To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Paris event, 6 February
2019.
Estimate:
�200.000 - �250.000
- One of only three examples bodied by Carrozzeria Touring
- Offered from two decades of single ownership
One of the last Fiats designed before the outbreak of WWII, a grand
total of 624 2800s were built. Of these, 210 were built for
military use and 414 for private individuals. Only three were
bodied by Touring, making this example amongst the most desirable
of those in existence.
Expensive when new, especially with custom coachwork, it would not
be surprising to learn that some wound up with Italy's Partito
Nazionale Fascista. While no details have been confirmed, the story
of chassis no. 000561 is not without drama. It is said to have been
part of the convoy of vehicles used by Benitio Mussolini, Claretta
Petacci, her brother Marcel and his family to escape Italy in April
of 1945. Documents on file allude to this, yet none are
conclusive.
Following WWII, the Fiat was smuggled into Switzerland and later
sold to an Italian family residing in Martigny. It would reside
with them for 50 years. During their ownership, the car was
restored in its present black and red colour scheme, and has been
seldom used since. The restoration presents very well, especially
when considering its age. Purchased by its current owner 20 years
ago, its second Swiss owner since the war, the car has mostly
remained in storage since and would be a thrilling acquisition for
someone looking to delve deeper into its history. To view this car
and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/pa19.
