FRANCIS STAUB COLLECTION

French registration papers
Chassis no. 871
Body no. 0852

- One of the first cars produced by Jean Daninos
- Well presented
- The first Facel from the Staub collection

As we noted previously, in 1939 Jean Daninos established the company Forges et Ateliers de Construction d'Eure-et-Loir (FACEL), which specialised in manufacturing aviation components and metal furniture. After the war, the firm built car bodies for Panhard, Simca and Ford France, before starting to produce its own models with the Vega. Introduced in 1951 by Ford France (SAF), the Comète was a luxurious coupé, whose elegant design was entrusted to the “Stabilmenti Farina” and whose body was built by Facel Métallon. Thus it was one of the first cars produced by Daninos, blessed with gentle, flowing lines which resulted in a look of absolute elegance. As was expected of a prestige model, it was equipped with a 2.2-litre V8 engine developing 74 bhp, which enabled it to deliver first-rate performance in its class. Production of all models combined amounted to 3064 units in two years.

The model which we are offering for sale was first registered on 22 June 1953. Bought by Francis Staub in October 2012 from a collector in the Tarn, it was the first “Facel” with which he began his collection. Significant work was undertaken, the body was entirely refurbished and repainted in the very elegant shade of turquoise green with a dark green roof, in accordance with the range of colours when it was new. Nor was the interior overlooked, with magnificent dark green leather and matching carpets. The very handsome dashboard is also in correct period specification, as well as being equipped with a rare Firvox radio. The grey-painted wire wheels are fitted with Robergel wheel trims and whitewall tyres, which should be changed to ensure safer handling. Under the bonnet, the V8 engine and three-speed manual gearbox make this a pleasant car to drive, and it stylishly embodies luxury à la française from the 1950s.

This is one of the most interesting cars, as much for its impeccable looks as for its rarity. It is a true luxury motorcar at the crossroads of French and American design, a Facel Vega before its time.

Aguttes – Auction House in Paris
The Spring Sale 2020 / 15th of March

Public Viewing:
Friday 13 March: 18:00 PM to 22:00 PM
Saturday 14 March: 10:00 AM to 19:00 PM
Sunday 15 March: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Hall B / Espace Champerret - 75017 Paris

Contact: +33 6 16 91 42 28 / [email protected]

The Auction Sale:
Sunday 15 March: 15:00 PM
Hall B / Espace Champerret - 75017 Paris

Contact: +33 6 16 91 42 28 / [email protected]

For more information and photos:
https://expertise.aguttes.com/estimation-automobiles-de-collection/