Mercedes-benz auctioned by Bonhams in aid of Paris Charity for Post-Trauma Research
A 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Convertible will go under the hammer at Bonhams 4 February Grand Palais sale, with proceeds in aid of Parisian charity, Fondation de l'Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP); a foundation dedicated to supporting post-trauma research.
- (1888PressRelease) January 29, 2016 - The generous donor, Jim Byrnes - an Australian citizen of French descent and Chairman of BMT Restoration Inc. - selected the charity in order to support those affected by the terrorist attacks that took place in Paris last year.
"There is a gift in giving; it's wonderful to feel you have helped someone," said Mr. Byrnes. "Combining my love of classic cars with this donation to a worthy cause, I hope that in some small way we will be able to help the people who need it most following this atrocity."
Philip Kantor, Bonhams European Head of Motoring, said: "Following the events in Paris on 13th November, people around the world have showed their solidarity with France by supporting Parisian hospitals. Mr. Byrnes is a wonderful example of generosity, having approached Bonhams to auction his 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Convertible in support of post-trauma research. The motor car is a wonderful and poignant addition to the Grand Palais sale."
Funded by private donations, the AP-HP, chaired by Martin Hirsch, aims to provide resources for research projects, support clinical research programmes for medical teams and paramedics, and speed up the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. The charity also encourages partner projects with universities, as well as the French Institute of Health and Medical Research, for both French and international medical research. Half of France's clinical research is carried out in AP-HP hospitals, with more than 3000 research projects currently under way.
Since the 13th November, the AP-HP have been called on 24/7, taking in more than 900 people, including those that have suffered severe psychological trauma.
In 1969, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL convertible was one of the only automobiles to combine the performance of a sports car and the comfort of a sitting room. The 280 SL's 'user friendly' nature broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market, leading many celebrities and film stars to purchase the model. Entered at no reserve, the Mercedes is estimated at €80,000-100,000. Bonhams Grand Palais Sale takes place in Paris on 4 February.
Auction:
Automobilia 10:30
Motorcycles 12:30
Motor Cars 14:00
Viewing:
3 February 09:30-20:30
4 February (auction day) from 09:00
For further information visit: https://www.bonhams.com/departments/MOT-CAR/
Bonhams Grand Palais Sale takes place in Paris on 4 February. For further information visit: https://www.bonhams.com/departments/MOT-CAR/
About Bonhams:
Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world's largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. Today, the auction house offers more sales than any of its rivals. The main salerooms are in London, New York and Hong Kong. Sales are also held in the UK in Knightsbridge and Edinburgh; in the US, in San Francisco and Los Angeles; in Europe, in Paris and Stuttgart and in Sydney, Australia. Bonhams also has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas. For a full listing of forthcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com.
About the AP-HP:
The AP-HP, Greater Paris University Hospitals, is globally recognised as a key player for clinical research in France and Europe. Every year, 39 hospitals welcome 7 million patients: for consultation, emergencies, scheduled hospitalisations or in-home hospitalisations. It ensures a public health service for all, 24/7, and it is done through duty and pride. The AP-HP is the number one employer for the region of Ile de-France: 95,000 dedicated professionals - doctors, researchers, paramedics, administrators and workers - work there. http://www.aphp.fr
About BMT Restoration Inc:
BMT Restoration Inc. specializes in the restoration and worldwide sales of classic and historic motor vehicles. Located in the former US Air Force base Clark Field, 90 km North of Manila in the Philippines, BMT Restoration Inc. has a 20,000 sqm facility specifically set up to restore classic vehicles of merit to manufacturer's specifications and Concours quality. BMT Restoration Inc. has scouts all over the world looking for specific cars of interest with a core business that lies in buying and restoring classic Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar. For more information, please visit BMTRestoration.com.
Media Contacts:
Bonhams:
Press Office, France
Marie Laurence de Rochefort
mlderochefort ( @ ) yahoo dot f
+33 1 42 88 40 43 / 06 60 61 88 07
Press Office, UK
Ruth Fletcher
Ruth.fletcher ( @ ) bonhams dot com
+44 (0) 20 7468 8210
AP-HP:
Anne-Cécile Bard et Marine Leroy
service.presse ( @ ) aphp dot fr
+33 1 40 27 37 22
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