The Exclusive Club: Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Owners
The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is considered one of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world, with only four known examples ever built. This exclusivity makes owning an Atlantic a privilege reserved for a select few.
The Known Owners:
- Victor Rothschild (1936): The first owner was the British banker and philanthropist Victor Rothschild. He commissioned the car in a special blue color and used it for several years before selling it.
- Robert Lee (1938): Robert Lee, a wealthy American businessman, purchased the car from Rothschild. It remains unknown how he acquired it and how long he owned it.
- Dr. Peter Williamson (1950s): After a few more unknown owners, Dr. Peter Williamson, a British physician, purchased the car in the 1950s and owned it for several decades. It is unknown if the car was completely restored in the 1950s or later.
- Ralph Lauren (1988): The famous fashion designer Ralph Lauren purchased the car in 1988. Lauren is known for his vast collection of classic cars, and the Atlantic is considered one of his most prized possessions.
The Mystery:
The whereabouts of the other three Atlantics have been a source of fascination for automotive historians and enthusiasts for decades.
- Chassis 57453: This Atlantic was originally owned by the French racing driver Jean-Pierre Wimille. It disappeared during World War II and its location is still unknown.
- Chassis 57473: Originally owned by French businessman Jacques Meyer, this Atlantic also disappeared during World War II. The car is believed to have been destroyed in an accident or dismantled for parts.
- Chassis 57491: The third lost Atlantic was originally ordered by the American actress and socialite, Lillian Gish. The car was later sold to a collector, but it was never completed. Its location is still a mystery.
The Legacy:
The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic remains an icon of automotive excellence and exclusivity. The few known owners of the car are a testament to its enduring appeal and historical significance. Its mystery adds to its mystique and continues to captivate the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide.
