Classic car collectors and enthusiasts from across North America converged on the small community of Tarpon Springs, Florida on the weekend as prominent local entrepreneur and collector, Al Wiseman, parted with several million dollars of historic automotive treasures from his private collection.

The “Al Wiseman Collection” event, hosted by RM Auctions and held November 30 and December 1, saw over 80 desirable automobiles, 50 vintage motorcycles and scooters, and a charming collection of memorabilia cross the block for a total $6.7 million in sales.

A lifelong auto enthusiast and collector, Mr. Wiseman’s collection – built over the past two decades – was considered one of the most interesting in the United States, a deserving reputation given its extensive range of unique, one-of-a-kind, experimental vehicles.

“The diversity of the Wiseman Collection presented our clientele with some very unique ownership opportunities,” said RM’s Dan Spendick, a 30-year veteran of the classic car industry. “With many experimental and one-of-a-kind vehicles up for offer, we expected to see spirited bidding and strong prices, and are pleased to report that certainly was the case.”

Upon reflecting on the event, Mr. Wiseman said it was a delight to see so many like-minded, passionate collectors in attendance at the sale

“The auction was well-organized and had a wonderful atmosphere,” said Mr. Wiseman. “It was a great thrill to see the excitement of the new owners and satisfying to know that the cars that have brought me so much joy over the years are going to deserving homes,” he added.

Highlights of the sale included: • A 1931 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, featuring a Rolls-Royce 1,100hp Merlin V-12 aircraft engine, sold for $412,500 • An elaborate 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Cut-Away Autorama Display Car brought $704,000 • Group of significant Corvettes, first year 1953 Roadster, 2003 50th Anniversary and matching 1953 pedal car, drew $390,500 • One of the world’s first purposely-built hybrids, a 1930 Rauch & Lang Gasoline-Electric Sedan, brought $112,750 • A rare 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz Experimental “Raindrop” car – the prototype of five examples produced – sold for $330,000 • A magnificent 1937 Indian Four Model 437 Motorcycle came in beyond the original estimate at $110,000

Also attracting significant interest was Mr. Wiseman’s extensive range of collectibles, which had been accumulated over the past 20 years and countless visits to museum closings. Amongst the most hotly-contested items were: vintage gas pumps, popcorn machines and scooters.

For other collectors, like Wiseman, looking to downsize their collections, Wiseman is quick to recommend an auction house as opposed to private sale.

Last weekend’s “Al Wiseman Collection” event rounds off a solid year for RM Auctions, which, in addition to numerous highly successful North American auctions, included record-breaking sales in both Maranello, Italy and London, England. The Canadian-based auction house will kick off the 2008 collector car calendar in Phoenix, Arizona on January 18 with the return of their much-anticipated “Vintage Motor Cars in Arizona” event.

About RM Auctions, Inc. Celebrating nearly 30 years in the collector car industry, North American-based RM Auctions Inc. and its associated companies are responsible for acquisitions, restorations and sales of the world’s rarest and most valuable vintage automobiles, including record-breaking sales in Maranello, Italy and London, England. RM’s restoration division achieved unprecedented accolades in 2006, when they earned “Best of Show” honors at the world’s top three collector car events in a single year. www.rmauctions.com

Posted: 12|19|07 at 10:06 am. Filed under: Press Release.