Le magazine et marché mondial pour les passionnés de voitures classiques, par des passionnés.
Le magazine et marché mondial pour les passionnés de voitures classiques, par des passionnés.
Is it the fault of mass production? The fault of the internet? Or is it the mind of mankind that has travelled downstairs? A Concours d'Elegance is meant to make public higher qualities in design and fine manners around since the seventeenth century...! This according to the popular living encyclopedia of Wiki. The massive advantages aside, the only problem with this kind of 'encyclopedia' is the suggestion that you get solid infomation. In the wiki-text one can easily get the impression that after the French concours of the 17th century the concept sailed over to Pebble Beach, Meadow Brook and Amelia Island without leaving a trace in Europe. Not a single syllable about the rich tradition along the coasts of France & Italy during the roaring twenties. Not a word about the oldest surviving Concours: Villa d'Este. We wonder if there is a list available somewhere with all pre-war concourses? From the time when elegance still was a commodity. If so, please contact us.
( photo courtesy Artcurial)
UPDATE II by Lee Jacobson:"A partial list from a MGSA advertisment states:"
First at Hastings - Tickford
First at Bexhill - Tickford
First at Cardiff - Tickford
First at Eastbourne-Tickford
First at Ramsgate - Tickford & Saloon
'Overwhelming proof of a fine car'.....
These were probably held in '37-'38.
I'm sure there are others but these are a start.
UPDATE by Marc Fellman:" it is sure that the concept of concours d'elegance represented an important cultural icon both pre-war and post-war in Europe and in particular France. Such events as
"La Grand Cascade du bois de Boulogne" and
"Concours d'elegance du Parc des Princes"
were major events for manufacturers, carrossiers, celebrities and the display of fashion of the day."