Monterey Car Week: A Celebration of Legends and History
RM Sotheby’s Auction Announcement with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: A New Chapter in Automotive History
In what is being heralded as a once-in-a-lifetime event in the world of collector cars, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is embarking on a bold new chapter, and I am deeply honored to be part of this historic occasion through my photography of two of the most iconic cars featured in their upcoming RM Sotheby’s auction: the 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196 Streamliner and the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM.
Photographing the Mercedes-Benz W196 Streamliner was a profound experience. This car, driven by legends Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss, is more than just a machine; it’s a piece of racing history. The streamlined body, a marvel of engineering and design, is as much a work of art as it is a feat of performance. Capturing its curves and contours in my signature style allowed me to bring out the intrinsic power and elegance that made this car a winner on the track and a legend off it. The W196’s estimated sale price of $50,000,000–70,000,000 reflects its unparalleled historical significance. (I believe this estimate is very low)
The 1964 Ferrari 250 LM, with its rich racing pedigree, was another highlight of my photographic journey. This car, which took first overall at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans, represents the pinnacle of Ferrari’s endurance racing success. As I framed this iconic car through my lens, I sought to highlight not just its sleek, aerodynamic lines but also the enduring legacy of speed and innovation it embodies. The Ferrari’s history, from its victories at Le Mans to its appearances at the world’s most prestigious concours events, is a story that deserves to be told visually and celebrated for generations to come.
These images will serve as a lasting tribute to two automotive treasures as they embark on the next chapter of their storied lives through the auction. Each shot is a testament to the art of motoring and the enduring legacy of these iconic machines, marking an extraordinary moment not only for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum but for the entire collector car world.
Monterey Car Week 2024 was a momentous occasion, marked by the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca. This year, the event held particular significance as it honored my dear friend, Lyn St. James, with her induction into the Legends Hall—a long-overdue recognition for her incredible contributions to motorsports.
Lyn’s remarkable career is a testament to her resilience and passion. From becoming the first woman to win the Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year to breaking barriers in various motorsport arenas, Lyn has been a trailblazer for women in racing. Her induction into the Legends Hall at Laguna Seca is a fitting tribute to her legacy, recognizing not only her achievements on the track but also her dedication to advocating for women in motorsports.
Being there to support Lyn as she received this well-deserved honor was a deeply meaningful experience. Her journey has inspired countless others, and seeing her celebrated among the legends of racing was a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on an entire industry. Lyn’s story is not just about speed; it’s about breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations.
As an attendee of Monterey Car Week, there's a special kind of thrill in witnessing the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion celebrate its Golden Anniversary. Being part of this historic moment in the world of motorsport made me appreciate just how far this event has come since its inception. What began with the Monterey Historic Automobile Races in 1974, founded by Steve Earle, has grown into a cornerstone of automotive culture, alongside the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Together, these events have shaped Monterey Car Week into the globally recognized celebration it is today.
Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: A Historic Best in Show
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance continues to be the pinnacle of automotive excellence, and this year was no exception. The competition field was graced with 214 cars from 16 countries, but the moment that truly stood out was the crowning of the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports as Best in Show—the first preservation car to ever receive this prestigious honor.
This storied Bugatti, presented by Fritz Burkard of The Pearl Collection, is not just a car; it’s a living testament to the history and legacy of motorsport. This particular Type 59, the first of its kind, boasts an impressive pedigree with ties to royalty and a legacy of Grand Prix victories. Its preservation, rather than restoration, underscores the significance of maintaining the authenticity of historical vehicles.
As I walked the grounds of Pebble Beach, I encountered past clients, friends, and several cars that I’ve had the privilege to photograph in the past. It was a unique pleasure to see these familiar masterpieces in such a prestigious setting, each one a testament to the timeless beauty of classic automotive design. The 1934 Bugatti Type 59’s win was a watershed moment, not just for the car itself but for the growing appreciation of preservation in the world of automotive collecting. My images of this extraordinary vehicle will forever capture its original glory, a fitting tribute to a car that has truly stood the test of time.
