The story of a legendary Ferrari found in a French barn, and finally sold 50 years later, at a record price

It is one of the most beautiful stories in the modern automobile: a Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder of 1961, abandoned for almost half a century in a barn in the center of France, was sold at a record price of 16.3 million euros. Moreover, This mythical convertible, considered the most beautiful of the second half of the 20th century, formerly belonged to Alain Delon. Nevertheless, And his incredible course only adds to his legend.

The forgotten treasure of the Baillon collection

The story begins with Roger Baillon. In addition, a French industrialist passionate about automotive who dreamed of creating his own museum. Nevertheless, In the 1950s and 60s, it was a unique collection of story legendary ferrari found french prestigious cars. Consequently, Unfortunately, financial difficulties force him to suspend his project. Furthermore, Some cars are sold, others are forgotten … Moreover, and end up stored in hangars, out of sight and bad weather.

It was not until 2014, during a succession, that the Baillon heirs opened the doors of these barns. Inside: more than 100 vintage cars. including this Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, Scaglietti bodywork, with carénées, one of the 37 produced in this configuration. And above all, which has remained in an intact state of origin, never restored.

A story worthy of a film… with Alain Delon

But this Ferrari does not shine only by its rarity. She also had a star life. Exhibited at the 1961 Paris Salon. she was first acquired by actor Gérard Blain, before going into the hands of her friend Alain Delon in 1963. Delon. at the top of her career at the time, was often photographed behind the car, especially in Los Angeles with his wife Nathalie Delon.

The car even makes the trip to California, where it is used for their trips. Moving details. such as the pair of leather gloves left in the glove box or even period petrol vouchers, were found during rediscovery.

Historical sale story legendary ferrari found french at Artcurial

On February 6. 2015, the Artcurial Maison organized the auction of the Baillon collection as part of the Rétromobile Salon. The Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder (chassis 2935GT, Matching Numbers) is the subject of all attention. Priced between 9.5 and 12 million euros, it is finally sold for 16.3 million euros, becoming at the time the most expensive “barn find” in the history of the automobile.

What fascinated collectors? Its exceptional state of original. Unlike many restored models, it had been simply … forgotten. Protected by magazine stacks, bodywork, interior, mechanics, everything was period. A real jump in time, frozen for over 45 years. Specialists do not hesitate to qualify it as Grail automobile.