This issue is dedicated to Monterey Car Week with two sweet deviations: a chat with Steve Contarino of Automobilia Vintage, and Matt Stone, who’s authored innumerable car books and magazine articles. Steve has a stunning track record of acquiring some of the most unique and never-before-seen collectibles ever, and is bringing them to market through his Automobila Vintage. Matt Stone tells us the tale of Virgil Exner’s Chrysler Norseman Idea Car. The timing of this column couldn’t have been better, as the Pebble Beach Concours hosted a lovely array of Chrysler Idea Cars and one-offs, many designed by Exner himself.
Speaking of Monterey Car Week, I heard it was a great year. Lots going on. Different, indeed, new events replacing old ones. But I also heard some troubling reports, tales of some disagreeable changes. Interestingly, and perhaps namely, it has to do with new attitudes and a number of newcomers. This year, in particular, seemed to be a bit more chaotic than tranquil, with a heavier dose of ghetto than ever before with reports of burnout-takeovers at the In-N-Out burger, the Home Depot, and the Target in neighboring Seaside. Two McLarens had their windshields deliberately smashed while parked in a Carmel driveway, and the rumor is the vandalism was caused by locals upset over the traffic and noise. In fact, there’s another Carmel rumor that says locals encourage damaging the cars to discourage the annual pilgrimage to the Peninsula. There were multiple wrecks, including one between a Rolls-Royce Cullinan and a Lamborghini Murcielago, and the police discovered an abandoned Audi R8 that had been crashed into bushes. And it goes on. But – many, and I would say most, reported seeing only good things, enjoying Car Week as usual, that things are largely back on track, even without some of our favorite events.
Maybe, like Steve Contarino’s secret in finding the rarest jewels in automobilia, and how the Norseman met its fate – it all boils down to where you are as to what will find you? Enjoy, thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for stopping by!
