People who are not auto enthusiasts might find the concept of ‘bonding’ with a car strange. After all, how can you form an emotional attachment with an inanimate object? Anyone reading this piece wouldn’t have a problem with the idea but let me elaborate- so you might be better prepared the next time some well meaning but dense friend, relative or stranger attacks you for your incomprehensible behavior.
Since I’ve been away, much has happened in the world. Not least of which was ‘Brexit’. As predicted, the world financial markets all experienced declines and the Pound Sterling and Euro dived against the dollar. But, does it have an effect on the collector car market?
A move back to Connecticut preceded my furthest relocation at the time, 2,824 miles to Southern California where I currently hang my hat when not bouncing around the world for work. That work most recently led me to establish a part-time residence in Northern Italy, and had me reflecting on the cars I’ve owned and how my place of residence may have influenced my choices.
The recent ‘generational shift’ in collecting may actually be examples of ‘mature’ collectors seeking a more comfortable, reliable and usable ride. It’s one of those rare instances in which we Baby Boomers can share an opinion with the Millennials without embarrassment or explanation.
I had owned a 1967 Mercedes-Benz 230SL shortly after graduating college and loved that car for its purely mechanical appeal. The younger 230 SLK had so much of the same DNA it was remarkable. It felt like a modern roadster, yet was unmistakably Mercedes.
We all have memories of our first car. For most of us they’re pleasant ones, reminders of not only our first taste of real independent mobility, but for enthusiasts also the moment when we could turn our childhood passion into actual practice.
In my professional capacity, I am often liked and trusted by people I trust and like, to assist them in making wise decisions on what car to buy or sell and when. The process always begins with a series of questions designed to determine what I feel is the most important criteria for buying or selling a car: “How will you use it?”
