Dubai, UAE – Luxury cars enthusiasts and collectors alike are eagerly eyeing the auction happening today in Dubai, where global collector car auction company RM Sotheby’s has brought 24 unique and valuable items to the bidding floor. Ranging from sleek supercars to limited-edition memorabilia, the auction promises a showcase of opulence and rarity.
The auction, set to take place today, features an array of items with starting bids ranging from Dh300,000 to a staggering Dh12 million. Among the highlights is the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet, a 2018 open-top off-roader coveted for its rarity, with only 99 examples ever produced. Sporting a distinctive “Landaulet” retractable roof design, this exclusive vehicle has garnered significant attention, with bids starting from $700,000.
Another notable offering is the 1985 Renault 5 Turbo 2, a celebrated performance hatchback from the 1980s known for its agility and speed. Having made its way to the UAE in 2015 after traversing various cities in the US, this vintage vehicle boasts a top speed of 200 km/h and carries a starting bid of Dh350,000.
In addition to high-performance cars, the auction also features unique collectibles, including a Crystal children’s car from Halfscale Cars. Adorned with an astonishing 100,000 hand-set Swarovski Xirius-cut crystals and plated in 24-carat gold, this glitzy children’s car is a testament to luxury craftsmanship. Handcrafted in the UK, each crystal was meticulously applied over 300 hours, making it an exquisite piece expected to fetch at least Dh80,000.
Car enthusiasts will also have the chance to bid on the 959 Fiat 500 Jolly by Ghia, a rare gem designed by renowned Italian automobile design firm Carrozzeria Ghia. With its vibrant red paintwork, wicker seats, and canvas roof, this unique vehicle exudes charm and nostalgia, drawing attention from visitors at the exhibition.
For those with a penchant for horology, the auction offers the Breitling 8-Day Power Reserve Keyless Winding Desk Clock, featuring a design inspired by the radiator grille of a Rolls-Royce car. Crafted in 1950, this iconic desk clock doubles as a statement piece, with the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ mascot serving as the crown to set the time. Expected to sell for approximately Dh20,000, it’s a must-have for automotive aficionados.
Among the most coveted items on auction is the 2023 Aston Martin Valkyrie Coupé, a Formula 1-inspired road-legal race car boasting unparalleled speed and performance. With only 150 examples produced, this sleek masterpiece accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.6 seconds, embodying the pinnacle of automotive engineering. Partnered with Red Bull Racing, Aston Martin has set a base price of Dh10 million for this exclusive vehicle.
Last but not least is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss, a rare gem among luxury cars. Inspired by British F1 racer Sir Stirling Moss’ historic victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia race, this vehicle is one of only 75 ever made and is expected to command a price tag exceeding Dh12 million.
In addition to luxury cars, the auction offers a range of memorabilia for Formula 1 enthusiasts, including a Scuderia Ferrari racing suit worn by Michael Schumacher and a replica of late F1 racer Ayrton Senna’s helmet, providing collectors with a chance to own a piece of motorsport history.
Ahead of the auction, all items were showcased at AlSerkal Avenue, allowing the general public to admire these exquisite offerings. With the auction set to commence, bidders and spectators alike eagerly anticipate the excitement and anticipation that accompanies such prestigious events.
