Chicago’s Klairmont Kollections to Auction Iconic Car Collection

The famed Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum in Chicago is set to auction its entire collection of approximately 300 classic cars. The auction, organized by Mecum Auctions, will take place from September 19 to 21, 2023, and will feature a diverse array of vehicles with no reserve price, meaning every item will be sold regardless of the highest bid.

Founded by Larry Klairmont, who passed away in July 2023, the museum has been a significant attraction since the early 2000s, showcasing a wide range of cars that appeal to both collectors and automotive enthusiasts. The decision to liquidate the collection comes as a result of Klairmont’s death and the museum’s closure.

Visitors to the auction can expect to see a mixture of unique vehicles, including replica movie cars such as a Jurassic Park Jeep, several Batmobiles, and the iconic Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine. However, the collection extends beyond cinematic vehicles. It includes rare finds such as amphibious cars, microcars, and even a 1905 Rapide 9 Passenger Omnibus.

Notable highlights from the auction include the Golden Sahara II, a custom car from the late 1950s famous for its illuminated orange tires, and a 1926 Rickenbacker Eight Super Sport, purportedly the only remaining example of its kind.

The auction will also feature an additional 1,000 pieces of automobilia and “road art” that adorned the museum’s walls and ceiling. Although Klairmont’s collection once peaked at around 600 vehicles, the auction will present the remaining 295 collector vehicles for sale.

The museum will open its doors for the final public tours on September 13 and 14, 2023. These dates will also serve as preview days for registered bidders, who will be granted free access to the museum.

With the auction set to draw significant interest, the no-reserve policy guarantees that every item will find a new owner. As the event approaches, updates on remarkable sales and record-breaking prices will be shared, reflecting the ongoing legacy of Larry Klairmont’s unique car collection.