Visitors to the Geneva Motor Show in 1960 were among the first members of the public to witness the style and beauty of the glorious Ferrari 250 SWB California Spider first hand. This exact SWB, to be precise. Chassis 1795 GT was the first of the 56 that Ferrari would produce in total.
On the show stand it was finished in Grigio with a red leather interior. It is also one of very few to be fitted with a competition-spec engine from the factory. Other desirable features include a factory hardtop and covered headlights. RM also states that the dashboard layout is believed to be unique.
Following the show it was returned to Maranello, where the interior was re-trimmed in black, before being delivered to its first owner, racer John Gordon Bennett, who was residing in Geneva at the time. Although it’s known to have ventured onto the Nürburgring early on, it was never raced competitively.
It was exported to the USA in 1963, where it has remained since, in the care of only four further owners over the past six decades. Today it is Ferrari Classiche ‘Red Book’ certified, which means it retains its original engine, gearbox, rear axle and bodywork.
RM Sotheby’s will auction this incredible Ferrari 250 in Monterey – the first time this example has been offered at auction – where it is estimated to sell for between $16,000,000 and $18,000,000.
‘Chassis 1795 GT is beyond special among an already legendary model, the California Spider; this is the very first California Spider ever produced, a true icon of automotive history,’ said Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions. ‘The California Spider is one of the rare models that transcends generations; with a timeless beauty that appeals to both young and old, and a driving experience that evokes a lasting impression on all of the body’s senses, this is a rare opportunity to acquire the very best. Stay tuned as we announce other exciting cars and collections for our Monterey lineup.
