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Photography by Liam Henderson
The nine-year-old Salon Privé has become one of the most luxurious motor events in the world, akin to The Quail in the US, but consists of three days of activities rather than the Quail’s one. Held last week from Wednesday through Friday, the first day is the Concours d’Elegance, followed by Boodles Ladies’ Day and the Salon Privé Sale on the second day, and finally, the British Supercar Show closes out the week.
While we’re well-acquainted with Goodwood and Silverstone, the Salon Privé is rapidly gaining in popularity. It is held on a picturesque estate at Syon House, Brentford, which provides an excellent surrounding atmosphere. The show’s overall feel is much different to most as it’s a relaxing event, one can happily wander around the gardens with a glass of Pommery champagne while seeing and hearing some of the rarest cars on earth–not a bad way to spend a day.
Much like The Quail also because of the mix of cars, Salon Privé allows people to show their classics as well as modern supercars. However, this year a 1955 Jaguar D-Type won Best in Show at the Concours d’Elegance. Of equal interest to some, a real 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder and 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso were sold in the Salon Privé Sale. Additionally, there is a nod to the future at Salon Privé that included the debut of Mini’s Superleggera Vision electric roadster concept this year. It is precisely this variety and quality that make the event so remarkable. We can’t wait to see what turns up next year. For now though, we’ll just enjoy this year.
I cant really put my finger on it … but these UK classic shows leave me a bit cold and always have . Perhaps its that Public School mentality that seems to pervade amongst most of the participants .. perhaps its their Aristocratic bent that gets up my nose .. maybe its just the overall attitudes that bother me .. or it could be that my taste/tolerance for the whole Concurs/ Salons etc mentality is severely on the wane [ especially in comparison to events like the Colorado Grand / Wheels & Waves etc ] But it does seem to me at the point where shows like Monterey / Pebble Beach etc are finally beginning to open up a bit… gradually leaving the attitude behind .. the Brit shows close down and are becoming more Attitudinal than ever .
I dunno … perhaps its just this one Yank’s opinion …. but thats where I’m at lately .
Looking happy – and perhaps a tad smug – wearing a boater while driving your uncle’s Masser, is just one way of enjoying yourself in this short life we have. Like dripping hamburger fat on your lap as you tool down I-95 in your Mustang. Neither one bothers me, nor does the simple fact some people have money, some do not. That we enjoy cars is all that matters… Neko.