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Milan car show, 1926

Note that both the T35 and the Brescia are "Venduto", sold.
From archiviostorico.fondazionefiera.it

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Quick guide to the best parts of the site

  • All Bugatti types with technical caracteristics, in a large table

  • All Bugatti types with very detailed specifications, descriptions and details, one page per type The most extensive specification-book on Bugattis you have ever seen.

  • All races in which Bugattis competed 94 pages!
  • New Additions

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    Bugatti News

    March 10, 2024
    Auctions results

    RM Sotheby's Dubai Auction, March 9, 2024

    • 1935 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Recreation by Erik Koux
      Chassis "57302", Estimate: $700,000 - $900,000: Sold After Auction


    March 8, 2024
    Two portraits by Carlo Bugatti

    Not one, but two painted portraits by Carlo Bugatti were announced to be auctioned recently.

    The complete history of Carlo Bugatti, and especially what exactly he did after changing to France, remains clouded in mystery. There's silverware (with two silver platters also being announced recently), some furniture, a few paintings and some other items. Nobody seems to have a complete overview.

    More surprising this set of paintings, both are of the same size (92 x 67 cm) were painted in oil on canvas, and were signed "Bugatti" in the lower right corner. No date. Being of identical size, it is probable that the man and woman are indeed a couple, and somehow they seem familiar. Does anybody know who they are?

    If you want to bid on either of the paintings (or both), you can go to the Drouot site for the one or the other portrait.


    March 4, 2024
    Auctions results

    Gooding & Company Amelia Island Auctions, February 29 - March 1, 2024

    • 1925 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix, Chassis 4634 (From the Peter Mullin collection),
      Estimate: $600,000 - $800,000: Sold for $525,000
    • 1931 Bugatti Type 49 Coachwork by Gangloff, Chassis 49377, Engine 305 (From the Peter Mullin collection),
      Estimate: $150,000 - $225,000: Sold for $350,000
    • 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Stelvio, Coachwork by Gangloff Chassis 57606/57699, Engine 499,
      Estimate: $350,000 - $450,000: Sold for $425,000
    • 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Atalante Chassis no. 57767 Engine no. 62C,
      Estimate: $2,400,000 - $2,800,000, Sold for $2,050,000

    Broad Arrow Auctions The Amelia Auction, March 1, 2024

    • 1929 Bugatti Type 46 Cabriolet, Chassis No. 46524, Estimate: $850,000 - $1,200,000, Sold for: $461,500


    February 29, 2024
    Bugatti presents the new V16 engine

    And let's us hear it's roar.
    This is what Bugatti itself has to say about it.

    “IF COMPARABLE, IT IS NO LONGER BUGATTI” – THE NEXT CHAPTER

    With each generation of its hyper sports car, Bugatti has shifted the benchmark of design, engineering, performance and craftsmanship to new heights. And this year, eight years to the day since the Chiron was revealed, Bugatti shows the world the first page of the newest chapter in its rich history.

    In June, the modern-day lineage of Bugatti – first established with the Veyron 16.4 – will welcome its latest evolution; a new automotive pinnacle with a V16 hybrid powertrain at its heart. Incomparable in every detail, it is a pure embodiment of Bugatti’s DNA, created not just for the present, or even the future – but “Pour l’éternité”.

    Thus, not just a new engine, in fact an engine for all eternity! That must be something really special then...

    At this point, Bugatti does not give any further information, however, as the new car will be a hybrid, the V16 will be probably of smaller capacity than it's "W16" big brother. W16 was of course never correct, it has always been a VVR16, but that aside. But, being of smaller capacity, it will probably be faster revving. Probably even as much of 900 HP from maybe 5 litres or so. Don't count on a cheaper automobile, though. We'll see what the car looks like, all technical details and what the price is in June, or probably before, as we known Bugatti, they will come with some teasers and snips of information.

    You can enjoy the sound of the new engine (lots of carbon, by the way) in the very short video below.


    February 25, 2024
    Car collector Arturo Keller passed away, aged 91

    Arturo Keller, who has passed away aged 91, was one of the greatest but least well known of all the leading car collectors worldwide. He was more to himself than other collectors like Peter Mullin (who passed away last year), and his collection was not publicly accessible. However, Arturo’s passion for cars was immense, and his collection at The Pyramids was seen only by a chosen few and documented in a book gifted only to his closest friends.

    He was best known for his love of pre-WWII Mercedes-Benz, although Ferraris, pre-war Alfa Romeos and many other marques also featured prominently. The list of Bugatti's he owned is rather long also, I looked them up and these are shown below.

    • Type 23 Torpedo, chassis 1864
    • Type 35B Grand Prix, chassis 4950
    • Type 37, chassis 37227
    • Type 37A Roadster Alfred Hänni, chassis 37379
    • Type 43 Grand Sport, chassis 43163
    • Type 49 Grand Sport by A.P. Compton & Co, chassis 49119
    • Type 55 Jean Bugatti Roadster Super Sport, chassis 55201
    • Type 57SC Atalante, chassis 57373
    • Type 57SC Corsica Roadster, chassis 57531
    • Type 57S Cabriolet by Gangloff, chassis 57533
    • Type 57 Berline by Figoni & Falaschi, chassis 57739
    • Type 57C Stelvio by Gangloff, chassis 57830

    I'm not sure if the above list is complete, but it does give a good impression! It must be the second largest collection of Type 57S Bugatti's, after the Schlumpf's.

    With wife Deborah, Arturo was a popular and prolific entrant to the Pebble Beach Concours of Elegance, winning Best of Show on three occasions. The most recent accolade was for their 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn-Kurier, at the 70th running of the concours, in August 2021. Their first win was in 1986, on the centenary of Mercedes, with a 1936 500K Special Roadster. In fact, they took six Mercedes to the event that year, and went home with six awards – in addition to the concours’ top prize, the cars earned a special award for Best Mercedes, two Firsts in Class, and two Second in Class awards.

    Although of Swiss origin, Arturo Keller was born in Mexico City, and later became a resident of the US. His success came with the production of automotive upholstery, which led him to San Francisco, supplying all of the main five automotive companies operating in North America: General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagen and Nissan. From the proceeds of the company, he was able to start building a car collection, with early acquisitions including a Talbot-Lago T150 SS Teardrop Coupé and a 1936 Hispano-Suiza – which was his first restoration and the first car he took to Pebble Beach.

    Arturo and Deborah came across their 650-acre estate in the 1980s, while driving one of their cars on a tour of the Sonoma region of northern California, and fell in love with it. It was here where they built up the collection, which is now housed in five huge buildings, each one dedicated to a different nation: the US, Great Britain, Germany, France and Italy. To keep the cars exercised, they built a road that winds around the property.

    Later, they moved into wine production, planting vines on the estate. Being on the edge of the Sonoma region, the land had never previously been used for wine production, but they succeeded: Keller Estate wines are now world renowned. The company is run by Arturo’s youngest daughter Ana, producing about 5000 cases a year of chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah and pinot gris.

    The use and conservation of collector cars was always Arturo’s true passion, though, and Pebble Beach was particularly special to him.

    The car world will miss Arturo Keller’s quiet contributions to the scene. We send our sincere condolences to his wife Deborah, daughter Ana and the rest of the Keller family.


    February 5, 2024
    Auction results

    Artcurial Retromobile Auction, Paris, February 2 - 3, 2024

    • "1925" Bugatti T35 Grand Prix by Gilles Fournier, Chassis n° 4467
      Estimate € 300,000 - 500,000, Sold at €405,280 (incl. premium)
    • 1929 Bugatti T40 Roadster Gangloff, Chassis n° 40488, Engine n° 387
      Estimate € 350,000 - 450,000, Sold at €405,280 (incl. premium)
    • 1930 Bugatti T40 Grand Sport, Chassis n° 681 / 40655
      Estimate € 160,000 - 240,000, Sold at €238,400 (incl. premium)
    • 1934 Bugatti T57 Galibier, Chassis n° 57140, Engine n° 35, Carrosserie Galibier n°18
      Estimate €250,000 - 350,000, Sold at €262,240 (incl. premium)
    • 1936 Bugatti T57 Stelvio Gangloff, Chassis n° 57395, Engine n° 275
      Estimate € 600,000 - 800,000: Not sold


    January 31, 2024
    Auction result

    RM Sotheby's Paris Auction, January 31, 2024

    • 1926 Bugatti Type 40, Chassis 40377, Engine 280, Estimate €200,000 - €250,000: Sold for €161,000
    • 2017 Bugatti Chiron 'La Mer Argentée', Chassis No. VF9SP3V30HM795026, Estimate: €2,750,000 - €3,500,000: Not sold. €2,950,000 Asking


    January 28, 2024
    Auction result

    RM Sotheby's Arizona auction USA, January 25, 2024

    • 1939 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet by Letourneur et Marchand
      Chassis No. 57587, Engine No. 458, Gearbox No. 46H, Estimate: US$900,000 - US$1,200,000: Not sold. US$975,000 Asking


    January 25, 2024
    Auction results

    Bonhams' the Scottsdale auction, January 25, 2024

    • 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Sunroof Coupe
      Chassis no. 57432, Engine no. 547, Estimate: US$1,500,000 - US$1,800,000: Sold for US$1,250,000 ($1,380,000 inc. premium)
    • 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ Coupe, VIN VF9SW3V32NM795009
      Estimate $5,000,000 - $5,500,000: Sold for US$5,175,000 inc. premium


    January 18, 2024
    De la Chapelle is working on a continuation

    One might remember the Bugatti replica's, or tribute cars one might call them, which have now long been out of production. Starting with a Type 55, powered by an in-line 6 from BMW back in the late 1970's. There came more versions of this car, also with more racy fenders, then calles the Type 55 Grand Prix.

    How nicely built these cars were, and useable with their modern mechanics, they were still recognizable as replica's, compared with the original Type 55 by Bugatti, the dimensions were just not correct, not good enough. That changed in 1992 with the introduction of the Type 57S Atalante (or serie 5, on the right), dimensions and shape of this car are so good, that one might even mistake it for the real deal. With one exception: The cast aluminium wheels, which suit the car rather well.

    After several years of relative silence from de la Chapelle, they now present the next model (serie 6), the Atalante V8, with a 6.7 litre Corvette engine, delivering 461 HP, and lots of torque. The car was also made 20 cm longer, and 10 cm wider. From the front and side the car looks as good as it used to, however from the rear it looks just too wide...

    Read this article on the car: in the French magazine L'Argus.

    I asked Xavier de la Chapelle for some comment on this car, and the current plans, and he tells us the following:
    The V8 is at the moment a one-off done on special order for a customer who had the Atalante L6 before.

    Both are very interesting to drive. The V8 is really impressive with almost 450 bhp! In comparison, the more powerful L6 versions were “only” 250 bhp

    . Some prefer the L6, some prefer the V8 which has been completely developed from a white sheet and is a bit bigger in size compare to the L6 and with more room inside.

    May be we will relaunch the L6 for some customers in the future.

    See for more info: delachapelle.com/.
    The price indication for this car is €500,000.


    January 18, 2024
    Mullin museum in Oxnard closes it's doors

    After the passing away of it's founder, Peter Mullin, on September 18 last year, it may not come as a total surprise that his museum will close it's doors. The last chance to visit will be on Saturday, February 10.

    Peter and Merle Mullin founded the Oxnard-based museum in 2010 to educate guests about 20th-century French automotive styling and design by showcasing the finest vehicles, sculptures and artifacts from the most-esteemed French master coachbuilders. The museum boasts nearly 47,000 square feet of exhibit space in an elegantly designed structure, which was previously owned by legendary newspaper publisher Otis Chandler. In addition to its sweeping gallery spaces, the museum includes a roof garden, theater, gift shop and archival storage.

    Peter was inspired by Art Deco design and was equally passionate about sharing it with the public. To continue that legacy, four of the collection’s most iconic vehicles have been donated to the Petersen Automotive Museum. The 1937 Talbot-Lago T150 CS “Teardrop,” the 1938 Hispano Suiza H6B Dubonnet Xenia, the 1939 Delahaye 165 and the 1938 Delahaye 145 will now become part of the Petersen Automotive Museum, which Peter helped transform into the globally respected automotive institution it is today as part of a major overhaul a decade ago.

    “Sharing these ‘rolling sculptures’ and beautiful art with others was Peter’s truest passion, and the museum helped bring that vision to life,” said Merle Mullin, director of the Mullin Automotive Museum. “We are deeply indebted to our staff, docents, volunteers, visitors and supporters who have dedicated their time and passion over the past 13 years. I hope past and first-time visitors will have a chance to say goodbye before we close.”

    The museum will be open on a limited basis through Saturday, Feb. 10. Please visit mullinautomotivemuseum.com for opening dates and hours.

    So far the official announcement. At the time there was no information about what will happen to the rather extensive Bugatti collection, with not just cars, but also parts, a You-you boat, Carlo Bugatti furniture and Rembrandt Bugatti sculpture.
    Now, a few days later, the first cars have been announced for auction.

    Please follow the Events section for more news about auctions.


    January 3, 2024
    Auction result

    Bonhams Auction, UK, December 15, 2023

    • 1927 Bugatti Type 40 Grand Sport style Tourer, Chassis 40444, Estimate £250,000 - £300,000: Sold (price not communicated)


    December 15, 2023
    The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport "57 one of one": Homage to an Icon

    On August 12, I wrote an article on what I doubted to be the last version of the Bugatti Chiron presented. That one was the Chiron Super Sport 'Golden Era' . And indeed it wasn't. There is now this '57 one of one', and there's also a couple of other "Bugatti Sur Mesure" recently presented. And there will probably be more to follow.
    Below is what Bugatti itself has to say about it.

    The Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic, a timeless Jean Bugatti masterpiece now nearly 90 years old, has long captured the imagination of aesthetes and automotive enthusiasts and is still regarded as the most valuable and exclusive automobile in the world. Many of its design features including the bolted (riveted, ed.)fin that runs the length of its body inspired Bugatti’s modern design DNA. But this car is not just a reference for Bugatti’s design team: one customer wanted to take things a step further, creating her very own tribute to the iconic Atlantic for her first Bugatti car, a Chiron Super Sport. This is how the '57 One of One' became reality.

    Twenty years ago, the customer – a lifelong car lover – first saw a Type 57 SC Atlantic. "I remember the day like it was yesterday. I visited the Mullin Automotive Museum at Oxnard, and there it was, one of only three cars that still remain, on a pedestal all by itself. I fell in love with it from the very second I saw it," she said.

    A wish for her very own Bugatti came true two decades later, when her husband – a Bugatti owner who shares the same passion and dedication to cars – surprised her for her 70th birthday with a personal invitation from Bugatti to come to Molsheim in France to configure her own Chiron Super Sport. With memories of that trip to Oxnard and a great deal of passion and excitement, she discovered the home of Bugatti for the first time. Jascha Straub, Lead Designer Sur Mesure at Bugatti, was on-hand to introduce her to the extraordinary history of the Château Saint Jean and the brand – the first part of a co-creation journey that would stretch over year.

    "During her visit, when we passed a scale model of the Type 57SC – the very first Atlantic and the exact one she had seen all those years ago – there was an immediate spark of recognition between us that this is the direction we should take. For years I have been idly dreaming of reinterpreting this icon, so I already had my own ideas of what I would do to honor the most elegant car ever designed. That meant that right away we could sit down and begin evolving the design, to realize her vision together," said Straub.

    The striking silver-tinted blue hue, gleaming under the lights of the Mullin Automotive Museum, was imprinted in the customer’s mind. For this vibrant homage there was only one color her and Jascha could envision. Yet, achieving this was no mean feat. Because each Sur Mesure project is meticulous in its process, immersed in even the tiniest details, and because referencing one of the greatest pieces of automotive design ever conceived required precision and humility, Jascha Straub travelled to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao where the original car was the central art piece in a temporary exhibition called "Motion, Autos, Art, Architecture". "That original car had such a deep effect on our customer that we wanted to get the exact same color for her Chiron Super Sport. What we really wanted to achieve is that, every time she sees her car, she feels the same emotion that she felt on that day 20 years ago, when her admiration for the Type 57 SC Atlantic began. I flew to Bilbao, with a color swatch that we had created, to observe the paintwork under different light conditions. It needed to be completely authentic to the original."

    On the Type 57 SC Atlantic, the large horseshoe Bugatti grille sits proudly upright, seemingly suspended between the shapely wheel arches. This design aspect was an important reference point. For the Chiron Super Sport '57 One of One', the Sur Mesure team worked hand-in-hand with engineers at Bugatti to create a faithful homage to the original that would also remain true to the Bugatti 'Form Follows Performance' design philosophy and the car's engineering requirements. Each inlet, line and vent of the Chiron Super Sport is carefully considered to meet the extreme cooling and aerodynamic needs of a 440km/h hyper sports car. The unique resulting design – a new grille with polished vertical lines and a thicker center spine – is a beautiful modern interpretation yet true to the iconic Type 57 SC Atlantic.

    The design is paired with five-spoke Super Sport wheels – combining polished chrome and the same blue as the original – and vibrant chrome accents. The underside of the rear wing features a hand-drawn silhouette of the Atlantic, finished with '57' and 'One of One' lettering in a subtle nod to the craftsmanship and design that inspired this unique work of automotive art.

    "The customer's enthusiasm and active engagement throughout the whole design process were a constant source of inspiration," continued Straub. "Her perspective, rooted in a profound respect for Bugatti’s heritage, and driven by a desire to craft an authentic homage, guided us in creating a vehicle that stands at the intersection of history and innovative engineering."

    Inside, the customer selected 'Gaucho' leather – deciding on a timeless color to further accentuate the exterior design. Notable highlights include the Atlantic's silhouette hand-stitched in 'Lightning Blue' on the door panels and a center console with a custom inlay that proclaims '57 One of One'. With an appreciation for the broader history and artistic vision of the Bugatti family the iconic 'Dancing Elephant' sculpture of Rembrandt Bugatti is delicately embroidered on the headrests, signifying her passion for animals. The signatures of Jean Bugatti, the genius who was the creative force behind the admired Type 57 SC Atlantic, and Rembrandt are applied to the door sills.

    Hendrik Malinowski, Managing Director at Bugatti Automobiles, said: "When crafting a bespoke car for our customers, we will always look to pay tribute to our rich heritage. For a customer to embrace our lineage in such a way, and lead in the inclusion of such design elements, it is a proud moment. A creation like the '57 One Of One' is the perfect match for our Sur Mesure offer, bringing a passionate customer with bold ideas together with our endlessly creative and talented design and engineering teams. The result is a breath-taking new chapter in the legend of the Type 57 SC Atlantic; authentic, beautiful and formed in the spirit of Jean Bugatti’s original. The Type 57 SC Atlantic will always be an icon and this latest homage can proudly sit alongside it on the concours lawns of the future."

    Eventually, the '57 One Of One' will achieve the same iconic status as its predecessor (Well, not really I think. Ed.), earning a rightful place at the Concours d’Élegance. But for now, the customer is enjoying her Bugatti driving experience, having explored the scenic routes of the American West behind the wheel of her exceptional Bugatti on the US Grand Tour.


    December 14, 2023
    Obituary: Michel Dovaz

    December 8, 2023 Michel Dovaz died in his hometown Paris, aged 95. He was born in Geneva on August 14, 1928.

    Michel was quite famous as a wine critic, and author of various books about wine, see: This link In French.
    However, the classic car enthusiast, and especially the Bugattiste knows him from the book "Sleeping Beauties" or "Schlafende Schoenheiten" in the original German title from 1986 by Herman Hesselman. In this book, Mr. Dovaz is depicted as an eccentric old man, who lets all these beuatiful cars (58 of them of which many Bugatti's, Lancia's and even a Ferrari) rot away in barns and even in the open air. The photographs of the Bugatti's and other cars, covered in dust, became famous in their own right, and even posters of these "sleeping beauties" were sold.

    The reality was far different, as a young man, Michel bought various old cars, many of them Bugatti's, and used them in his home town Paris. As a young student, he did not have money to maintain them all, but many were parked in the streets, and in those early post-war years, cars had to be illuminated at night. Thus he went each night on his bicycle, to his different cars which were parked in different parts in Paris.

    And, he was no eccentric at all, at the time that Hesselman wrote the book, he was a very well-known and renowned wine critic. However, his collection had grown, and had been brought to the countryside by then. Mostly unrestored, but not in a bad condition at all. In fact, almost all of his cars were restored after Dovaz sold them. If it had not been for him, most of these significant cars would have been scrapped.

    I came to know Michel at the presentation of the book "Collection Dovaz, the fate of the sleeping beauties" by Ard op de Weegh, Kay Hottendorff and Arnoud op de Weegh, in 2008. He was a very gentle and intelligent man, and I continued to communicate with him after that. This book showed the truth about the Dovaz collection, and also listed all cars, including their current wehereabouts, and how they look in their restored condition.

    Thus, thank you Michel for your patience in preserving all these precious automobiles, and patience in dealing with all injustices from the press later.

    At the top of the page; Michel Dovaz with one of the cars that had been in his collection, at the presentation of his book in 2008, photo Herman Brouwer.


    One of the photographs from the original "sleeping Beauties" book


    December 10, 2023
    Auctions results

    Hutchinson Scott Automobile Auction, Skipton, UK, December 8, 2023

    • 1927 Bugatti T44, Chassis 44305, Engine 17, Estimate £180,000 - £220,000: Sold for £322,000

    RM Sotheby's New York Auction, December 8, 2023

    • 1993 Bugatti EB110 Super Sport Prototype, Chassis No. ZA9BB02E0PCD39006, Estimate $3,000,000 - $3,400,000: Not Sold
    • 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4, Chassis No. VF9SA15BX6M795013, Estimate $1,500,000 - $1,750,000: Sold for $1,490,000, inc. premium


    December 1, 2023
    Auction result

    Bonhams' Fine Clocks Auction, November 29, 2023

    • Breguet No. 759. A very fine silver hump-backed carriage clock, Estimate £100,000 - £200,000: Sold for £216,300 inc. premium


    November 25, 2023
    Auction results

    Piasa Auction, Le sens d'un choix esthétique, November 20, 2023

    • Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916), Femme nue assise se coiffant, 1906, Estimate €100,000 - €150,000: Sold for €266,964 inc. premium
    • Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916), Lionne dévorant, circa 1904, Estimate €200,000 - €300,000: Sold for €232,738 inc. premium


    November 25, 2023
    New addition to the Autovision museum

    In September, the museum bought a (replication) body of the famous T57S Corsica, which was originally designed by Eric Giles for his brother Godfrey and made by Corsica of England. Godfrey had a habit of giving all his cars names, this one was christened "la petite Sezanne". This body was on (shortened) chassis 57577, which apparently now will be fitted with a replica Atlantic body.

    In the meantime it is a part of the bugatti exhibition at the Autovision museum in Altlussheim. The car is only partially built up / restored and not yet ready for driving.

    The Museum in Altlussheim focuses on the Jean-Bugatti era only, and has some special original T57 Bugattis, and a range of (replica) Bugatti Type 57S and Type 59 cars, showing the original designs by Jean Bugatti together with draughtsman Joseph Walter.

    Cars that are rarely seen, or simply do not exist anymore, like the T57G Le Mans, T57S Atlantic, the T57S Roadster Jean and the T57S Gangloff (made after an original drawing, which was never realised in the 1930's). This Corsica T57S is a nice addition to show these most elegant cars of the 2nd half of the 1930's.

    Info on the museum and the Bugatti's on show.


    November 19, 2023
    An enthusiast led, Type 72 cycle engine project is nearing completion.

    Only 5 engines are currently planned, with 4 available for purchase.

    These engines will not be completely finished assemblies, rather they will consist of all the major machined castings, to include the carburetor, cylinder barrel, a rebuildable magneto core, and a basic fastener set.

    Buyers would have to finish internal components themselves, or acquire parts needed to finish over time.

    It could also make a nice display, if left unfinished.

    The cost for one of these casting sets (incomplete engine) is expected to be US$18,000, with the sets projected to be available late Spring of 2024.

    If interested, contact Lance Baumberger at 72cycleengine@gmail.com


    November 16, 2023
    Obituary: René Strub

    René Strub was a designer with Bugatti, he started working for Bugatti in 1950. He was involved in the automobile projects afterwards, especially the development of the T251 Grand Prix racer.

    Well in his nineties, René was involved with retrieving the history of the post-war Bugatti factory, and automobile development there. In 2017 he was at a conference for automotive historians in Mulhouse, where he was invited by John Barton. At that time, I also met him. Above and right photographs of René with the Colombo designed "Turbo-frein" brake for the T251. Unfortunately, the brake proved unsuccessful (overheated), and was replaced with drum brakes for the race in 1956.

    René Strub died during the first week of October aged 97.

    Richard Bernhart and Arsène Munch met him earlier this year and recorded a 1 hour video with René telling them his Bugatti memories in Alsatian dialect. These memories have been summarized below, thanks to Richard Bernhart.

    Memories of Mr. René Strub, designer at Bugatti in the 1950s

    My first job in 1950 at Bugatti was to design a steering lever. It is a lever which is mounted on the spindle of the right front wheel and which controls the steering. This under the direction of Mr. Nuss my boss, a very capable man, a veteran who still worked with Ettore Bugatti, he was very friendly but disappeared later.

    Comment: Adolphe Nuss was responsible for the designs of the Type 45/47 sixteen-cylinder engine, then he worked with Ettore on the railcar in 1931-32. Disappointed by the boss's lack of consideration, he left him in 1937 to return briefly in 1950, that's where René Strub knew him. Finally he obtained a position at the University of Strasbourg.

    I also designed a new intake pipe for a new carburetor fitted to the 3.3 liter Type 57 engine with two overhead camshafts, an engine also fitted to the Type 101, which was not more than an improvement of the Type 57 with a more modern body.
    This carburetor was mounted very low and it happened that it sucked in water at the same time as the gasoline and air when the car drove through a puddle, which obviously caused the engine to misfire or even stop.
    It was a really fascinating job for me, as I loved it and like to remind myself of it. You should know that the old carburetor was mounted very low below, at the level of the crankcase to allow the assembly of a Roots compressor (Type 57 C) for competitions or for the 24 hours of Le Mans won in 1937 and 1939. To do this, I met several times with the modelers who were preparing the wooden model for the founders of the new intake pipe, work carried out at the factory.

    I also worked on the brakes to improve them by increasing the diameter of the drums.
    It must be said that the 57 was a great success which was built in numerous examples which were very successful despite its high price and which allowed a wide range of bodywork.
    Subsequently, I also participated in replacing the drive of the camshafts, driven by a cascade of gears, with a quieter chain drive. I followed the tests and I had to add a system to prevent the chain from beating. I don't know if the new system has been adapted to the Type 101!

    Comment: The new camshaft drive was ultimately not adopted on the Type 101.

    After the Geneva Motor Show in 1957, chassis 101503 was sold to the owner of the Rentz cheese factory (Ostheim) which manufactured processed cheeses, he was an unpleasant man, a big mouth... Too bad for the good cheeses that he transformed into diamonds.
    As for the name Wurmser, he was an exceptional young mechanic who accompanied the racing cars on the circuits and who set up a garage in Molsheim, on the road which passes in front of the gate of the blacksmiths in the direction of the sub-prefecture with the Bugatti emblem which has still survived, I saw it later. All this reminds me of the good time I spent at Bugatti and which still enchants me. Moreover, all those who worked at Bugatti were contaminated by the Bugatti virus and this for life.

    Mr. Rentz's 57 101, Ed. soon returned to the factory, because a not very knowledgeable mechanic had tightened the fan drive belt a little, but he had done it very badly. The pulley was mounted on its axis held by a part which could move but which was blocked by 2 parts equipped with 3 screws each which had to be loosened to be able to tighten the belt. To unlock these square-headed Bugatti screws you needed a special Bugatti key which he did not have. As a result, the square heads of these screws were completely damaged and could no longer perform their function. He may have tried it with the wrong wrench.

    A 57 chassis left for Paris, the last one, for the second husband of Madame Bugatti (Ettore's second wife) who was the manufacturer of OCB cigarette paper and who had it bodied in Paris. I had the pleasure of seeing her later, a great meeting.

    Chassis 101500 remained at the factory and was bodied on site with the help of the Gangloff coachbuilders in Colmar. It was painted a gray-green, an undercoat. It was often used by the director for his travels. The color was rather sad and I only saw it again later in white and found it not to be a success.
    Moreover, most of the Type 101s were bodied by Gangloff of Colmar. Great work!

    In 1953 an American, Mr Oliver, owned a 57S Atlantic, built in only three examples, with a red body made of magnesium alloy (Elektron) and riveted. The car is shipped from the USA in a double-walled “marine” crate with tarred cardboard between the two layers. The car is fixed by the hubs on wedges and the wheels on the inner wall. The car is impeccable, it involves carrying out a general overhaul of the engine as well as the fitting of a Roots compressor. The car is equipped with a Cotal electromagnetic gearbox and hydraulic brakes. This work completed, the car goes to Italy to the bodybuilder Boano to be modernized. Enlarged quarter windows and retouched doors, Bugatti blue paint with a tiny blue, white and red flag on the side. The car returns to Molsheim as does the American to collect his car and tour the Grand Prix in Europe. After that he brings the car back to Molsheim for a final check, then repatriates it by boat to the USA in its crate. Mr. Oliver was a skinny, wizened guy with a big hat and very nervous. When he drove his hands and feet shook (facts reported by the mechanics who took care of the car).

    The 8-cylinder Type 57:

    • A five-franc coin placed on its edge on the engine idling did not fall.
    • Just turning the ignition key was enough to start the engine.

    Comment:

    • Lucien Wurmser used a cigarette placed vertically on the top of the engine to demonstrate this.
    • All you had to do was turn the ignition key in the middle of the dashboard to turn on the ignition and then press it to activate turn on the starter and wake up the 8 cylinders (Jaeger switch)..

    Jean Bugatti sometimes delivered unbodied cars to Paris, just equipped with a wooden bench, and this in 3 hours 47 minutes! The mechanic got off and took the train home.

    An American soldier with a very nice Type 57 Stelvio 2-seater convertible brings his car to have the engine completely rebuilt for a million francs (old francs), the car stays for about a year while he collects the money. Finally he searches for his car and returns a week later with the car folded in half after encountering a concrete pillar. The bodywork is in a sad state and even the chassis was deformed.

    I also remember an old missionary stationed in black Africa who came to have his old Bugatti Type 30 with a torpedo body and a three-liter engine serviced. It was the best car in the world, why don’t we make them anymore…

    A Dutch couple with a Type 43 from 1930 with glasses and two windbreakers, the exhaust, a real chrome stovepipe. A dashboard with a multitude of dials, the majority of which were of no use because they were not connected. It made a lot of noise, but a nice noise and had a 24 Hours of Le Mans license plate on it. The woman shows up at the workshop every day (a little weird). This is one of the most beautiful Bugattis encountered in our workshops.

    The 57 of the Belgian king Leopold, he also has a type 59 sport from 1934, goes through the workshop once a year for servicing. The driver is at the hotel for a week or more and comes by daily to monitor the progress of the work.

    During and after the war it was difficult to find spare parts. American and English Bugatti owners fitted Ford V8 engines to be able to drive. At Bugatti we completely remade foundry models after the war as soon as the number of orders for parts justified the manufacture of a series, the price was accordingly!

    René Strub (96 years old)
    Saverne, August 2022
    Comments collected by R. Bernhart

    Text in French


    November 9, 2023
    The Moral winner of Le Mans 1939

    Okay, you will think: Jaap, now you are going absolutely too far! A Delage on BugattiPage!

    But, I have an absolutely good reason for that (more than the Bugattis in the background of the pictures), sometimes, you read pieces of Bugatti history somewhere else. At least, I never knew this, which comes from the auction description of the Delage shown above:

    The Delage #51821, flanked for the occasion by the number 21, and attributed to the duo Louis Gérard – Georges Monneret, will race the 1939 Le Mans 24 hours in the lead for almost 20 hours, before being delayed in the pits for a capricious valve spring.

    The Bugatti Type 57 Tank of Jean-Pierre Wimille and Pierre Veyron take the opportunity to take victory and enter the annals.

    However, Delage could have lodged a protest and won, since the Bugatti, which was overheating, had had its lower fairing dismantled in the last hours of the race, which the regulations strictly prohibited.

    Now, had only Lewis Hamilton raced with Delage... The story would have been different.

    I'm not sure if any of my readers ever heard about this? If not, here's now a small addition to Bugatti history. And of course in racing (and also in other fields, like taxes) Bugatti was known to "bend the rules" a little bit to his own advantage. If any protesting by Delage would have helped, we will never know. And Bugatti, though (according to the Delageist at least) may not be the Moral winner of Le Mans 1939, Bugatti continues to be the official winner.

    Some more info on the Delage:
    1939 - Delage D6 3 Litres Le Mans
    Chassis no 51821
    Sacred monster of the history of motor racing and French sporting heritage
    History known and documented since day one, in the same family since 1979
    Historical file and dedicated literature rarely seen on a pre-war racing automobile

    Go to the auction (November 26)


    November 9, 2023
    Bugatti football (or soccer) shoes....

    The modern Bugatti seems to do everything to build (or destroy?) their brand, and to make money, I guess. And, despite the picture above looking like some automobile shapes, they are in fact just a couple of shoes....

    In September 2021 I wrote about what was then the latest thing, a "Bugatti" razor made by Gilette. At that time I asked the question:

    How far can you go as an automobile manufacturer to get some additional cash? And maybe a bit of publicity?

    Bugatti markets a whole lot of stuff; clothing, furniture, impressive yachts, perfumes, HiFi speakers and the Bugatti Billiard (pool table actually)...

    The Bugatti press release about these shoes, made by Adidas:

    Bugatti and adidas have come together to create a stunning, limited edition football boot: the adidas X Crazyfast Bugatti. Produced in a limited run of just 99 pairs, the new boots are engineered for speed and lightness, finished with a number of bespoke Bugatti design flourishes.

    Built around the X Crazyfast laced boot, the exclusive new collection draws upon the characteristics that have come to define Bugatti; not only engineered for speed but created with a ‘Form Follows Performance’ design philosophy for the ultimate in ability. And, as with every Bugatti, they will remain rare and sought after by devoted collectors for years to come.

    Where the heart of the Chiron is its incomparable W16 engine, the focal point of the X Crazyfast boot is adidas’s innovative Speedframe sole plate technology, creating the lightest possible structure while also providing a rigid plate for rapid acceleration. The Aerocage innovation – an engineered lining designed to provide ideal support and stability by hugging the mid-foot, and Aeropacity Speedskin – a single layer breathable monomesh – help to provide both speed and stability. The carbon fiber inlay in the boot’s tooling replicates the carbon fiber used on the car.

    The structure of X Crazyfast’s semi-transparent mono-mesh material on the mid-foot cage has been adapted from the original design to incorporate a recognizable flash of Bugatti Blue. Inspired by the color of early Bugatti Grand Prix cars, it’s an instantaneous identifier for any devotee of the brand, transcending a century of motorsport success and incomparable performance.

    Adorned on the side of the boot are two phrases that have shaped the values of both companies “Impossible is Nothing” for adidas’ relentless pursuit of performance and “Create the Incomparable” to represent the Bugatti commitment to produce hyper sports cars that consistently set the benchmark. The timeless insignia of Ettore Bugatti repeats across the rear three-quarter of the boot in a subtle nod to the ingenious founder, whose vision continues to inspire the world’s greatest hyper sports cars even today.

    The X Crazyfast Bugatti collection boots come delivered in a unique box featuring an exterior design inspired by weaves of carbon fiber – the lightweight, extremely strong material that Bugatti hyper sports cars are mostly constructed from.

    To ensure that adidas and Bugatti enthusiasts globally have equal opportunity to acquire one of the 99 pairs of the collection, the boots will be auctioned through the adidas Collect Web 3 platform. The auction will run from 8th-11th November and afterwards all winners receive an exclusive digital shoebox which can be redeemed, from November 13th onwards, via adidas Collect for the complementary physical pair and digital twin. Although conducted using cryptocurrency, users have a direct on-ramp from traditional currency in the auction using MoonPay.


    October 28, 2023
    Carlo Bugatti Knife rests

    As you know, Ettore Bugatti came from a very artistic family. Occasionally, I present some work by his father Carlo and brother Rembrandt on these pages. (And even less often by his daughter Lidia)

    In the images a Pair of knife rests depicting some kind of imaginative insects, from approximately 1907 (no further info of provenance).
    These are made of precious metal, presumably silver, and measure 3 x 10 x 3.5 cm

    If you're interested, the estimate is £3,000 - 5,000
    Update, 9-11-2023 SOLD FOR £4,064

    Go to the auction (October 31)


    October 17, 2023
    Bugatti Rimac research, development and innovation center in Italy

    PRESS October 13
    Croatian electric hypercar maker and technology solutions provider to global automakers, Rimac Group, said its Bugatti Rimac hypercar joint venture is expanding its operations across Europe with the establishment of a research, development and innovation center in Italy.

    The Bugatti Rimac Italy office opened earlier this month in Bologna, with Filippo D'Adamo and Roberto Rotundo leading operations as general managers, the Rimac Group said in a press release on Thursday.

    The team will work on future luxury hypercars from the Bugatti and Rimac brands, as well as more mainstream products, with individual units focusing on specialist areas such as electric, hybrid and alternative fuel powertrains; advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and improved use of composites; integrated vehicle controls and digital twins; and chassis engineering. Traditional areas of automotive development, such as aerodynamics and NVH, will also be covered, alongside ongoing research into new fuels, concepts and architectures.

    “Nearly a year after the company opened a new design and engineering center in Berlin, Germany, it is set to further expand its presence in another of the continent's renowned locations for its expertise automobile and its technical excellence, with the creation of the new Bugatti Rimac Italy. factory in Bologna,” said the Rimac group.

    In addition to positioning Bugatti Rimac close to valuable partners and suppliers, enabling it to provide fast and responsive support when needed, the new center will act as a satellite for the company's headquarters in Zagreb, with capacity future of up to 50 employees working in tandem with the Croatia team.

    The Rimac Group, led by CEO Mate Rimac, is the majority shareholder of Bugatti Rimac and the sole shareholder of Rimac Technology. The group is based in the suburbs of Zagreb, with locations across Europe, and currently employs more than 2,000 people.


    October 8, 2023
    Auction results

    Bonhams' The Zoute Sale, Belgium, October 8, 2023

    • 1927 Bugatti Type 40 'Grand Sport' Roadster, Chassis no. 40347, Engine no. 406, Estimate €350,000 - €450,000: Sold for €402,500 inc. premium
    • 1929 Bugatti Type 37 Grand Prix, Chassis no. 37383, Engine no. 286, Estimate €1,000,000 - €1,400,000: Sold for €1,150,000 inc. premium
    • 1994 Bugatti EB110GT Coupé, Chassis no. ZA9AB01SORCD39071, Estimate €800,000 - €1,200,000: Sold for €1,150,000 inc. premium
    • 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4, Chassis no. VF9SA15B96M795021, Estimate: €950,000 - €1,250,000: Sold for €1,016,400 inc. premium

    September 23, 2023
    Obituary: Peter W. Mullin

    Peter Mullin, an American businessman, passionate car collector and renowned philanthropist passed away on Monday, September 18. Peter (born January 14, 1941) was the founder of Mullin Consulting and the founder and director of the Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard, Calif. Peter was also a founding board member and former board chair at the Petersen Automotive Museum. The following is a tribute written by his wife Merle Mullin.

    On Monday, September 18, at 6:25 PM, the thunderous roar of an 8-cylinder racing engine shook the entire, beautiful coastline of Big Sur, California, as Peter Mullin soared, full throttle, in his beloved 1925 Bugatti Type 35C, hoping not to be late to his first Executive Board dinner in Heaven.

    His family, his friends and the entire tapestry of Los Angeles have lost a special friend and mentor. He dreamed big, even as a young boy, growing up in Alhambra, California. “You can accomplish anything. If you can dream it, you can execute it.” And he delivered on those dreams, with gusto and a unique fervor.

    Read more of Merle's tribute here


    In front of the replica 100P: Peter Mullin (2nd from left), Scotty Wilson (left) and members of Scotty's team John Lawson and Simon Birney.
    I myself met Mr. Mullin first at Retromobile 2014, where another Bugattiste advised me to offer Peter a copy of my Bugatti 100P airplane book, and so I did. We had a rather short chat, however at that occasion Peter invited me to come to the opening of the "Art of Bugatti" exhibition in his Oxnard museum in California, only a few weeks later. After much thinking finally I decided to go (less than a week before), contacted the museum secretary and made the arrangements to go.

    The exhibition was brilliant, the best overall Bugatti exhibition ever, with of course many items by Carlo, Rembrandt, Ettore and Jean, but also Lidia Bugatti had a special role, with various of her artwork on show.

    Special place in the exhibition was for Scotty's replica 100P airplane, which at that time was visually 100% ready. The airplane would have been part of Mullin's permanent exhibition (probably in the museum he was planning in England) but unfortunately it was destroyed in the fatal crash, killing the pilot and builder Scotty Wilson.

    We will all remember Peter Mullin as an avid collector and Bugatti enthusiast (Bugatti's were just part of his love of 30's French exotic automobiles), surely he will drive many of his beloved cars, most famous of all the T57SC Atlantic, on the open, winding roads in Heaven. We wish Merle Mullin and all of his family strength to cope with this loss.

    "Rolling Sculpture" - a tribute to Peter Mullin and his passion for the automobile


    September 20, 2023
    Nik Levecque wins top prizes!

    Of course, when some millionaire (billionaire) wins a top prize at Pebble Beach or Villa d'Este, that is worth mentioning in the press. However, there is another, more modest way to win a concours, and my friend Nik Levecque did just that at the IPMS Belgium National Convention on September 17, 2023. Unlike the billionaires mentioned above, Nik built these cars with his own hands, and won not just one, but two prizes! The winners were:

    • Bugatti T13 1911 ‘8 soupapes’ which won:
      • Gold in it's category (scratch-built civilian vehicles)
      • Best of Show (Best miniature of the entire concours)

    • Bugatti T251 1956 ‘Gp de Reims’ which won:
      • Gold in it's category (straight-from-the-box civilian vehicles)
      • Presidents’ Award (Best miniature straight-from-the-box of the entire concours).

    The T13 in 1/20 scale was completely scratch-built in 660 hours and contains 451 parts from plastic, aluminium, brass, leather and wood.

    The T251 was built from a Fernando Pinto kit in 1/24 scale, and a little bit improved with leather and metal. Nik is rightful proud of his achievement! Take a look at the images below, and see the level of detail and precision which Nik managed to bring into these miniatures. Congratulations Nik!


    September 14, 2023
    Auction results

    Bonhams' Goodwoord Revival Motor cars & Automobilia Auction, September 9, 2023

    • "1929" Bugatti Type 35B Grand Prix Two-seater, Chassis no. BC138 Engine no. 3558, Estimate: £320,000 - £380,000, Sold for: £345,000 inc. premium
    • 1937 Bugatti Type 57 Roadster "Barrie Price", Chassis no. 57495, Engine no. 57495/370, Estimate: £280,000 - £340,000: Not sold


    September 8, 2023
    Today: Raymond Mays Centenary

    Today is an important day for the history of British Bugatti Brescias.

    On September 8th 1923 Raymond Mays achieved his ambition and managed to break the hill record at Shelsley Walsh with his Brescia ‘Cordon Rouge’.

    To mark the occasion we were able to get a few cars to Shelsley and raise a glass to the great man!

    Many thanks to our friends at the Midland Automobile Club for allowing us access to Shelsley Walsh.

    From Kraig Mycock


    September 4, 2023
    Auction results

    Bonhams' The Beaulieu Motor cars & Automobilia Auction, September 2, 2023

    • Aluminium Bodyshell in the style of a Bugatti T57 Corsica, Estimate: £25,000 - £35,000: Sold for £26,450 inc. premium


    August 27, 2023
    Auctions results

    Broad Arrow auction "Radius", Monterey Jet Center, USA, August 17-18, 2023

    • 1911 Peugeot Type BP1 Bebe, Engine No. 11356, Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000: Sold for $5,600
    • 1937 Bugatti Type 57C Atalante, Chassis No. 57557, Estimate: $1,750,000 - $2,250,000: Sold for $1,325,000

    RM / Sotheby's Monterey auction Monterey, USA, August 17-19, 2023

    • 1928 Bugatti Type 37A Grand Prix, Chassis No. 37317, Estimate $600,000 - $800,000: Sold for $ 747,500 incl. premium
    • 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio, Chassis No. 57190, Estimate: $400,000 - $500,000: Sold for $ 467,000 incl. premium
    • 1937 Bugatti Type 57SC Tourer by Corsica, Chassis No. 57512, Estimate $5,00,000 - $7,000,000: Sold for $ 5,395,000 incl. premium
    • 1938 Bugatti Type 57 Roadster in the style of Gangloff, Chassis No. 57661, Estimate: $500,000 - $650,000: Sold for $ 841,000 incl. premium

    Gooding & Company Pebble Beach auctions, USA, August 18-19, 2023

    • 1932 Bugatti Type 49 Roadster, Chassis No. 49534, Estimate $900,000 - $1,200,000: Sold for $ 1,325,000 incl. premium
    • 1933 Bugatti Type 55 Roadster, Chassis No. 55231, Estimate $8,000,000 - $10,000,000: Not Sold
    • 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio, Chassis No. 57406, Estimate $750,000 - $950,000: Not Sold
    • 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux, Chassis No. 57422, Estimate $500,000 - $700,000: Not Sold
    • 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4, Chassis no. VF9SA15B26M795023, Estimate: $1,000,000 - $1,300,000: Sold for $ 1,545,000 incl. premium
    • 2023 Bugatti Baby II, Estimate $100,000 - $120,000: Sold for $ 262,500 incl. premium


    August 19, 2023
    Allan Rippon new chairman of Bugatti Trust

    After two decades Hugh Conway, Chairman of The Bugatti Trust Museum and Study Centre, has decided to step down, although he has agreed to remain as a trustee of the organisation founded by his father in 1987.

    The popular choice by staff members and other trustees was to invite trustee Allan Rippon to become Chairman of the charitable trust that was created “for the advancement of education through the study of the works of Ettore Bugatti”.

    Thanking Hugh for his dedicated and distinguished service new Chairman Allan Rippon said: “With the benefit of his leadership the Trust, amongst other things, has retained a committed and talented team of permanent staff, volunteers and Trustees
    “It has provided through its extensive and ever-expanding historic archive, enormous assistance to those researching Ettore Bugatti and his many creations and ideas.

    “It has received awards for the quality of its museum displays and has increasingly been enabled to pursue its educational objectives.
    “Hugh's father who founded the Trust would be very proud of what our retiring Chairman has achieved.
    “I look forward to working with everyone involved with the Trust to meet the undoubted challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of us.”

    Trust Members and Friends will have a number of opportunities to meet Allan Rippon over the coming months, including at a Bugatti Trust celebration day for members on October 14.


    The photo above was taken during the recent Vintage Sports-Car Club weekend at Prescott with from left to right: Trustee and Past Chairman Hugh Conway, Trustee Richard Day, Dan Cross from McLaren Applied who had just finished a STEM talk for us, Chairman Allan Rippon and Trustee John Venables-Llewelyn.

    The Trust was started after a small fraternity of Bugatti enthusiasts gathered in October 1987, led by the late Hugh Graham Conway, and Bugatti Molsheim Limited, now known as The Bugatti Trust, was born. Hugh was acknowledged as the leading Bugatti authority of his time. A distinguished design engineer, he is well remembered for his work in the aeronautical industry and his contributions to the Design Council. The Trust was conceived as a repository for Hugh’s extensive historical collection of photographs, correspondence and Bugatti factory drawings and documents. The sale of one of Hugh Conway’s Bugattis funded construction of the Prescott Visitor Centre in which the collection is now housed. Prescott is also the home of the Bugatti Owners’ Club and location of the Speed Hill Climb. Despite the shared location, the Trust operates as a completely separate entity to the Club.

    The Centre was officially opened by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh on 16th March 1990, a plaque next to the entrance commemorating the event.
    Based at Prescott Hill, Gotherington near Cheltenham, The Bugatti Trust is normally open Monday to Friday between 10 am and 4 pm (please telephone 01242 677 201 before visiting). The last admission to the museum is at 3.30pm. Details at www.bugatti-trust.co.uk/


    August 15, 2023
    Rare Carlo Bugatti Porcelain object

    We have seen many different objects designed and/or made by Carlo Bugatti; his furniture of course is well known, but there is much more, like the silverware, boxes, a Jukebox, "Crazy Frog" horns and more.

    Now recently I saw something new, in a material unknown to me to date; porcelain.

    It seems to be signed Carlo Bugatti on the underside, though there's no photograph of that. Description from the auction:

    "Rare, if not unique, streaked porcelain hookah in shades of white and bluish black, made by Carlo Bugatti.
    Marked on the bottom Depose 'Carlo Bugatti"

    For those who do not know, a Hookah is also known as a "Waterpipe" or in Italian: Narghilla

    To the object


    Bugatti news, former issues


    Bugatti events

    February 29 - March 1, 2024 Gooding & Company Amelia Island Auctions USA

    • 1925 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix, Chassis 4634
      From the Peter Mullin collection
    • 1931 Bugatti Type 49 Coachwork by Gangloff, Chassis 49377, Engine 305
      From the Peter Mullin collection

    • 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Stelvio, Coachwork by Gangloff Chassis 57606/57699, Engine 499
    • 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Atalante
      Chassis no. 57767 Engine no. 62C

    More info


    March 1, 2024 Broad Arrow Auctions The Amelia Auction 2024 USA

    • 1929 Bugatti Type 46 Cabriolet, Chassis No. 46524, Estimate: $850,000 - $1,200,000

    Having proven his cars on both the road and track, by the end of the 1920s Ettore Bugatti would introduce a new road car to fill the gap between his Type 44 and gargantuan Type 41 Royale. Introduced in 1929, the new Bugatti Type 46 would feature a 5.4-liter single overhead-camshaft straight-eight engine that slotted perfectly within the Bugatti lineup of fast and exciting touring cars. Attracting the attention of some of the finest coachbuilders of the era, bodies would vary based on customer preference from formal and stately Saloons to more sporting open-top Cabriolet models. Enticing many buyers, Bugatti would sell around 462 examples of the Type 46 to those who were drawn to the latest creation from one of the world's most highly revered automakers.

    Benefitting greatly from its proximity to the Type 41 Royale, the Type 46 was able to share many developments with its stablemate resulting in the affectionate nickname of “La Petite Royale.” Beginning with the straight-eight engine, effectively a short-stroke version of the 12.75-liter engine found in the Royale, the Type 46 would also utilize axles, brakes, and a rear-mounted transmission found in the Type 41 Royale, of which only six models were produced. Gathering the attention of many, period magazine reviews from The Motor would describe the Type 46 as "A really solidly built, beautifully sprung, comfortable saloon car with exceptionally rapid acceleration through its speed range… It combines the luxury of a large limousine, the flexibility and top gear performance of a thoroughbred town carriage with the perfect road holding, the speed and acceleration of the best type of sports model."

    Ordered new by Swiss Bugatti agent Bucar of Zurich, this 1929 Bugatti Type 46 Cabriolet, notably equipped with stunning alloy wheels and four-seat Gangloff Touriste cabriolet coachwork, is believed to have been sold new to Hans Lindt of Stockholm, Sweden. Once ready for delivery, Barrie Price's book Bugatti Type 46 & 50 would note that Mr. Lindt would collect his new Type 46 and soon begin his 1,500 kilometer journey back home to Stockholm in his new Bugatti. Following ownership by Mr. Lindt, chassis number 46524 was purchased by fashion boutique owner and well-known Bugatti connoisseur René Chatard.

    Under ownership with Chatard around the mid-1930s, the body was likely separated from the chassis and fitted with blackout lights and rudimentary seats, a measure likely performed to disguise the car from occupying forces during World War II. Records also indicate that in 1940, following an aborted experiment to convert this example with a “gazogene” unit to run the car on wood fumes in place of gasoline, it was parked for storage. Following an unfortunate incident in which Chatard and his companion were killed in 1955 following a train strike in another of his special Bugatti's, a Type 57 Atlantic, Chantard's widow would later sell chassis number 46524 and six other cars to famed Bugatti collector Jean De Dobbeleer.

    Soon sold as a running chassis with a radiator, hood, and cowl to Bob Estes and Otto Zipper of Precision Motor Cars in California, 46524 was then purchased by the famed Harrah collection in Reno, Nevada as it was acquired by De Dobbeleer in 1956. Remaining in the Harrah collection for a number of years, chassis number 46524 was then purchased at the Harrah auction in 1973 by Ed Morgan and his son.

    Avid restorers and collectors, the Morgans would leave this example as found for a number of years while plotting the best course of action. During their extensive research, it was discovered by the Morgans that in addition to the Weinberger-bodied Type 41 Royale Cabriolet commissioned by Dr. Joseph Fuchs, a similar Type 46 was also ordered. Inspired by this discovery, a trip was planned to the home of the Weinberger Royale which now resides at The Henry Ford Museum to measure and photograph their example. Using the information collected about the the Weinberger Royale, numerous drawings, measurements, and templates were contemplated before a final design was settled and in 1992, 46524 was handed over to Monty and Greg Montiller to receive its new coachwork.

    Completed in 1998, chassis number 46523 would emerge after receiving new coachwork and a full chassis and mechanical restoration in the Morgans' personal restoration shop. Finished in a beautiful two-tone green, the upholstery work was completed by Ken Niminek in a complementary two-tone green and tan leather. Riding on a 140-inch wheelbase chassis, the stunning coachwork featured sweeping Jean Bugatti-style wing fenders forming one continuous line running from the front to the rear of the car. Paired with Royale-style 20-inch alloy wheels, a contrasting tan canvas top, an upholstered rear-mounted trunk, and dual rear-mounted spare wheel, the newly restored Type 46 exudes a graceful appearance and debuted with a richly deserved First in Class at the 1998 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

    Following the initial showing, the Morgans would continue to show their newly completed Type 46, winning Best in Show at the 2000 Hillsborough Concours and Most Elegant Open Car at the 2003 Palo Alto Concours. Emerging from concours events, 46523 would continue to prove its merit while the Morgans participated in the three-day Bugatti West Coast Rally in August of 2003. A prized member of the Morgan Collection, this Type 46 was acquired in 2017 by The Gregorie Neck Collection where it has regularly been described as the crown jewel.

    Currently displaying just 511 kilometers at the time of cataloging, there has been minimal road-use of this example following the concours winning restoration. Finished in a stunning exterior with finely detailed brightwork, this Type 46 may very well be the perfect fit for the collector searching for an example with extraordinary history and stunning design.

    More info


    March 9, 2024 RM Sotheby's Dubai Auction

    1935 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Recreation by Erik Koux
    Chassis "57302", Estimate: $700,000 - $900,000

    • An expertly moulded recreation of the impossibly beautiful Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic ‘La Voiture Noire’
    • Transformed by Erik Koux for a Dutch collector with work completed in 1992; registered in the Netherlands before being taken to the Middle East in 2008
    • Based on the identity of a Type 57 Galibier; now features an engine built to Type 57SC specifications using some original parts
    • All-aluminium bodywork painstakingly crafted by hand
    • Please note this car is offered with a UAE Vehicle Registration. Please also note the car is titled as 1950.

    The rarest interpretation of the Type 57S by Bugatti was the famous Atlantic Coupé. Featuring an exotic, streamlined body which borrowed heavily from contemporary aeroplane construction methods of the era, this design was a true highlight of pre-war engineering and aesthetics. The Atlantic Coupé is undoubtedly Bugatti’s most revered, legendary, and valuable model created in its esteemed history. Only three examples were made, meaning that this fascinating Atlantic Coupé Recreation by Erik Koux is as close as most Bugatti aficionados might get to the real thing.

    In 1973, the Bugatti enthusiast and mechanical engineer Erik Koux began his ambitious goal of producing exacting recreations of the marque’s most esteemed models. Already well-versed in the European circuit of Bugatti collectors, historians, and restorers, the network built by Koux provided his budding project with a unique perspective. In the end, his efforts proved a tremendous success; today, his creations are hailed by the Bugatti community for their fastidious attention to detail, uncompromising build quality, and transparency, and they have been found in notable collections—including that of consummate enthusiast Jay Leno.

    As noted in a review of Koux’s recreations for an August 2009 issue of The Bugatti Revue, 'They are not mere look-alikes, they all have a significant amount of original Bugatti parts in them. The rest is precisely remanufactured duplicates. Type 57 engines converted to dry sump, and double oil pumps, power all but two of them ... donor Bugatti provide parts and titles, and yet there is no intent to deceive. The original Atlantics and the Koux recreations are so few, and so well known, that there can be no suggestion of passing one off as the other.' At any rate, Koux’s incredible methods of replication are detailed in explicit detail by multiple enthusiast publications.

    The Type 57SC Atlantic Recreation, offered here, is documented to have been built by Bugatti as a Type 57 Galibier chassis, which then gained coachwork by Vanvooren. It is believed that, as a new car, it was shown at the 1935 Prague Salon. While little is known from then until its adaptation by Koux, the chassis registry within Bugatti Magnum by Hugh Conway suggests that by 1989 its chassis number “57302” was recorded in the United States.

    Shortly after that, Koux’s great work began. The project was commissioned by a Dutch collector residing in Maastricht, and the Recreation was completed in 1992. Taking the usable underpinnings of the original car and manufacturing a new Type 57S chassis, also bearing the number “57302”, the Atlantic Recreation began to take shape. Its distinctive black bodywork hints at the visual cues of the car it pays homage to, while the central dorsal seam, impressive swooping front and rear wheel arches, and signature horseshoe grille reinforce the car’s standing as a faithful recreation of the Type 57SC Atlantic. After being prepared by Koux, the Bugatti was subsequently registered for the road in the Netherlands, remaining with the same owner until it was exported to the Middle East in 2008.

    The extract from the aforementioned issue of The Bugatti Revue sheds light on the recreation’s early years, after being completed by Koux and enjoyed by its Dutch owner: ‘He sold it only because the bumpy roads in the Netherlands repeatedly damaged the exhaust, requiring several very costly replacements. Besides the "wonderful sound" of the supercharged engine, "it drove like a modern car, steering light, brakes strong and lots of power. I must have driven it more than 40,000 km, more than any other Atlantic owner. Wherever it went it attracted large groups of people. Sometimes I was asked if I were Mr. Ralph Lauren, and of course I said I was.’

    This Atlantic Recreation by Erik Koux is a fascinating tribute to what many consider to be the most extraordinary car of all time. It would be an inspired acquisition for any serious collector of the marque who wishes to experience the thrill of this legendary model, while lessening the element of fear and risk that could come with driving the real thing. No doubt it would be equally welcome at concours events and shows as the car it was built to replicate.

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    March 12, 2024 Christie's Modern Collector Auction

    CARLO BUGATTI (1856-1940) Low Table, circa 1904-1905
    Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000

    walnut, vellum, copper and pewter inlay
    57.5 x 75.5 x 75.8 cm

    Very unusual Carlo Bugatti Table, though fully in line with his other work.

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    May 11 - 12, 2024 VINTAGE REVIVAL MONTLHERY France

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    May 29 - June 2, 2024 100e anniversaire du Grand Prix Bugatti Bourgogne, France

    For more info, contact the e-mail in the image on the right.

    Below some photographs of the event, as it was held in the Baie du Somme in 2014


    Bugatti events from the past

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