An Automobile made for an Aviator

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

On 23 September 1913, Roland Garros was the first aviator to cross the Mediterranea. This glorious success is the achievement of his three years of passion for aviation.

At that time, between aviation and automobile, the difference is not very great. With one exception, however: luxury begins to reach the cars while it is not required for the aircrafts that only have to be functional.

Bonhams tells us that in this same year 1913 Ettore Bugatti had invited Roland Garros to visit his plant in Molsheim. There, the young aviator flashed for the latest model, the Type 18. He ordered a copy with coachwork by Labourdette, and he traveled several times to Alsace (with his faithful Morane-Saulnier aircraft) to monitor the progress of manufacturing.

This two-seater car, as sports as his first owner, is still in its original build, and is one of only three surviving copies of the Type 18. Known as Black Bess which was the name given by its second owner, it comes up for sale in Paris on February 7 after an almost centenarian career. Indeed this car was consistently present in specialized competitions and shows. It is estimated 1.3 million €.

Bonhams is organizing the sale during the Rétromobile exhibition, which is the principal Parisian meeting point for car fans.

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

The fans love the beautiful cars, especially those that had a prestigious owner. Black Bess won the right, at € 2.5 million including expenses, to continue his remarkable career in the specialty shows.