Finding the Unique

CategoriesAuctions Letter from the Editor

By Don WebergOn July 11, 2024July 11, 20240 Comments

Many collectors have it in them to locate and acquire things that not only reflect their interest, but are perhaps seldom or never seen. The term “one-of-one” comes to mind. It’s the i-ching for collectors to find that unicorn, that thing that no one else has, and while it might be an ego-driven sport, I often wonder if there is anything wrong with it. The pages of the magazine, and now the digital edition, have oodles of collectors with fascinating collections, sometimes sprinkled with some very cool, very rare items. They are all to excited to share them and, yes, very proud of them – but what’s often most fun is hearing the story of how they acquired the piece.

That said, this edition discusses a really cool auction coming up by Broad Arrow, packed with petroliana pieces from the UK. While it seems like a “so what” situation, ask yourself, especially my friends in North America, Asia, Africa, and South America, when was the last time you visited a collection with a few European petroliana pieces sprinkled in? How much fun would it be to have the collection with some European pieces? Well, Broad Arrow is making that possible, thanks to this auction – over 200 pieces, largely from the UK, are coming on offer at no reserve. Amazing opportunity, I hope you’ll partake in it – see some of the items below.

Bidding opens 14 July 2024 and concludes 28 July 2024, so if you haven’t, now is a good time to register to bid for the Online Petroliana Auction hosted by Broad Arrow. With over 200 unique, European lots, this sale offers the opportunity to add some items that are rare outside of the UK. Some unique pieces include a Jaguar E-Type Bonnet Assembly complete with the registration AFW 165A and racing number 63. Another fabulous Jaguar piece is this double-sided enamel Jaguar Sales and Service dealership sign. Measuring 100x100x20cm, it presents in beautiful condition. For collectors of gas and oil products, this Esso Anti-Knock Motor Spirit Gas/Petrol pump is sure to scratch a sweet spot. A 6-gallon visible, single-cylinder VISO petrol pump by The Boyle-Dayton Co., it’s been restored and features a reproduction globe.

Featured Lots

		1963 Bedford CA Dormobile Romany Caravan The charming caravan on offer began life as a Bedford CA van, which was transformed by the famous Dormobile corporation, as shown by its original Dormobile tag. After years of enjoyment, the caravan underwent a comprehensive overhaul in 2022, a process documented by the Wheeler Dealers television series. Their work brought the van to more modern standards, equipping it with a more powerful 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder Ford engine with an automatic transmission. The restoration also included a fresh coat of paint in a period-correct two-tone light-blue and white. Inside, the seats were retrimmed, new cabinets were installed with a two-burner gas stove and a stainless-steel sink, and the roof canopy was replaced with the correct red and white striped canvas sourced from Dormobile. These upgrades have transformed the camper into a more practical and modern van, without compromising its original charm. As a result, this 1963 Bedford CA Dormobile Romany Caravan is sure to be a charming companion for next weekend holiday or any number of historic gatherings. Additionally, it should be known that this 1963 Bedford CA Dormobile Romany Caravan has been used on roads as recently as April 2024, yet may benefit from additional mechanical review before being driven to address any imperfections associated with recent storage or individual preferences.
		Polly Gas Petrol Pump An absolutely stunning Polly Gas Petrol Pump, which would look beautiful in any setting, be it office space, home, garage or private collection. Measures 305x60x60cm.
		Atlantic Motor Spirit Gas/Petrol Pump One of the most visually striking Petrol Pumps in the auction, this Atlantic Motor Spirit Petrol Pump is sure to draw attention and be a talking piece. Measures 340x92x30cm.
		Golden Fleece Motor Oil Dispenser This beautiful Golden Fleece Motor Oil Dispenser in striking colours would make a beautiful collaboration piece if purchasing our full-size Golden Fleece Petrol Pump available at the auction. Measures 140x60x30cm.
		Assorted Esso Figurines - Mr Drip & Frau Tropf This assorted selection of smaller Esso figurines would make a great display piece or purchased as an addition to a wide-ranging number of exquisite Esso items within the auction. Each measuring 25x15x15cm.
		AC Oil Filters Plugs Enamel Sign This ultra rare and valuable AC Oil Filters enamel sign would be a great addition to any collection. Measures 75x30cm.
		Jaguar E-Type Bonnet Assembly The missing part or the perfect display piece, this raced number 63 green period vintage Jaguar E-Type bonnet assembly bears registration AFW 165A. Measures 250x150x75cm.