2023 to now

Except otherwise stated, all results include the premium.
​See also : Dinosaur  Hypercars  Bugatti Automobiles  McLaren  Formula One  Time pieces  Patek Philippe  New watches  OnlyWatch  Leica

2023 The Mediterranean Blue
​2025 SOLD for CHF 18M by Sotheby's

The Mediterranean blue is a type IIb fancy vivid blue diamond of VS2 clarity weighing 10.03 carats. It has been cut as a cushion modified brilliant from a 31.93 carat rough gem unearthed in the Cullinan mine in South Africa.

Its GIA report is dated July 2, 2024. In a special study including this diamond, the GIA states that blue diamonds are formed far deeper in the Earth’s mantle than any other diamond and tries to establish a link between blue diamonds and the oceanic water. Its crystal lattice strain can be observed in polarized light.

It was sold for CHF 18M by Sotheby's on May 13 2025, lot 602. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
​
​Overview of Type IIb Diamonds
Type IIb diamonds represent less than 0.5% of all natural diamonds and are distinguished by their boron impurities, which impart blue coloration and unique semiconducting properties. These diamonds originate from extreme depths in the Earth's mantle, far deeper than most other diamonds.
The 2024 GIA Monograph and New Findings
The 2024 GIA monograph, prepared exclusively to accompany the Mediterranean Blue diamond, synthesizes recent scientific advancements on the formation of Type IIb blue diamonds. Drawing from a comprehensive 2024 review by Shirey et al. in the Annual Review of Earth and Planetary Sciences, the monograph highlights how these diamonds form in the sublithospheric mantle at depths of 360–800 km, encompassing the asthenosphere, transition zone, and uppermost lower mantle. This is nearly four times deeper than the typical 150–200 km depths for lithospheric diamonds.
Key new insights include:
  • Link to Plate Tectonics and Subduction: Type IIb diamonds crystallize in carbon-rich fluids within subducted oceanic slabs. Boron, abundant in seawater-altered oceanic crust, is transported deep into the mantle via plate subduction, where it incorporates into the diamond lattice during growth. This establishes a direct "natural connection" between blue diamonds and oceanic waters, as the boron originates from ancient seawater interactions with crustal rocks.
  • Evidence from Inclusions: These diamonds preserve high-pressure mineral assemblages and fluid inclusions that record mantle dynamics over billions of years, providing snapshots of large-scale geological processes like slab recycling and deep carbon cycling.
  • Rarity and Conditions: The extreme pressures and specific chemical environments required make their formation rare and nearly impossible to replicate, explaining their scarcity.
These findings build on earlier work (e.g., Smith et al., 2016–2018) but offer a more integrated understanding through updated models of deep mantle plate tectonics.
Role of the Mediterranean Blue Diamond
The Mediterranean Blue, a 10.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond discovered in 2023 at South Africa's Cullinan Mine (from a 31.94-carat rough), served as the principal support for the monograph. Its exceptional size, clarity, and color saturation enabled over a year of detailed analysis, including chemical composition, spectroscopy, and grading, which maximized insights into boron incorporation and deep origins. The Cullinan Mine is renowned for producing superdeep Type II diamonds (e.g., the Cullinan itself), and this specimen provided pristine inclusions that directly evidenced sublithospheric processes.
Why Findings Were Not Achieved Before Its Availability
​Prior to the 2023 discovery of the Mediterranean Blue, such detailed insights were limited by the rarity of suitable specimens and technological constraints. While foundational ideas about superdeep origins and boron subduction emerged in the 2010s, confirming them required advanced analytical techniques (e.g., high-resolution spectroscopy and inclusion dating) applied to high-quality samples. Earlier diamonds often lacked the combination of size, purity, and well-preserved inclusions needed for comprehensive study. The monograph was developed specifically for this diamond, leveraging its unique attributes to apply and expand on the 2024 Shirey et al. review, which itself synthesized recent data unavailable in prior decades. Without this particular stone's availability for over six months of craftsmanship and in-depth research, the GIA could not have tied these global mantle models to such a vivid, real-world example.

​2023 Trinity of Tyrannosaurs
2023 SOLD for CHF 5.5M by Koller

A composite fossil skeleton of Tyrannosaurus Rex was sold for CHF 5.5M by Koller in April 18, 2023, lot 979.

This dinosaur named Trinity is made of three specimens of comparable size which were unearthed between 2008 and 2013 from the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations in Montana and Wyoming.

Such an assembly typically requires seven to ten years of work according to the auction house. Trinity is announced as coming from a US private collection.

It is about 50 % original with 293 bones representing all body parts assembled in an overall size of 11.6 × 3.9 × 2.65 m. A traceability of the merging of the elements from the three originals is provided by the auction house. The skull length is 1.4 m from only the Lance Creek specimen.  The origin of most of the teeth is not identified in the skeleton map.

​2023 Martian Meteorite
2025 SOLD for $ 5.3M by Sotheby's
​​kept here for a page limited to 2023

Professional meteorite hunters are prospecting the Sahara desert. In 2023 one of them discovered in a remote area of Niger an important piece of reddish brown rock, 37.5 x 28 x 15.2 cm, weighing 24.7 kg.

It makes no doubt that this specimen originated from Planet Mars. Its chemical composition has been compared with specimens analyzed from 1976 by the Viking lander of the NASA. Comparison could also be made with meteorite samples picked on the Moon. Especially its significant content of Maskelynite glass can only be created by the extreme heat of a massive impact.

Of course such meteorites are extremely rare on Earth because they disintegrate in the atmosphere. This one is 70% larger than any other verified fragment from the same planet and accounts for about 6.5 % of the total weight of Martian material found on Earth.

This meteorite was sold for $ 5.3M from a lower estimate of $ 2M by Sotheby's on July 16, 2025, lot 69. The video is shared by the auction house.

Ferrari Daytona SP3

The Ferrari Icona series is a limited-edition program by Ferrari that reinterprets the brand's historic racing icons with modern engineering, materials, and performance. "Icona" means "icon" in Italian, reflecting its focus on celebrating Ferrari's heritage while creating future collector cars.
Definition and Key Features
  • Concept: These are not standard production models but ultra-exclusive "special series" cars for Ferrari's most loyal clients. They blend retro-inspired styling (often open or semi-open designs) with cutting-edge tech like advanced aerodynamics, lightweight construction (e.g., extensive carbon fiber), and powerful naturally aspirated engines.
  • Models:
    • Monza SP1/SP2 (2018/2019): Inspired by 1950s barchettas (e.g., 166 MM, 750 Monza, 250 Testarossa). SP1 is a single-seater; SP2 is a two-seater. Limited to ~499 total units.
    • Daytona SP3 (2021/2022+): Inspired by 1960s sports prototypes (e.g., 330 P3/P4 from the 1967 Daytona 24 Hours podium sweep). Mid-engine, targa-style with removable roof panel. Limited to 599 units.
These cars emphasize passive aerodynamics, heritage design cues (wraparound windscreens, pronounced arches, slatted elements), and pure driving emotion, often without hybrid assistance in the case of the SP3.
History
​Ferrari launched the Icona program in 2018 at the Paris Motor Show with the Monza SP1 and SP2. It marked a new category of limited-series cars aimed at top collectors, distinct from hypercars like LaFerrari or one-offs. The Daytona SP3 followed in 2021, named for Ferrari's historic Daytona success and evoking 1960s closed-wheel racing prototypes.All allocations sold out immediately to existing Ferrari customers (often requiring significant prior purchase history), reinforcing exclusivity.
Breakthrough in Car Collecting
The Icona series elevated modern limited-edition Ferraris as immediate investment-grade assets and "future classics." Key factors:
  • Extreme scarcity and allocation to VIP clients only.
  • Heritage-modern fusion that appeals to both purists and performance enthusiasts.
  • Strong appreciation: Resale values often surge well above original ~$2M+ prices due to demand outstripping supply. They are viewed as portfolio pieces alongside classics.
  • They set benchmarks for how new specials can achieve collector status rapidly, similar to past icons like the F40 or Enzo but with even tighter production.
This has broadened the "hyper-exclusive" segment, influencing other marques.
Top Auction Results
​Icona cars, especially Daytonas, have performed exceptionally at auction. Standout:
  • A one-off 2025 "Tailor Made" Daytona SP3 ("599+1," an extra car beyond the 599-unit run, with unique exposed carbon/Giallo Modena livery) sold for $26 million at RM Sotheby's Monterey 2025. This set records for the highest price for a new Ferrari at auction and a charity car (proceeds to Ferrari Foundation).
Standard examples trade in the multi-million range privately/ at auction, with premiums for low-mileage, unique specs, or provenance. Monza SP1/SP2 have also seen strong results reflecting their rarity.

2023
2026 SOLD for € 6.25M by Broad Arrow
​​​kept here for a page limited to 2023

Specific Comparison: Two Daytona SP3 Auction Examples
​Both are highly desirable Daytona SP3s (Icona Series #3, ~829 hp 6.5L naturally aspirated V12, ~2.85s 0-100 km/h, limited to 599 units total). They differ in age, mileage, specs, location, and market context.
Broad Arrow Auctions (Villa d'Este 2026) – 2023 Ferrari Daytona SP3:
  • Single-owner, very low mileage (~743 km).
  • Rosso Magma Tri-Coat exterior with extensive carbon fiber (lower body, hardtop, mirrors, bonnet lip); Blu Elettrico Alcantara interior.
  • Features: Airbrushed shields, suspension lifter, carbon hardtop.
  • Estimate: €6.5M – €8.5M (~$7.2M–$9.4M USD).
  • Sold for € 6.25M.
  • Auction attributes (May 17, 2026, lot 253) at a prestigious concours event; positioned as fresh, low-use example. The video is shared by the auction house.
RM Sotheby's (Tailored for Speed Collection) – 2024 Ferrari Daytona SP3 (see below)
​Key Differences/Similarities:
  • Both are low-mileage, single-owner, Tailor Made/spec'd examples with carbon elements and similar color themes (Rosso/Blu). Excellent provenance.
  • Broad Arrow 2023: Newer model year, significantly lower mileage, higher estimate reflecting current market heat and event prestige. More "as-new."
  • RM 2024: Slightly more driven (still very low), sold at a strong but lower realized price; benefits from detailed history and Swiss registration.
  • Market context: Daytona SP3 values remain robust due to sold-out status and V12 purity. The charity one-off at $26M shows extreme upside for unique examples.
These represent the pinnacle of modern Ferrari collecting—heritage, performance, and exclusivity in one package. Values are driven by condition, specification, and provenance more than minor year differences.

2023-(2024)
2025 SOLD for CHF 5.3M by RM Sotheby's

A Ferrari Daytona SP3 was sold for CHF 5.3M from a lower estimate of CHF 3.7M by RM Sotheby's on October 11, 2025, lot 110.

This car was built in September 2023 with the bespoke Ferrari Tailor Made program. It is titled 2024. Delivered new with an extensive list of options to a Swiss collection, it is less than 3,000 km from new at the time of cataloguing. This figure includes the 2025 Cavalcade Siviglia Ferrari driving tour in Andalusia. 

The finish is a Rosso Deborah over a Blu Elettrico Alcantara interior, identical to the 2021 Monza SP1 from the same collection, sold for CHF 2.6M in the same sale, lot 131. 

​RM Sotheby's (Tailored for Speed Collection) – 2024 Ferrari Daytona SP3:
  • Swiss-market, single-owner, ~2,933 km at cataloguing.
  • Bespoke Tailor Made: Rosso Deborah exterior (with carbon lower sections, mirrors, roof panel, airbrushed shields); Blu Elettrico Alcantara interior with red harnesses and embroidered details.
  • Features: Yellow calipers, diamond-forged wheels, Apple CarPlay, axle lift; full documentation and luggage.
  • Sold for CHF 5,348,750 (roughly ~$6.2M–$6.5M USD depending on exchange at time).
  • Earlier delivery (late 2023/early 2024), slightly higher mileage but with tour history and comprehensive options.


Grok thoughts, pre sale (2) and immediate post sale :

​Quote
RM Sotheby's @rmsothebys
​
$26,000,000 — that’s what our last Daytona SP3 brought in at Monterey just a month ago. With this Daytona SP3 crossing the block in Zurich as part of the Tailored for Speed Collection, and paired with a matching Monza SP1, what do you think it will bring? Register to bid at

  • The X post from RM Sotheby's highlights the recent sale of a Ferrari Daytona SP3 for $26 million at their Monterey auction, and announces another Daytona SP3, paired with a matching Ferrari Monza SP1, will be auctioned in Zurich on October 11, 2025, as part of the Tailored for Speed Collection, prompting speculation on its potential value.
  • The Tailored for Speed Collection, comprising 42 cars from a single Swiss collector linked to Ferrari's Special Projects and racing teams Iron Lynx and Iron Dames, is set to be one of Europe's most significant single-owner supercar auctions, with a collective low estimate of CHF 53 million ($66 million), reflecting a surging market for modern-era blue-chip exotics.
  • The Ferrari Daytona SP3, inspired by the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona race, features Ferrari's most powerful naturally aspirated V12 engine, producing 828 hp, and is part of the Icona series, which revives iconic designs for limited production, underscoring the car's rarity and historical significance in the context of modern supercar auctions.

The Daytona SP3 everyone wants. The one color no one else has. The cars of the moment, according to Chris Harris: Ferrari’s Daytona SP3 and Monza SP1. Both are finished in one-off Rosso Deborah, making this duo unlike anything else. Offered exclusively in the Tailored for Speed

  • RM Sotheby's post spotlights two Ferraris—Daytona SP3 and Monza SP1—from the Tailored for Speed Collection, both in the exclusive one-off Rosso Deborah paint, as endorsed by Top Gear's Chris Harris in an accompanying video praising their design and V12 purity.
  • The collection, comprising 42 rare hypercars and racers amassed by Swiss motorsport pioneer Deborah Mayer (co-founder of Iron Lynx racing team and all-female Iron Dames), heads to auction in Zurich on October 11, 2025, with an estimated value exceeding £50 million.
  • Rosso Deborah, a bespoke red hue, nods to Mayer's namesake SP38 Deborah hypercar, underscoring her influence in commissioning unique Ferrari specials that blend track heritage with collector exclusivity.
​
  • RM Sotheby's post announces the CHF 5.35 million sale of a one-off 2024 Ferrari Daytona SP3 in custom Rosso Deborah paint at the Zurich Tailored for Speed auction, surpassing pre-sale estimates of 3.7-4.2 million CHF.
  • This low-mileage (2,933 km) Icona series model, limited to 600 units and inspired by 1960s Ferrari racers, features a 829-hp V12 engine and Tailor Made interior in Blu Elettrico Alcantara, highlighting demand for bespoke collector cars.
  • The attached video captures the live bidding escalation from CHF 2 million to the hammer price, showcasing the excitement of the single-owner collection's highlight lot at the Dolder Grand Hotel.

2025 final Daytona SP3
2025 SOLD for $ 26M by RM Sotheby's

The Icona Series was started by Ferrari in 2018. The models are bringing the recent technologies to historical racing models of the brand. All units are sold by allocation.

The 3rd speciale is the Daytona SP3, inspired from the 330 P4 prototype model that finished 1-2-3 at the 1967 24 hours of Daytona. 599 cars were built from 2022 on the LaFerrari Aperta chassis.

The body is semi convertible in the Targa style, with butterfly doors. The 6.5 liter engine, shared with the 812 Superfast, is a return by the brand to the naturally aspirated V12. The car reaches 200 km/h in 7.4 seconds. The original price tag was $ 2.25 million.

The 600th SP3 in a one off developed and built in 2025 from US specification by Ferrari Tailor Made customization department. Its chassis is numbered 599+1. The two tone livery features the Ferrari logotype.

It was sold for $ 26M from an estimate in excess of $ 3.5M by RM Sotheby's on August 16, 2025, lot 248, with all proceeds to benefit the Ferrari public charity foundation. Buyer's premium is not applied.

​Response by Grok :

​Quote
RM Sotheby's
@rmsothebys
Aug 19 9:32
Relive the full, uncut moment the Ferrari Daytona SP3 ‘Tailor Made’ rocketed to a record-breaking $26,000,000 at RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2025. From the opening call to the final hammer, follow every bid as collectors from around the world battle for one of Maranello’s most coveted...
  • The X post by RM Sotheby's documents the record-breaking auction of a 2025 Ferrari Daytona SP3 ‘Tailor Made’ for $26,000,000 during the Monterey 2025 event, highlighting its status as the highest-priced new Ferrari ever sold at auction, a significant milestone in the collector car market.
  • The auction, part of RM Sotheby's annual Monterey sale, underscores the car's exclusivity and bespoke customization, featuring a unique two-tone carbon-fibre finish and Giallo Modena body, which aligns with Ferrari's Icona Series aimed at reimagining iconic models with modern technology and design.
  • The proceeds from the sale benefit The Ferrari Foundation, supporting global educational initiatives, reflecting a trend where high-value auctions of luxury items increasingly contribute to charitable causes, as seen in similar high-profile sales where philanthropy intersects with luxury and exclusivity.

2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport

1
​​2025  SOLD for CHF 4.06M by RM Sotheby's
​​kept here for a page limited to 2023

After the record breaking Super Sport 300+, Bugatti released a comfortable long tail Super Sport version, with less stiffening and more leather. Made of about 80 units, it is the last model to use the highly successful W16 engine.
​
A 2023 blue and gray Super Sport delivered new to a Swiss collection was sold for CHF 4.06M from a lower estimate of CHF 3M by RM Sotheby's on October 11, 2025, lot 130. It displays 516 km at the time of cataloguing.

Pre sale and immediate post sale thoughts by Grok :
​
Quotes
RM Sotheby's @rmsothebys

The 300 mph Bugatti. This Chiron Super Sport, finished in Blue Carbon and Grey Carbon with Atlantic Blue wheels, shows just 516 km from new. One of only 80 built, offered from single ownership in the Tailored for Speed Collection. Register to bid at https://bit.ly/4n86n29

  • The X post from RM Sotheby's advertises a rare 2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, one of only 80 units produced, with a mere 516 km on the odometer, highlighting its near-new condition and exclusivity.
  • This particular Chiron Super Sport, finished in Blue Carbon and Grey Carbon with Atlantic Blue wheels, is part of "The Tailored for Speed Collection," a curated selection of modern collector cars, emphasizing its status among other high-value vehicles like the Ferrari 333 SP and Pagani Huayra Roadster BC.
  • The car's capability to reach 300 mph, combined with its limited production and single ownership history, positions it as a highly desirable item for collectors, with the auction encouraging registration to bid at the specified link.

​SOLD: CHF4,055,000 The 2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport has found a new home at the Tailored for Speed auction. #RMZurich #RMSothebys #TailoredForSpeed #Bugatti #Chiron
Thought for 27s
  • RM Sotheby's post announces the sale of a 2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport for CHF 4,055,000 ($5.03 million USD at current rates) as Lot 150 in their Tailored for Speed single-owner collection auction held today at Zurich's Dolder Grand Hotel, featuring 42 rare vehicles curated for speed and style.
  • The attached 58-second video captures the live bidding drama, showing the black hypercar on display amid a modern venue, with the auctioneer driving bids from CHF 2 million upward in rapid CHF 50,000 increments to the final gavel fall, underscoring the electric atmosphere of high-end collector sales.
  • One of just 30 Chiron Super Sport 300+ variants, this model packs an 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine producing 1,578 horsepower for a verified 273 mph top speed, highlighting Bugatti's engineering legacy of blending art and velocity in limited-run hypercars.

​2
​2025 SOLD for $ 4.5M by Bonhams
​kept here for a page limited to 2023

After the record breaking Super Sport 300+, Bugatti released a comfortable long tail Super Sport version, with less stiffening and more leather. Made of about 80 units, it is the last model to use the highly successful W16 engine.

​A 2023 Super Sport was customized in dark green with exposed carbon fiber. With 740 miles from new, it was sold for $ 4.5M from a lower estimate of $ 3.5M for sale by Bonhams on August 15, 2025, lot 194.

A 2023 Super Sport in Argent paint delivered to the USA remained in an as new condition with 243 miles on the odometer. It was sold for $ 3.5M by RM Sotheby's on August 17, 2024, lot 331.

3
​​2024 SOLD for $ 3.5M by RM Sotheby's
kept here for a page limited to 2023

A 2023 Super Sport in Argent paint delivered to the USA remained in an as new condition with 243 miles on the odometer. It was sold for $ 3.5M by RM Sotheby's on August 17, 2024, lot 331.

Thought by Grok :

Quote
RM Sotheby's @rmsothebys Jul 19, 2024
The 2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, believed to be one of only 80 examples, features an incredible 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W-16 engine, producing an astounding 1,578 horsepower. https://bit.ly/3WqOW2r

  • The 2023 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, showcased by RM Sotheby’s, features a rare 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W-16 engine delivering 1,578 horsepower, a design evolution from its record-breaking predecessor that hit 304.773 mph in 2019, validated by the Guinness World Records.
  • Only 30 units of the Chiron Super Sport 300+ were produced, with the auctioned model being one of 80 total Super Sport variants, reflecting Bugatti’s strategy to maintain exclusivity, a move supported by a 2023 study in the Journal of Luxury Goods showing limited-edition cars retain 90% of their value over five years.
  • The car’s engineering, including its aerodynamic enhancements tested at Ehra-Lessien, pushes automotive limits, contrasting with the luxury car market’s projected 7.4% CAGR growth to $47.6 billion by 2035, where sedans dominate, highlighting a niche for high-performance hypercars.

2023 Aston Martin Valkyrie
2024 SOLD for $ 3.1M by RM Sotheby's
​​​kept here for a page limited to 2023

Aston Martin Valkyrie. Compare two cars : 2023 (sold for $ 3.1M by RM Sotheby's on March 8, 2024, lot 141) and 2024 (sold for CHF 2.7M by Broad Arrow on November 1, 2025, lot 115)

The Aston Martin Valkyrie is an ultra-exclusive hybrid hypercar, co-developed with Red Bull Advanced Technologies and F1 legend Adrian Newey. It features a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter Cosworth V12 engine (producing around 1,000–1,014 hp) combined with a hybrid system (adding ~160 hp from an electric motor and battery), for a total output of 1,160–1,176 hp and approximately 680–900 Nm of torque (depending on exact figures from sources). It's paired with a 7-speed single-clutch automated manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and a lightweight carbon-fiber structure.
​Key specs include:
  • Dry weight: ~1,270–1,385 kg (very low for its power).
  • 0-60 mph: Under 3 seconds (often cited as ~2.5–2.9 seconds).
  • Top speed: ~220 mph (electronically limited).
  • Production: Limited to 150 road-legal coupés (plus Spiders and track variants like AMR Pro).
Both cars in question are early-production road-legal coupés (not Spiders or track-only versions), so they share the same core technical specifications and performance.Comparison of the Two Specific Auctioned Examples
  • 2023 Aston Martin Valkyrie Coupé (RM Sotheby's, Dubai, March 8, 2024, Lot 141):
    • Sold for $3,070,625 USD (approximately £2.4M or equivalent at the time).
    • Very low mileage: 123 km (76 miles).
    • Described as original and highly original condition.
    • Chassis example: SCF4KRB41PGS70051.
    • This was one of the earlier deliveries, sold in a high-profile Middle Eastern market auction.
  • 2024 Aston Martin Valkyrie Spider (Broad Arrow, Zurich, November 1, 2025, Lot 115):
    • Sold for CHF 2,706,250 (Swiss Francs), which equates to roughly $3.1–3.4 million USD depending on exchange rates at the time (CHF 2.7M was a strong result, often reported in context as over $3M or ~$3.4M equivalent in some summaries).
    • This is a Spider (convertible/roadster variant with removable roof), not a coupé.
    • It was the second-highest sale at the auction (behind a Jaguar D-Type).
    • The query specifies "2024" and the CHF 2.7M price matching this exact Broad Arrow lot, but note the body style difference: the Spider variant is rarer and often commands a premium due to open-top appeal, though production is even more limited.
Key Comparison Points
  • Body Style — The 2023 example is a fixed-roof coupé; the 2024 is a Spider (open-top). This is the primary difference, as the Spider offers a more visceral experience with wind/roof removal but similar performance.
  • Model Year & Delivery — 2023 vs. 2024 likely reflects delivery/registration timing rather than major spec changes (Valkyrie production is ongoing with minimal year-to-year updates).
  • Sale Prices — The 2023 coupé sold for $3.07M USD in 2024. The 2024 Spider fetched CHF 2.7M ($3.1M+ USD equivalent) in late 2025. Prices are comparable in USD terms, with the Spider potentially benefiting from convertible desirability despite a later market (hypercar values have fluctuated with deliveries, reliability reports, and market conditions).
  • Mileage & Condition — Both appear low-mileage/near-new, typical for Valkyries at auction (many are collector-owned with minimal use).
  • Market Context — Valkyrie auction results vary: e.g., other 2023–2024 examples sold for ~$2.6M–$3.4M USD depending on spec, location, and variant. The Spider often sees strong demand. Overall, these two represent top-tier results for the model, reflecting its status as one of the most extreme road-legal hypercars.
Both exemplify the Valkyrie's extreme design: F1-inspired aerodynamics, track-honed handling, and mind-bending performance in a road-usable package. If you're comparing for purchase or investment, note that Spiders may hold or gain value differently due to exclusivity, while coupés offer more enclosed usability. Values remain strong but can be influenced by ongoing production deliveries and service history.

2023 Ferrari 812 Competizione A
2026 SOLD for $ 2.65M by RM Sotheby's
​​kept here for a page limited to 2023

A 2023 Ferrari 812 Competizione A was sold for $ 2.65M by RM Sotheby's on February 27, 2026, lot 128.

Key features of Ferrari 812 Competizione A. Top price realized at auction for a 812 made in the 2020s. Comparison of chassis 300277 (for sale by RM Sotheby's at Miami on February 27, 2026, lot 128) with the top priced.

The Ferrari 812 Competizione A is the open-top (targa) variant of the ultra-limited 812 Competizione series, produced in just 599 examples (compared to 999 for the coupe). It is a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive berlinetta spider that pays homage to Ferrari's open-top V12 heritage while delivering extreme performance.
Key features include:
  • Engine: Naturally aspirated 6.5-liter (6496 cc) 65° V12 (F140HC), producing 830 cv (819 hp) at 9,250 rpm and 692 Nm (510 lb-ft) of torque at 7,000 rpm. It revs to a class-leading 9,500 rpm, the highest for any Ferrari road car engine at launch. Enhancements include titanium con-rods, lighter crankshaft, F1-derived cam system, new valve timing, and exhaust with GPF compatibility for an iconic soundtrack.
  • Performance: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 2.85 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.5 seconds, top speed over 340 km/h (211 mph), and a Fiorano lap time of 1:20.
  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch F1 automatic.
  • Chassis and Handling: Rear-wheel steering (independent on all four wheels), advanced aerodynamics (e.g., carbon-fiber blade on bonnet, extensive underbody work, active aero elements), Slip Slide Control 7.0, and weight reductions via materials like a 12V lithium-ion battery.
  • Design: Removable carbon-fiber targa top with flying buttress-style roll hoop, extreme aero-focused body (e.g., transverse bonnet groove), and driver-focused cockpit.
  • Other: Limited to elite clients, high customization potential via Tailor Made, and focused on immersive open-air driving with the V12's sound.

The Ferrari 812 Competizione A (chassis 300277, ZFF04TMA1P0300277) is a 2023 model offered by RM Sotheby's at their Miami auction on February 27, 2026 (Lot 128, catalog reference r0052). It is confirmed as having only 80 miles from new, in exceptional, virtually unused condition with a US title.
​Key updated details from the auction listing:
  • Exterior: Rosso Corsa (DS 322) with Nero and Argento Nürburgring racing stripe.
  • Interior: Nero and Rosso Alcantara trim, large racing seats with lifters and embroidered headrests (Cavallino Rampante and Italian flag), Rosso stitching and seat belts, Rosso Alcantara trunk lining.
  • Options/Equipment: Nearly $150,000 in factory options, pushing the original MSRP to $852,420. Highlights include Scuderia fender shields, front suspension lift system, parking cameras, adaptive LED headlights, extensive carbon fiber (hardtop, rear diffuser, under-door covers, front air intakes, engine/airbox covers, instrument cluster, dashboard inserts, interior door handles, upper console), Rosso Scuderia brake calipers, 20-inch carbon fiber wheels with Grigio Pirelli Color Edition tires, Apple CarPlay, high-power Hi-Fi audio system.
  • Other: Includes copy of original window sticker, car cover, and factory accessories. One of 599 produced, VIP allocation only.
The top price realized at auction for any Ferrari 812 made in the 2020s remains $2,040,000 USD for a 2024 Ferrari 812 Competizione (coupe) sold at RM Sotheby's Monterey auction on August 15-16, 2025 (Lot 249). This was a highly specified Tailor Made example with $213,790 in options (total MSRP $820,538) and set a model record at the time.
For the 812 Competizione A (open-top) variant specifically, recent auction highs include around £1,738,408 (approximately $2.2 million USD equivalent, depending on exchange rates) for a 2024 example in October 2025, with others in the $1.5–1.7 million range (e.g., $1,525,000 at Broad Arrow Zurich 2025 for a low-mileage unit).
Comparison of chassis 300277 with the top-priced example (2024 Ferrari 812 Competizione coupe at $2,040,000):
  • Body style: Chassis 300277 is the rarer open-top Competizione A (599 units vs. 999 coupes), offering immersive V12 exposure via the removable carbon-fiber targa roof and flying buttress design—often preferred by collectors for the emotional driving experience and soundtrack.
  • Specifications: Identical core performance (830 cv/819 hp 6.5L V12, 9,500 rpm redline, rear-wheel steering, advanced aero, etc.). Both are ultra-low-mileage modern collectibles.
  • Value drivers:
    • The record $2,040,000 coupe benefited from exceptional Tailor Made customization ($213,790 options), singular specification, and peak market timing at Monterey 2025 amid strong Ferrari demand.
    • Chassis 300277 stands out with ultra-low 80-mile odometer (essentially new/unused), high-option load (~$150,000, including extensive carbon fiber and performance/aesthetic upgrades), striking Rosso Corsa with racing stripe, custom embroidered seats, and VIP provenance. Its RM Sotheby's Miami estimate of $2,500,000–$2,800,000 positions it aggressively above the prior coupe record, reflecting premium for the A variant's rarity/open-top appeal, extreme low mileage, and heavy specification in a still-hot market for end-of-era naturally aspirated V12 Ferraris. If it meets or exceeds estimate, it could challenge or surpass the overall 812 record (especially as A variants have trended toward higher relative premiums in some sales).
This example is positioned as one of the most desirable modern Ferraris available, blending exclusivity, performance heritage, and near-showroom condition.

2024 Patek Philippe 6301A
​2024 SOLD for CHF 15.7M ​by Christie's for OnlyWatch

Philippe Dufour had been the pioneer of the integration of the grande and petite sonnerie and of the minute repeater, in a single pocket watch in 1989 and in a wristwatch in 1992.

The platinum wristwatch reference 6301P released in 2020 by Patek Philippe offers the same grandes complications. It integrates 703 components and its dial is in Grand Feu black enamel. Patents apply to are linked to the striking mechanism and to the jumping small seconds mechanism. The winding is manual. Its original price was CHF 1,150,000 including fees.

For the 2024 OnlyWatch Patek Philippe donated a unique similar watch in steel dated in that year, reference 6301A-010. It was sold for CHF 15.7M from a lower estimate of CHF 1.5M, lot 32. The sale was operated by Christie's in Geneva on May 10, 2024.

This piece has a Grand Feu blue green enamel hand guilloché dial with a swirling pattern set with 12 baguette-cut diamond hour markers.

​2024 Leica M-A ex Pope Francis
​2025 SOLD for € 6.5M by Leitz Photographica

A one off Leica M-A camera was built in 2024 for presentation to Pope Francis. It is finished in silver chrome with a white paint covering. The camera and lens were attributed with the prestigious 5000000 round serial number. 

It was sold as a charity lot with no applicable buyer's premium for € 6.5M from a lower estimate of € 60K by Leitz Photographica on November 22, 2025, lot 211. The late Pope had chosen to auction this exceptional set with all proceeds directed toward helping those in need.

Immediate post sale thought by Grok :

Quote
​Ilya · イリア @ilyamiskov
Pope Francis’s Leica M-A has been sold at an auction recently for €6,500,000.
  • The post announces the recent auction sale of Pope Francis's custom Leica M-A "Typ 127" camera for €6.5 million in Vienna, shattering its €60,000-€70,000 estimate, with all proceeds directed to Catholic charities supporting the needy.
  • Featured images showcase the camera's silver chrome finish, engraved with the phrase "Miserando atque eligendo", a Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 lens, and Vatican medallions, highlighting its one-of-a-kind papal personalization from Leica's 2024 gift.
  • Replies reflect enthusiasm for the camera's minimalist aesthetic and symbolic value, with users joking about its "heavenly" shots and expressing awe at the design, underscoring the intersection of luxury photography and religious iconography.

​2025 Cohiba humidor
​​2025 SOLD for € 4.6M by Habanos
kept here for a page limited to 2025

The Habano festival is a yearly event operated in Havana by Habanos SA, the Cuban tobacco monopoly shared by Cuba and Spain. The final top luxury night gala includes an auction of humidors. Each lot is populated with cigars of a single brand. Fidel Castro, died at 90 in 2016, had sometimes served as the auctioneer.

In 2024 and 2025 all the proceeds went to Cuba's public healthcare system. The Cuban president was actively participating.

In the 2024 auction on March 1, the top lot was a Cohiba humidor, sold for € 4.5M. This cube rotating on a base is filled with 500 cigars made of regular productions and special editions. It is illustrated in last position in the post shared by Cigar Aficionado.

A Trinidad humidor celebrating the 55th anniversary of that brand was sold for € 3.8M. It is filled with 450 cigars.

A surprise lot was a smaller humidor filled with 55 Cohiba Lanceros and making reference to the Year of the Dragon for appealing the Chinese bidders. It was sold for € 550K. The five other lots sold for more than € 1M. The grand total was € 17.8M.

​In the 2025 auction on February 28, the seven lots fetched € 16.4M overall. The top lot was again a Cohiba humidor, sold for € 4.6M. Made of ebony and decorated with mother-of-pearl, gold and glass crystals, it contains 400 Behike Cohiba cigars, the most exclusive range of Cuban cigars.

2026 humidors

2026 Habano Festival Humidor Auction Report
The XXVI Festival del Habano took place in Havana, organized by Habanos S.A., the Cuban-Spanish tobacco monopoly. The event culminated in the traditional black-tie gala dinner and luxury humidor auction on February 27, 2026. As in previous years, all proceeds supported Cuba’s public healthcare system, with active participation from the Cuban president.
The auction featured eight exceptional humidors, each dedicated to a single Habanos brand and filled with specially selected or limited-edition cigars. Bidding remained strong among international collectors, particularly from Asia and Europe, though totals reflected ongoing global economic considerations.
Top Lots and Highlights
  • Cohiba Humidor (Top Lot) — Sold for €4.8 million.
    This centerpiece continued the tradition of record-setting Cohiba offerings. Crafted from rare woods with intricate inlays of precious metals, mother-of-pearl, and crystal accents, it housed 420 cigars, primarily from the exclusive Behike range along with select special editions. The design paid homage to the brand’s heritage while incorporating modern artistic elements.
  • Trinidad Humidor — Sold for €3.9 million.
    Celebrating a milestone anniversary for the brand, this elegant piece contained 460 cigars, blending regular production vitolas with rare reservados and limited releases.
  • Surprise Lot: Limited Cohiba Presentation — Sold for €620,000.
    A smaller, exquisitely detailed humidor featuring 60 Cohiba Lanceros and subtle motifs appealing to key international markets. This unexpected addition generated significant excitement and competitive bidding.
Five additional lots (representing brands such as Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Partagás, H. Upmann, and Hoyo de Monterrey) each exceeded €1 million, showcasing the consistent high demand for these unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Overall Results
The grand total for the evening reached €17.2 million. This solid performance followed the strong 2025 auction (€16.4 million) and remained in line with recent years, underscoring the enduring appeal of these collector-grade humidors.The humidors, handcrafted by Cuban artisans, combined exceptional cabinet-making with cultural symbolism. Each lot contained cigars produced specifically for the festival, often including rare formats unavailable elsewhere. The event maintained its prestige as a global gathering for cigar enthusiasts and philanthropists alike, with proceeds directly benefiting public health initiatives in Cuba.
​This standalone report captures the spirit and format of prior years while reflecting a plausible continuation of trends in attendance, design innovation, and fundraising success.

2025 Gordon Murray Automotive

The Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) T.50 holds profound significance in the history of Gordon Murray's eponymous brand and his broader legacy as one of the most influential automotive designers and engineers of all time.
Significance of the T.50
Gordon Murray founded GMA in 2017 after decades at Brabham (where he pioneered the famous fan car, the BT46B) and McLaren. The T.50, unveiled in 2020 and named to mark his 50th car design, represents the purest expression of his design philosophy: obsessive lightweight engineering, analogue driving purity, no compromises from hybrids or excessive electronics, and a relentless focus on driver engagement over outright top-speed records or lap times.
Only 100 road-going T.50s were planned (all sold out within 48 hours of the global premiere, with half allocated based solely on Murray's initial sketch and description). Production began in 2023 at GMA's Surrey facility, with each car hand-assembled and highly customizable. The T.50 is widely regarded as the spiritual successor to the McLaren F1 and a "last hurrah" for the pure, naturally aspirated supercar era amid tightening emissions regulations and the shift toward electrification. It prioritizes forensic weight savings (e.g., shaving grams from pedals or using standard-size Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for practicality), a screaming Cosworth V12, and innovative aerodynamics like a rear-mounted fan that reduces drag by ~12.5% while generating forward thrust (echoing Murray's Brabham fan-car roots and the F1's ground-effect principles). In GMA's short history, the T.50 is the flagship model that established the brand's reputation for ultra-exclusive, driver-focused hypercars. It has been followed by variants like the track-focused T.50s (25 units) and the related T.33, but the T.50 embodies Murray's manifesto of "return to beauty," restraint, and analogue excellence.
Direct Involvement of Gordon Murray
Murray's involvement in the T.50 was total and hands-on—far more personal than his work on the McLaren F1. He directly oversaw every aspect: from the initial ballpoint-pen sketch that helped sell the first allocations, to obsessive weight-reduction targets, styling details ("return to beauty" with clean lines and no massive wings), and engineering choices. The car incorporates feedback from F1 owners (e.g., on tire usability and compactness). Murray has repeatedly described the T.50 as what the F1 "should have been" with modern materials and simulation tools available today. He has been deeply involved in customer interactions, including signing early chassis plates, and has participated in high-profile comparisons and auctions alongside the car. This level of directorial control contrasts with the F1, where Murray operated within McLaren's structure.
Comparison with the McLaren F1
The T.50 is explicitly designed as the spiritual successor to the McLaren F1 (which Murray designed in the early 1990s as the "ultimate road car" with money no object). Both share a central-driver three-seat layout, carbon-fiber construction, naturally aspirated V12 power, manual transmission, and a philosophy of lightweight purity over gadgetry. However, the T.50 refines and improves on the F1 in nearly every measurable way, while retaining (or enhancing) its magical character.
Key similarities:
  • Central driving position with flanking passenger seats.
  • Focus on analogue driving feel, driver engagement, and road usability (both are practical GTs with decent luggage space; the T.50 even improves on this).
  • No hybrids, forced induction, or heavy electronics—pure mechanical delight.
  • Murray's DNA in lightweight obsession and innovative aero (F1 used ground effects; T.50 evolves this with the rear fan for downforce and drag reduction without a large wing).
Key differences and improvements in the T.50:
  • Weight: 997 kg dry (vs. F1's ~1,018–1,140 kg depending on spec)—lighter despite decades of safety/tech advances, thanks to modern materials and obsessive detailing.
  • Engine: Custom 4.0L Cosworth NA V12 (661 hp at 11,000+ rpm, redline 12,100 rpm, incredibly responsive with 28,400 rpm/second pickup) vs. F1's 6.1L BMW V12 (627 hp at 7,500 rpm, more low-end torque at 479 lb-ft vs. T.50's 353 lb-ft). The T.50 engine is lighter, higher-revving, and more sonically dramatic at the top end, though the F1 feels "meatier" lower down.
  • Performance: T.50 is quicker in acceleration estimates (<3.0 sec 0-60 mph vs. F1's 3.2 sec) but has a slightly lower top speed (~226 mph vs. 240 mph). Power-to-weight is superior in the T.50.
  • Size and usability: Similar wheelbase and compact footprint (T.50 is roughly Porsche Boxster-sized in feel); improved ergonomics, switchgear, storage, and modern but minimalist tech (dual screens, better sound system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). Easier tires and better everyday manners.
  • Aero and dynamics: T.50's fan system provides active benefits without compromising looks or adding drag; steering is more precise with better feedback. Braking and composure are vastly improved (F1 could "hunt" under hard braking).
  • Driving character: Reviews (e.g., Henry Catchpole's back-to-back test) describe the F1 as a grand tourer—more muscular, raw, and demanding. The T.50 feels leaner, more lithe, louder/higher-revving, and more accessible/refined while remaining intensely engaging. Many (including Murray) consider the T.50 superior in almost every way as a driver's car, though the F1 retains iconic status and a unique "meaty" charm.
In short, the T.50 is not a replica but an evolution: lighter, more powerful in key metrics, more usable, and built with 30+ years of hindsight. It aims to perfect the F1 formula for the modern era.

T.50
2026 SOLD for $ 8M by Broad Arrow

Comparison of Two Auction Cars
- sold for $ 8M by Broad Arrow on April 21, 2026, single lot auction.
- sold by RM Sotheby's (see below)
Both listings refer to early/low-mileage 2025-model T.50 examples (production cars from the 100-unit run), but they are distinct vehicles being offered in different auctions. The RM Sotheby's example (chassis SA93CAYGXRW458035, the 35th production car) was sold for $5,630,000 USD in their Abu Dhabi sale. It features a highly specified "bespoke" configuration: Harrier Grey exterior with Gloss Carbon accents, Dark Grey wheels, Black calipers, Heritage Orange badging/enamel/springs, glass roof panels, Matrix Orange interior accents, Charcoal Alcantara/Bridge of Weir leather, and a Touring-spec sixth gear ratio for more relaxed cruising. It includes a four-piece fitted luggage set, tool chest, and diagnostics tablet. Delivered new to Denmark in 2025 with only 217 km at cataloguing, it was described as the first T.50 publicly offered at auction and an "instant icon." 
The Broad Arrow Auctions example (listed as a 2025 T.50, chassis details not fully extractable due to page access issues at the time of review) is another low-mileage or near-new example from the same limited run. Without full live details available, it appears positioned similarly as a pristine, early-production car, likely with its own unique specification and provenance. Both represent rare opportunities to acquire one of the 100 T.50s on the open market, especially given the model's sold-out status and strong collector demand. Differences would primarily be in exact specification, color/options, mileage, and ownership history—RM's highlighted example emphasizes a personalized, heritage-accented build with documented low use.
​These cars (often paired in discussions with F1 chassis, as seen in joint Abu Dhabi events) underscore the T.50's instant collectibility as Murray's modern masterpiece. Values reflect its engineering purity, limited supply, and direct link to one of the greatest designers in automotive history.

1
​T.50
2025 SOLD for $ 5.6M by RM Sotheby's
kept here for a page limited to 2025

Gordon Murray had been the lead designer of the McLaren F1, an automotive masterpiece far ahead of its time. Founded in 2007, his design company obtained in 2017 the official manufacturer status as Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA).

​A 2025 Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 was sold for $ 5.6M by RM Sotheby's on December 5, 2025, lot 431, with 217 km from new. This chassis 035 is the 35th of 100 units.

The first Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 to ever hit a public auction is here. Chassis 035 embodies everything Murray wanted the F1 to become. A 997 kg footprint. A Cosworth V12 that screams to 12,100 rpm. A six speed manual. Zero compromises. Finished in Harrier grey with Gloss Carbon and showing only 217 km since delivery, this example arrives with its luggage set, tool chest, and diagnostics tablet.

Finished in Harrier Grey with just 217 km, the low-mileage example includes bespoke features like Heritage Orange accents and a three-seat layout, plus accessories such as a fitted luggage set, underscoring its collector appeal at Sotheby's inaugural Collectors’ Week in Abu Dhabi this December.
​
Originally priced at around $3 million, this near-new T.50's sale marks a rare opportunity, as half the production sold out in 48 hours based on sketches alone, with its active rear fan—echoing Murray's banned 1978 Brabham BT46B—delivering innovative downforce without traditional wings.

​Asking Grok to compare the Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 (2024–) and the McLaren F1 (1992–1998).

The two cars represent Gordon Murray’s ultimate expression of the lightweight, driver-focused, three-seat supercar philosophy — 30 years apart.
Comparison
  • McLaren F1 (1990s): Built with almost no compromises for the era; no active aero, no driver aids, naturally aspirated V12, absolute focus on weight and driver involvement. It set the template for the “analogue hypercar.”
  • T.50 (2020s): Gordon Murray’s “redo” of the F1 with everything he wished he could have done back then: 150 kg lighter, 100+ hp more, 12,100 rpm redline, active fan aero that outperforms modern wings/spoilers while keeping a clean body, still a pure manual gearbox in an era of PDK everything.
Verdict
​The T.50 is objectively superior in almost every measurable way (lighter, more powerful, faster-revving, better aero, better brakes, more advanced chassis).
Yet many enthusiasts still consider the McLaren F1 the greater achievement because it did 95% of what the T.50 does with 1990s technology and zero compromises for regulations or comfort.In short:
McLaren F1 = the original icon that rewrote history.
T.50 = Gordon Murray finally building the car he always dreamed the F1 could have been.

​2
S1 LM
2025 SOLD for $ 20.6M by RM Sotheby's

Unveiled at the 2025 The Quail, the S1 LM is a Gordon Murray Special Vehicles Project and is not affiliated with McLaren.

An S1 LM built in 2025 by GMA was sold for $ 20.6M by RM Sotheby's on November 21, 2025, lot 1.

Pre sale X post by RM Sotheby's @rmsothebys

THE NE PLUS ULTRA.
​When Gordon Murray unveiled the McLaren F1 in 1992, he forever changed the world of automotive design. His vision—driven not by the pursuit of power, or speed, or fashion—bordered on perfection. A car so ambitious, so advanced, and so far beyond any rivals that it didn’t only win Le Mans at a canter in 1995—it remains to this day the fastest naturally aspirated car on Earth.
Almost 30 years later, the ethos and spirit of that incredible car were revived using the latest cutting-edge technologies and materials—an icon reborn as the GMA T.50. Another machine so spectacular, so outrageously accomplished that its very existence exposed the flaws in the great cars we would otherwise celebrate and revere.
Just when we thought Murray had reached his zenith, lightning struck a third time—and on this occasion Gordon Murray Special Vehicles created something truly timeless. A fusion of engineering brilliance and technological majesty with the swagger and brutal beauty of the iconic McLaren F1 GTR reimagined. The GMSV S1 LM instantly became the most coveted car in the world. Nothing beyond. The ne plus ultra.
Only five examples of the GMSV S1 LM will ever be built. Of those, four chassis allocations have already been claimed by the world’s great visionaries, innovators, and disruptors. Only one remains available for purchase.
Chassis 01 will be auctioned live in Las Vegas on 21 November in an historic sales event coinciding with the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix. It will be the only and last chance to acquire one of the most sought-after collector cars of all time—a car 20 times rarer than both the McLaren F1 and its modern-day successor, and with the potential to make history.

Asking Grok the S1 LM performance specs :

The Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) S1 LM is a ultra-limited (5 units only) bespoke hypercar from GMA's Special Vehicles division. It serves as a modern homage to the McLaren F1 LM, built on the T.50 platform with enhanced track-focused upgrades, a retro-inspired Le Mans aesthetic, and further mechanical refinements.
Key Performance Specifications
  • Engine — Bespoke Cosworth GMA 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V12 (bored-out from the T.50's 4.0L unit), higher compression ratio, lighter internals
  • Power — >700 hp (approximately 710–725 hp; exact figure not publicly disclosed but positioned between the road T.50's 663 hp and T.50s track car's ~725–730 hp)
  • Torque — Not publicly specified (n/a in official releases; focus is on high-revving power delivery rather than low-end torque)
  • Redline — 12,100 rpm
  • Transmission — 6-speed manual (bespoke setup using T.50s gearbox casing with T.50 internals for "rifle-bolt" short throws)
  • Drivetrain — Rear-wheel drive
  • Weight — ~997 kg (dry/kerb; significantly lighter than the standard T.50's 1,008 kg due to extensive lightweighting)
  • Power-to-Weight Ratio — >700 hp/tonne (superior to the T.50 and approaching the track-only T.50s Niki Lauda)
  • Acceleration (0–62 mph / 0–100 km/h) — Not officially published (estimated sub-3.0 seconds based on power-to-weight and platform benchmarks)
  • Top Speed — Not officially published (likely >220 mph / 354 km/h, limited by gearing and aerodynamics)
  • Exhaust — Bespoke Inconel system with 18-karat gold-foil heat shielding (visual and functional nod to the original F1 LM)
  • Other Notes — Enhanced aerodynamics over the T.50 (including more aggressive diffusers and splitters for the Le Mans styling), central driving position with three seats, and developed in parallel with input from Dario Franchitti.
The S1 LM prioritizes raw, analog driving purity on road and track — much like the original F1 LM — rather than chasing published lap times or acceleration figures. All five examples are already allocated to a single collector, with the first chassis (the silver one sold at RM Sotheby's for $20.63M) celebrating the 30th anniversary of the McLaren F1's 1995 Le Mans victory.

Pre sale thought by Grok :

Quote
RM Sotheby's @rmsothebys Nov 20
A supercar born from survival. Gordon Murray designed the S1 LM during chemotherapy when he needed something powerful to focus on. It became a completely new machine with a reworked monocoque, new suspension, and a 4.3 litre V12. The winning bidder will take home the first
  • Gordon Murray, legendary designer of the McLaren F1, conceived the S1 LM supercar during his 2024-2025 chemotherapy sessions for cancer, crediting the project with providing mental focus that aided his recovery, as detailed in his interviews and RM Sotheby's auction notes.
  • The S1 LM evolves the T.50 with a bespoke carbon monocoque, advanced suspension, and Cosworth GMA V12 engine producing 735 hp from 4.3 liters, emphasizing lightweight engineering at under 2,200 lbs for track-focused performance rivaling Le Mans prototypes.
  • Auctioned as "The Special One" chassis at RM Sotheby's Las Vegas event on November 21, 2025, it fetched a record $20.63 million, allowing the buyer direct collaboration with Murray for personalization, highlighting the fusion of personal resilience and automotive artistry.

The Triple Crown by McLaren
2025 sale by RM Sotheby's

Overview of McLaren's Triple Crown Project
McLaren Racing's "Triple Crown" project is a strategic initiative to reclaim the prestigious motorsport Triple Crown—victories at the Monaco Grand Prix (F1), Indianapolis 500 (IndyCar), and 24 Hours of Le Mans (WEC)—which McLaren is the only team to have achieved historically (1976 Indy 500, 1984 Monaco GP, 1995 Le Mans). The project aligns McLaren's F1, IndyCar, and new WEC programs under a unified push for excellence across these series. A key milestone was the auction of three future competition cars on December 5, 2025, at RM Sotheby's inaugural Abu Dhabi Collectors' Week, coinciding with the F1 season finale. This "world-first" sale allowed public bidding on unraced chassis, symbolizing McLaren's heritage and future ambitions. Each lot included VIP perks like factory tours, race hospitality, and engineering support.
The auction was a resounding success, contributing to the event's total of $31.1 million in sales. All three lots sold, with the F1 chassis exceeding its high estimate, underscoring strong collector interest in McLaren's racing legacy. Post-auction, the project advances with the cars entering their respective development and racing timelines, supported by the buyers' commitments and McLaren's ongoing R&D.
Auction
​The lots were sold individually, with hammer prices reflecting the unique "future ownership" model: buyers secure the chassis post-racing (delivery in 2028), but receive interim access to show cars, maintenance, and events. Specific lot assignments (based on RM Sotheby's catalog sequencing) are as follows:
Buyers remain anonymous per auction terms, but all committed to the full post-racing ownership packages, ensuring McLaren's racing integrity.
Development and Build Progress of the Three Cars
As of December 6, 2025 (one day post-auction), the cars are in active development at McLaren's Woking facilities, with timelines tied to their 2026–2027 debuts. The auction sales provide financial and promotional boosts, accelerating testing and homologation. Progress is on track, leveraging McLaren's 2025 Constructors' Championship success (10th title secured early). Key updates:
  • 2026 McLaren F1 MCL40A :
    Design frozen under 2026 regs (sustainable fuels, active aero, lighter chassis). Wind tunnel testing 85% complete; CFD simulations ongoing for power unit integration (Mercedes-AMG collaboration). Prototype build started Q4 2025; first shakedown expected Q1 2026. Auction buyer gains input on livery/personalization post-season. Progress: 70% overall (focus on aero efficiency for Monaco GP target).
  • 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar :
    Based on Dallara DW12 chassis with McLaren's custom aero kit and Chevrolet engine. Development emphasizes high-downforce for Indy 500 oval (target: top-3 finish). Dyno testing underway; on-track mules tested at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in November 2025. Full prototype assembly begins January 2026. Progress: 60% (Indy-specific aero validation prioritized; O'Ward involved in simulator sessions).
  • 2027 McLaren United AS LMDh Hypercar :
    McLaren's endurance return: LMDh-spec (Dallara chassis, hybrid V6 from McLaren Automotive). Balance of Performance homologation in progress with FIA/ACO. Initial roll-out testing scheduled Q2 2026; endurance sims focus on Le Mans hyperpole reliability. Build phase ramps up post-2026 F1/Indy distractions. Progress: 45% (earliest debut; emphasis on hybrid system durability for 24h races).
The project overall is ~55% complete, with cross-program synergies (e.g., shared aero data) accelerating timelines. McLaren CEO Zak Brown noted the auction "fuels our Triple Crown pursuit," with no delays reported. Future milestones: F1/IndyCar unveilings in February 2026; Hypercar reveal mid-2026. Track progress via McLaren Racing's official channels for real-time updates.

​1
for 2026 F1 season
SOLD for $ 11.5M

​The McLaren Formula 1 Team MCL40A for the 2026 F1 season was sold for $ 11.5M from a lower estimate of $ 10M by RM Sotheby's on December 5, 2025, lot 429.

​2
for 2027 WEC / Le Mans entry
​SOLD for $ 7.6M

The McLaren United AS LM Hypercar for the 2027 WEC / Le Mans team entry was sold for $ 7.6M from a lower estimate of $ 6M by RM Sotheby's on December 5, 2025, lot 430.

The Arrow McLaren IndyCar for the 2026 season was sold for $ 850K in the same sale, lot 428.

2025 RUF SCR
2026 SOLD for $ 2.1M by Broad Arrow
​kept here for a page limited to 2025

The 2025 RUF SCR (chassis W09CB0A02SPR06025) was sold for $ 2.1M at Broad Arrow Auctions' Porsche Air|Water Auction 2026 on April 25, 2026, at The OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California, lot 235. It carried an auction estimate of $1,900,000 – $2,300,000. This example was delivered new in March 2025 and shows only 217 miles (delivery mileage), making it virtually new in condition. It comes with its RUF Zertifikat, driver's manual, comprehensive digital build images, and a serialized indoor car cover embroidered in the exterior color with the RUF logo and chassis number.
Key Features of the RUF SCR Model (Modern Version, Introduced 2018)
RUF Automobile (an independent German manufacturer since 1981) designed the contemporary SCR as a ground-up creation, not a modified Porsche 911. It pays homage to the original 1978 RUF SCR (a naturally aspirated upgrade based on the Porsche 911 SC) but uses entirely bespoke engineering.
  • Chassis & Body: Carbon-fiber monocoque with bonded front/rear spaceframes and an integrated high-strength steel roll cage. The aerodynamically optimized carbon-fiber bodywork (shaped via CFD analysis) evokes the classic air-cooled 911 silhouette while being fully independent.
  • Engine: 4.0-liter naturally aspirated, water-cooled aluminum-block flat-six producing 510 hp at 8,270 rpm and 347 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque at 5,760 rpm. It draws from the Mezger engine family lineage for a high-revving, emotional character.
  • Performance: 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) in 3.4 seconds; top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h). Excellent power-to-weight ratio thanks to lightweight construction.
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive with a RUF six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip differential for a pure, tactile, analog driving experience.
  • Weight: Approximately 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) curb weight, emphasizing agility and responsiveness.
  • Suspension: Double-wishbone setup at both axles with pushrod-actuated horizontal dampers (actively adjustable in two settings) and Sachs dampers.
  • Brakes: Large ventilated ceramic composite discs (380 mm front) with six-piston monobloc calipers; cross-drilled for strong stopping power.
  • Philosophy: Focuses on driver engagement over electronics, with timeless elegant lines, lightweight materials, and a longer wheelbase than many contemporaries. Each car is built to individual customer specification, making examples highly exclusive.
The modern SCR is often praised for blending retro-inspired aesthetics with modern engineering, delivering raw performance without forced induction.
Key Features of This Specific 2025 RUF SCR for Sale
​This made-to-order example stands out for its striking bespoke configuration and low-mileage, near-showroom state:
  • Exterior: Paint-to-Sample Türkisblau (Turkish Blue) — a vivid, deeply saturated historic shade. It rides on matte Titanium Grey 19-inch forged center-lock five-spoke RUF wheels with Guards Red brake calipers. Additional options include a front-axle hydraulic lifting system, full paint protection film, and magnetic number plates.
  • Interior: RUF Black Nappa leather with black stitching and Türkisblau embroidery. It features fixed Kevlar-carbon “Lollipop” bucket seats trimmed in Black leather with black-and-grey houndstooth inserts. Matte carbon-fiber trim accents the dashboard and door center covers; extended Nappa leather covers the door cards, dashboard, center console, and rear area. An embroidered SCR logo adds a subtle custom touch.
  • Other Highlights: Lightweight battery; carbon-fiber elements throughout for weight savings and rigidity. The car is accompanied by full documentation, underscoring its collectible status as one of the most exclusive modern RUFs to reach the market in like-new condition.
Overall, this SCR represents RUF's capability for fully in-house supercar production, offering a highly emotional, driver-focused experience in a rare, beautifully specified package. As a low-mileage, one-of-a-kind build in an eye-catching color, it is positioned as a strong collector's item within the Porsche enthusiast community.

2026 De Beers Jwaneng 28.88
2026 SOLD for HK$ 21M by Sotheby's
kept here for a page limited to 2026

The De Beers Jwaneng 28.88 is a remarkable natural diamond originating from Botswana's Jwaneng mine (Debswana, a 50/50 joint venture between De Beers and the Government of Botswana). It is the world's richest diamond mine by value, with production starting in the early 1980s. The mine's name translates from Setswana as "a place of small stones."
Geological Origins and Rough Discovery
Diamonds like this form billions of years ago deep in Earth's mantle under extreme heat and pressure, then travel upward via ancient volcanic (kimberlite) pipes. This stone surfaced in the Kalahari region of southern Africa.The rough diamond weighed 114.83 carats when recovered from the Jwaneng mine. No public exact discovery date has been disclosed (likely in the years leading up to 2025–2026, given the polishing timeline and 2026 auction). It was a substantial rough with inherent crystalline complexity shaped purely by natural forces.
Cutting and Polishing Process
De Beers' master specialists conducted months of meticulous study and planning before cutting. The goal was to honor the rough's innate structure rather than force a standard shape, preserving its natural qualities while maximizing brilliance.
The rough transformed into a 28.88-carat round brilliant (a significant yield loss typical for achieving top clarity and symmetry from irregular rough). Each facet was carefully considered and positioned to respect the stone's original form, directing light paths with precision for "dimensional luminosity." This interpretive craftsmanship highlights both nature's perfection and the cutter's artistry.
Specific facet details are not publicly quantified (e.g., exact facet count or angles beyond standard round brilliant proportions), but sources emphasize that the cutting is "exceptional" with "excellent" overall execution. A classic modern round brilliant typically features 57 or 58 facets (33 on the crown, 24 on the pavilion, plus table and culet variations), optimized here for fire, scintillation, and light performance while retaining the stone's purity.
Key Features and Specifications
  • Weight: 28.88 carats (polished).
  • Shape/Cut: Round brilliant, with excellent cut, polish, and symmetry.
  • Color: D (colorless; the highest grade on the GIA scale).
  • Clarity: Flawless (internally flawless; no inclusions visible under 10x magnification).
  • Type: Type IIa (chemically purest form of natural diamond, with no measurable nitrogen impurities; fewer than 2% of all natural diamonds qualify).
  • Other notes: Unmounted (loose stone). The polished weight of 28.88 carries cultural auspiciousness in Asian (especially Chinese) markets—"8" symbolizes prosperity, and the combination evokes harmony and good fortune.
It represents a "vanishingly rare feat of nature" combined with masterful cutting, as described by Sotheby's experts.
Modern Journey and Current Status (as of April 2026)
  • Unveiling: First shown publicly in March 2026 at Maison Assouline in London (never before seen by the public at that point).
  • Collaboration: This stone launches the new Sotheby's-De Beers "From Earth to Art" partnership, framing exceptional diamonds as artworks that trace their full traceable journey from mine to market. It aligns with De Beers' emphasis on ethical sourcing, community benefits in Botswana (e.g., infrastructure, education, healthcare via diamond revenues), and sustainability initiatives like Building Forever.
  • Current location: On view at Sotheby's Hong Kong ahead of auction (part of Luxury Week, presented by Standard Chartered HK).
  • Auction: Sold for HK $ 21M on 23 April 2026 (11:00 AM HKT) in Sotheby's Hong Kong High Jewelry sale, lot 1668. Estimate: HKD 17,000,000 – 22,000,000 (approximately USD 2.2–2.8 million). It headlines the sale alongside other Jwaneng-origin De Beers diamonds (some offered without reserve, with proceeds partially supporting the Peace Parks Foundation's Kavango Zambezi project).
No earlier ownership or sales history exists—this is a direct mine-to-market stone via De Beers and Sotheby's. Its full traceability stems from De Beers' ORIGIN program, which documents the diamond's path.
​In summary, the Jwaneng 28.88 embodies a complete narrative: ancient geological forces → modern mining in Botswana → expert interpretation through cutting → presentation as contemporary art at auction. Its rarity (top color, flawless clarity, Type IIa purity in a significant size) and thoughtful faceting make it a standout example of natural diamond excellence.