Auction: A Bentley as a bargain
WAGED AND WON On March 28, everything was different at the auction of the Oldtimer Galerie in Toffen. Because of the Corona crisis there is a ban on events in Switzerland as in surrounding countries. The engine of the Bentley Arnage T, built in 2003, can only be heard very softly during the short drive-through. Normally, the auctions in the [...]
The engine of the Bentley Arnage T, built in 2003, can only be heard very quietly during the short drive-through.
Normally, the auctions in the old factory hall have a certain folk festival character. There is a lot of laughter and smiling, the mood is relaxed and the auctioneer is entertaining. Bratwursts are snacked on and the odd beer is drunk.
While other auction houses canceled their auctions, organizer Reinhard Schmidlin and his team decided to go through with the already prepared sale event, without an audience nota bene.
Bidding by internet, telephone or pre-bidding
In order to provide interested parties with the most comprehensive information possible about the cars, the Toffen team went to great lengths. Each car was filmed in advance during a drive-by, and additional photos of underbody and details were taken and posted on the web (AutoSprintCH reported).
Previews and test drives
Potential buyers appreciated the service, as feedback in advance showed. Even previews and test drives were possible until the day before the auction, but only by prior appointment and in compliance with distance regulations.
A livestream replaced the visit on site on the day of the auction for those at home. Moving pictures of the auctioneer and the Toffen team were transmitted in good quality.
Two online auction service providers accepted the Internet bids. In addition, up to four Toffen employees with their cell phones to their ears were bidding for the interested parties sitting at home.
Per vehicle lot 27 710 francs
The auction lasted about 3.5 hours - and it was hardly less exciting than other auctions. Only it seemed a bit more synthetic, because the audience is usually already a significant part of the atmosphere and also guarantees surprises.
Bids totaling around 2.1 million Swiss francs were received. The prices of the vehicles sold, including a twelve percent commission, totaled around 1.5 million. This means that 27,710 francs were paid per vehicle lot.
Preparations Swiss Classic World
Results and background information on the auction in Toffen in detail can be found on intergas.com. The next auction is scheduled to go over the ramp at the Swiss Classic World in Lucerne. The event is expected to take place in August.
Reinhard Schmidlin: "Vehicle registrations and catalog orders are now possible. Register your vehicle early. There are only limited spaces available."
