An expertly restored 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Torpedo Roadster will be among the finest offerings at RM Auctions' forthcoming Monterey sale (August 16-17).
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Considered the fastest sports car in the world in 1928, the exceptional automobile combines German engineering and French artistry, boasting reptile skin seats, swooping front fenders and dramatic wood accents.
At the behest of its present owners, who acquired the Torpedo in 2008 for an undisclosed figure, the vehicle has undergone extensive, yet sympathetic restoration.
After a great deal of research, esteemed restoration firm Paul Russell & Company returned the car to its original Dove Grey colour, punctuated with period correct red accents. In 2012, the quality of the restoration was recognised at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where the car was awarded 100 points, going on to claim the coveted Best of Show title.
Originally custom-designed for a Mr and Mrs Charles Levine, the car was never delivered to the Levines, who are thought to have lost a great deal of money in the Wall Street crash.
Instead, the striking vehicle was exhibited at 1929's New York Auto Salon, before going on permanent display at Mercedes-Benz's elegant New York showroom.
RM Auctions' Rob Myers comments: "We are truly honored to offer the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Best of Show winner at our upcoming Monterey sale.
"Magnificent in every respect, the 680S Saoutchik Torpedo is a stunning work of art that blends superb design with high performance, making it an ideal candidate for the world's leading events, including long-distance touring.
"It's the perfect fit for our Monterey sale - an event held during a week that celebrates the best in design - and we're thrilled that Paul Russell's renowned restoration team will be on hand to help present this exceptional automobile at our Monterey auction next month."
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