ticket to the world's leading car events, and I believe it will continue to garner awards in the future. The price of that ticket, estimated at $5-6 million, is a small price to pay for such a rare and beautiful piece of automotive history.
