Collectors’ items under hammer

Cheffins’ Cambridge Vintage Sale at Sutton, near Ely, on October 24, will showcase a number of the world’s most unusual classic and vintage tractors, alongside vintage motorbikes, classic commercial vehicles, classic cars, petroliana and collectors’ items, at Europe’s largest auction of its type.
By Community Reporter
Published 9th Oct 2020, 09:45 BST
Updated 16th Oct 2020, 08:37 BST
Burrell Steam WagonBurrell Steam Wagon
Burrell Steam Wagon

Cheffins is Europe’s leading auctioneer of vintage machinery and this sale is set to be a major event for collectors and enthusiasts.

The item with the highest estimate on offer on the day is a model 6ins scale Burrell Steam Wagon which is expected to generate between £65,000 - £80,000. This unique wagon is a totally accurate half-size replica of Burrell 3793, and was built to Burrell works drawings by master model engineer, Roy Butcher or Lakenheath, Suffolk, over a ten-year period.

Amongst the 150 tractors on offer, there is a scarce model of a Weeks-Dungey Patent ‘Simplex’ early tractor which dates back to 1915. The tractor was built by Hugh Percival Dungey from Cranbrook in Kent with the aim to use it in small fields and between narrow rows of fruit and hop plants. There are few of these machines still in existence, with this model being of historical significance. It has an estimate of £35,000 - £45,000. Also on offer is a 1941 Roadless Standard N crawler tractor. This tractor was previously owned by Sir Richard Fairey, a British aviation pioneer/manufacturer of military planes during WWII. It has an estimate of £15,000 - £16,000. Amongst the newer classics, the highlight is a 1985 Mercedes MB Trac 1000 tractor which has been cosmetically restored and has 8,350 hours on the clock. It comes with its V5 and is expected to achieve £25,000 - £28,000.

1985 Mercedes MB Trac 1000 tractor1985 Mercedes MB Trac 1000 tractor
1985 Mercedes MB Trac 1000 tractor

Amongst the classic motorbikes, a 1982 864cc Ducati Mike Hailwood Replica which was imported from Holland in 2011 has an estimate of £18,000 - £19,000. It is currently owned by an ex-classic Ducati racer, has been a prize winner at several local shows and is offered in an original condition. For purchasers looking for something more unusual, a horse-drawn canvas barrel top Romany wagon, circa 1912, is offered with an estimate of £8,000 - £12,000. It comes with a pull-out bed, Queenie stove, period crockery and a set of lamps.

The petroliana section is dominated by a series of lots from the personal collection of world-renowned automobilia collector Stewart Imber of Goodwood Revival and set and prop hire company, Themed Garages.

The sale will allow live bidding for tractors, vehicles and motorcycles, with other parts being offered as a timed online auction. For more information visit www.cheffins.co.uk, or call 01353 777767.

Related topics:EuropeSuttonCambridge