Most classic Ferraris attract a lot of attention at auctions but when it comes to certain models like the rare Ferrari 250 GT California Spider, the interest and excitement intensify to an entirely different level. Gooding & Company are the official auction house for the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and their headline offering for the event this year will be a Concours condition example of the 250 GT LWB California in period-correct Grigio Vinovo paintwork and brown leather interior.
The 250 GT came into existence thanks to the persuasive powers of Luigi Chinetti and John von Neumann, two prominent North American Ferrari dealers who convinced the factory to build a car which could be used as a daily driver during the week and raced competitively on weekends. Styled by Scaglietti, the 250 GT California Spider was the epitome of effortless style, and the 50 LWB and 56 SWB examples made have become some of the most sought-after Ferraris in the history of the marque.
This particular 1958 example, chassis 1055 GT, is the 11th LWB Spider built and features the rare faired-in headlights. Presented in near perfect condition, it is a matching numbers car with Ferrari Classiche certification and the holder of numerous awards from prestigious classic car shows. It has undergone a complete restoration by experts Motion Products Inc, and is also offered with a comprehensive history report compiled by marque historian Marcel Massini.
According to Gooding & Co, this California Spider is one for the perfectionist, something reflected in its estimated selling price of between $11,000,000 and $13,000,000. The Pebble Beach Auction is taking place between August 17 and 19 and further information on this exquisite car and is available on Gooding & Co’s website.
All images copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company.
Photos by Mathieu Heurtault.
