UPDATE: One of the most remarkable car collections in the United States is set to go under the hammer this weekend, as the Klairmont Kollections in Chicago prepares for a massive auction. The event, hosted by Mecum Auctions, begins on September 19 and runs through September 21, allowing the public a final glimpse of the iconic collection before bidding commences.
After the passing of real estate mogul Larry Klairmont in 2021, his eclectic collection of over 600 vehicles has been trimmed down to 284 cars that will now be sold. The auction is anticipated to generate between $12 million and $15 million, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting charitable initiatives, including scholarships for aspiring automotive professionals.
This weekend marks a pivotal moment for car enthusiasts and collectors alike, as the auction signifies the end of an era for Klairmont’s legacy. The collection features unique vehicles, including rare mid-century bubbletop cars and a 1926 Rickenbacker expected to fetch between $400,000 and $600,000.
Gus Kozar, a board member of the Klairmont Foundation and a Mecum Auctions specialist, noted, “This is a significant moment for collectors. Larry’s collection represented an artistic vision of automotive history.” The cars will be viewable by the public on Friday for a $20 entrance fee before the auction exclusively for bidders kicks off on the weekend.
Klairmont’s collection, displayed at his museum in Chicago, has been a testament to his passion for unique automobiles. Kozar reflects on Klairmont’s competitive nature, sharing, “Larry was a fierce bidder; his passion was palpable at auctions.”
While the auction marks a bittersweet farewell, it also opens doors for new collectors to acquire pieces of automotive history. “We see this often,” Kozar explained. “A wealthy individual builds a collection, and eventually, it moves on to new hands, creating fresh opportunities in the collector community.”
As the auction approaches, the excitement is palpable. “The cars fill every inch of space,” Kozar admitted, anticipating a complex process to safely transport the prized vehicles. The auction is not just an event; it’s a chance to witness the transformation of Klairmont’s legacy as it transitions into a new chapter.
The Klairmont Kollections auction is not just about cars; it’s about honoring a unique vision and ensuring that Klairmont’s enthusiasm for automotive art continues to inspire future generations. Don’t miss your chance to witness this historic event firsthand.
For more details and to preregister for the auction, visit www.mecum.com.
