To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Arizona
event, 17 - 18 January 2019.
Estimate:
$175,000 - $225,000
- Matching-numbers example
- Photo-documented frame-off restoration
- Presented in factory color of Hellgrun (light green)
- Complemented with stunning red leather interior
The automotive world was turned upside down when Mercedes-Benz
unveiled the 300 SL �Gullwing' coupe and 190 SL in prototype form
at the New York International Motor Sports Show in February 1954.
Both cars had been conceived by American auto importer Max Hoffmann
to appeal to the growing appetite for fashionable sports cars in
the U.S., and they were designed by Mercedes-Benz only after
Hoffmann guaranteed to buy a sufficient number to justify
production.
While the Gullwing would figure in the dreams of schoolboys for
years to come, it was the less expensive and more practical 190 SL,
with its comfortable seats, well-tailored convertible top, and
roll-up windows enveloped in lines that echoed those of the
Gullwing, that promised something different from the sports cars
coming from Europe. Both cars were in production by the end of
1955, and Grace Kelly was driving a silver 190 SL on the movie
screen, with Frank Sinatra as her passenger in the movie High
Society.
According to the data card on file, this 190 SL was delivered to
Capt. Richa of the 7th Army of W�rzburg, Germany, on 18 January
1960. Presumably an officer of the United States Army, Captain
Richa ordered the 190 SL through the NATO affiliated dealership.
Although delivered to Germany, due to his nationality, this model
was originally a Special Version for the U.S., as noted on the data
card. The car was originally delivered in Feurrot (Fire Red, DB
534) with ivory leather upholstery. The 190 SL has since benefited
from a comprehensive frame-off restoration by Platinum Restorations
of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and is beautifully finished in a
correct factory color combination of Hellgrun (Light Green) over a
red leather interior.
Presented in a beautiful and classic color scheme, this
Mercedes-Benz 190 SL is primed and ready for its next owner.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az19.
