Rare 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello Up for Auction on Car & Classic
Car & Classic, a leading specialist online auction platform, is set to auction an exceedingly rare 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello, boasting remarkable competition heritage.
Being Alfa Romeo's inaugural post-war production model, the compact 1900 was pivotal in heralding a new era for the Milan-based marque. Introduced as a four-door saloon in 1950, the slightly abbreviated 1900C Sprint coupé debuted a year later. Esteemed coachbuilders Pininfarina, Zagato, Touring, and Ghia each crafted sporty variants, with Ghia's Supergioiello—meaning 'jewel'—widely acclaimed as the pinnacle of design.
Only six were completed, while Ghia manufactured the bodies for 18 to 20 vehicles. This particular Alfa Romeo 1900C Sprint Supergioiello, chassis 01549, represents the final iteration and is among the three survivors worldwide. Originating from 1953, it was delivered to Spain in 1954 and saw action in competitions under Gumersindo Garcia Fernandez, an avid rally enthusiast. Notably, it competed in the gruelling Rallye Monte-Carlo in 1955, followed by several other motorsport endeavours until it retired from competition due to an accident in 1961.
The Alfa Romeo resurfaced in 1990 under new ownership and underwent restoration by Cognolato in Italy, reverting to its original Metallic Copper finish. With just 78 kilometres (48 miles) driven since restoration, it retains its authentic '400' competition number.
This Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello remains in impeccable condition. It clinched the prestigious 'Best in Show' title at the Essen Motor Show in 2016 and was showcased at the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance since being acquired by a European collector five years ago.
"As one of Alfa Romeo's rarest gems from the post-war era, the 1900 boasts a track record of success in renowned rallies like the Targa Florio. However, the 1900C Sprint, featuring Ghia bodywork, holds an even more distinguished status," states Dale Vinten, Car & Classic's Head of Editorial. "The final Ghia-produced chassis, with its captivating competition history, pristine condition, and eligibility for esteemed contemporary events such as the Mille Miglia Storica, only serves to heighten its allure."
The auction is slated to commence on September 17, spanning seven days, with estimates projecting a potential sale value of around £640,000.
