Following the ultra-rare 1954 AJS E95 "Porcupine" factory racer to Bonhams Quail Lodge auction in California on 18 August, is another very rare and desirable motorcycle - the very last
Brough Superior SS100 to roll off the production line has now been consigned to the sale.
Considered one of the greatest motorcycles ever made, and famous for consistently being the most coveted and valuable sold at auction, the SS100 was the flagship model of the bespoke English Brough Superior brand. This exclusive 1940 example - the last to come with full factory records - is a gem of historical significance as it represents the final chapter of one of the world's most legendary machines. It carries an estimate of $350,000-$400,000.
A pair of British Coventry-Eagle Flying-8 motorcycles, a 1925 SV and a 1928 OHV, has been consigned from a collection in England. Both uncommon and highly sought-after, the Flying-8 model was regarded as one of the most attractive -and most expensive- motorcycles of its time. The latter machine, one of very few known to exist, was considered a superbike of the 1920s and was a worthy rival of Brough Superior and a formidable Brooklands racer. Rarely seen on the open market, these elegant, hand-built speed machines are estimated at $100,000 and $250,000, respectively.
Yet another legendary British motorcycle marque, Vincent, will be represented by the utterly unique Black Prince model. Described by its creator Phil Vincent as a "two-wheeled Bentley," this enclosed motorcycle was truly ahead of its time and a real performance machine, even if opinion of its avant-garde styling was mixed. The 1955 Vincent Black Prince carries an estimate of $120,000-$140,000.
Additionally, a highly desirable American 1928 Henderson Deluxe Four, originally sold to South Africa, will be on offer with an estimate of $60,000-$70,000.
These and other exceptional motorcycles and motorcars will be auctioned at Bonhams' 14th annual sale at Quail Lodge in Carmel, California, on Thursday and Friday, August 18-19. As this is the first time a dedicated live auction of motorcycles will be held during the 60+ years of the famed Pebble Beach Car Week, the opportunities for sellers are unprecedented. Owners interested in consigning highly unique motorcycles to this anticipated event may call 415-391-4000 or e-mail one of the Bonhams motorcycle specialists.
Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world's oldest and largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. The present company was formed by the merger in November 2001 of Bonhams & Brooks and Phillips Son & Neale UK. For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, go to www.bonhams.com (May 2010).