To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' The
Petersen Automotive Museum Auction event, 8 December 2018.
Estimate:
$40,000 - $60,000
- Beautifully presented example
- Rare Giardinetta (Calessino) model
- An iconic Italian scooter
Enrico Piaggio's intent was to offer an easy-to-use, economical,
and versatile vehicle, a light transport for the working man,
alongside his revolutionary personal transport, the Vespa scooter.
He commissioned his talented and creative engineer Corradino
D'Ascanio to once again come up with a solution, a light
three-wheeled commercial vehicle affectionately named the bee, or
Ape.
The first version of the Ape debuted in 1948 and was essentially an
open 125-ccVespa scooter with a two-wheeled, hydraulically braked
chassis in place of the rear wheel. Any number of bodies could be
erected on it, the most iconic being the beechwood and
masonite-framed Giardinetta (later called the Calessino). The model
"B" followed in 1952, with a 150-cc motor. The Ape's incredible
adaptability to design variations remained, and the initial eight
rose to 20 different body styles by 1958. Eventually the Ape would
come to be recognized as making a decisive contribution to the
revival of trade and goods transport during the rough years of
reconstruction following World War II. A symbol of Italy at work,
it became a huge success around the world, thanks to its incredible
handling and superlative payload/tare ratio.
Built by Piaggio under several different brands, the buggy-like
Vespa Calessino version offered here is among the relatively scarce
examples remaining, fewer yet in North America, and is an
especially charismatic and evocative style, designed to accommodate
both passengers and their goods.
This delightful and rare little buggy is a wonderful symbol of
Italian perseverance and charm.To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/ca18.
