During the Bonhams auction at Retromobile on February 6 in Paris, the oldest known example of a DS Prestige from the first year of production will be offered for sale. It was used as the French Military Attaché’s official car in Rome, and is the only known surviving DS Prestige delivered to the French Military, featuring details not shared by any other survivor.
One of about 60 survivors of 350 built, the original French Military number ‘🇫🇷 020893’ is painted on the underside of the original hood, which separate but will be sold with the car. Henri Chapron’s number ‘6010’ is handwritten on the reverse of all the interior panels. After its military service ended, the DS Prestige returned to Paris and was registered as ‘722 TF 75’. (These plates will be included in the sale).
Subsequently, this DS Prestige was owned by numerous prominent Citroën collectors before being acquired by the current owner, the former proprietor of DS World in London. As a DS aficionado, he respectfully preserved the car’s high degree of originality while undertaking a sympathetic light restoration.
In 2019 the car was fully re-commissioned and fitted with a fully reconditioned gearbox and clutch, the front brake callipers overhauled, and more.
Since its purchase many years ago the Prestige has been exhibited at the 2005 DS 50th Anniversary in Paris as well as international Chapron events in 2005 and 2007.
It is expected to command between $67,000 – 100,000 USD.
More photos and the auction listing can be seen here: https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/26005/lot/212/
Update – Feb. 8, 2020: Sold for $81,993 USD (€ 74,750) inc. premium.