RM and Sotheby’s launch new online auction series

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Sotheby's and RM Sotheby's launch a series of online auctions with this 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 | RM Sotheby's photos by Darin Schnabel

Sotheby’s and RM Sotheby’s are launching a new series of online-only, single-lot automobile auctions, beginning immediately with bidding open May 10 through May 23 on a “beautifully restored” 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8.

“Hosted on Sotheby’s newly developed digital auction platform, the sales will offer new and seasoned collectors alike a unique process for discovering and acquiring cars selected specifically for the new format,” the auction house announced.

“While the sale format is new, the quality of cars for auction on the digital auction platform will be consistent with Sotheby’s and RM Sotheby’s offerings and will be subject to RM Sotheby’s mechanical and cosmetic inspection process completed by a specialist.”

The company said the cars up for bidding online will be available for in-person viewing and inspection in a building at the Auburn Auction Park in northeast Indiana. 

“Sellers and buyers can also expect the same concierge-level service offered by Sotheby’s and RM Sotheby’s, assisting clients from the moment of consignment through to final transaction and transportation,” the announcement said.

“Sotheby’s has already demonstrated great success with its new digital auction platform, and we are excited to offer collector cars via this proven tool,” the news release quoted Kenneth Ahn, president of RM Sotheby’s. 

“We very much look forward to providing car collectors and enthusiasts a platform that harnesses the reach of both Sotheby’s and RM Sotheby’s brands, as well as the opportunity to present a curation of high-quality cars for sale digitally and outside of our traditional scheduled auction events. 

The Healey’s interior

“Clients can expect multiple cars per month, representing a variety of market segments and themes,” he added.

The first car offered in the new series is a 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8 restored in its original Ivory White over black colors.

“The Austin-Healey is true to the way it left the factory, save for a couple of tasteful modifications,” the auction company said. “Beautifully restored by marque specialists and fully sorted, this is perhaps the ideal driver’s car to be enjoyed in the coming summer months.”

The car is expected to sell for $60,000 to $70,000 and is offered at no reserve. Photography, documentation, and a pre-purchase inspection of the car are available at the Sotheby’s website.

Sotheby’s also announced on May 10 that the 1973 Porsche 911 Targa 2.4L offered as part of the “Berluti: The Art of Craftsmanship” online auction sold for $348,500, well beyond its high $225,000 pre-sale estimate.

The company also recently announced a joint effort with Rolls-Royce for an online auction this fall of a one-off Rolls-Royce Phantom as part of the automaker’s 115th anniversary celebration.

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