Car enthusiasts from around the country headed to Tampa, Florida on October 14 and 15, 2011 for the very first of many Crown Collector Car auctions. The weather was about as good as one could put on order for some car-guy fun in the sun, still, a fully air conditioned auction arena awaited buyers, sellers and spectators alike which made for a very comfortable environment. Most of the cars were fastidiously lined in neat rows inside the climate-controlled arena, which allowed for a leisurely preview of the cars on offer. The auction tempo was well-paced and moved in orderly sequence for the two day event. Consignment levels were notably high including 50s classics, muscle cars and convertibles. It was a well-done sale with strong participation by both buyers and sellers.
The inaugural Crown Collector Car auction reported a final sales result of over $1,200,000, including the buyer’s premium. High sales honors went to a frame-off 1970 Chevelle LS6 convertible replica hammering home for $61,560. Other notable sales included a very nice left-hand-drive 1961 Bentley finding a new garage at $57,780, a stunning 1967 Chevelle SS396 Convertible selling for $60,480 and a 1971 Jaguar E Type roadster at a respectable $45,360. A well-documented 1969 Ford Ranchero fitted at the factory with a 428 CJ engine also changed hands for $41,580. Notable no-sales included a 1941 Cadillac four-door convertible at $150,000 and a 1956 Ford Crown Victoria Glass Top at $68,750. Another car of high interest was a beautifully restored 1968 Mercury Cougar GTE, a genuine 427 side-oiler example, which did not sell with a high bid of $55,000. Additionally, a very interesting, and well preserved, unrestored original 1922 Indian Scout motorcycle also crossed the block with a high bid of $8,000.
“We were extremely pleased with our sales results for a first-year venue. The auction was well organized, the Florida weather was fantastic and the quality level of consignments on offer was very high. Our Friday sell-through rate was right around 50% – which was extraordinary. We’re moving forward to build a series of high-quality auctions that cater to all levels of collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. I’m very thankful for all the great buyers and consignors that supported the auction here in Tampa. We really had a great time and I can’t wait for our next event” said owner Chris Tsonas.
Crown Collector Car Auctions reported a total consignment value of over $7,400,000 for the 214 cars consigned with 58 cars changing hands. Total sales, including the buyer’s premium, came to $1,213,920. Brent Earlywine directed the auction team which included the very well-known and respected Marty “the thrill” Hill and Kenny Garman. For more information about Crown Collector Car Auctions, please visit them online at www.crowncollectorcars.com.