1935 Hispano-Suiza J12 Coupé Chauffeur by Kellner

The Pinnacle of Pre-War Luxury and Engineering

The Hispano-Suiza J12 stands as one of the greatest achievements in pre-war automotive engineering, renowned for its extraordinary smoothness, immense power, and refined road manners. As one of the most modern and advanced 12-cylinder automobiles produced before World War II, the J12 is exceptionally rare, and examples seldom become available for sale.

This particular J12, fitted with stately coupé chauffeur coachwork by Kellner, boasts a distinguished ownership history, having been associated with some of the most notable collectors and connoisseurs of the 20th century.

Provenance: A History of Elegance and Prestige

Marcel Boussac – The Original Owner (1935–1955)

• Originally registered in July 1935 to Marcel Boussac, the French textile magnate who owned the renowned fashion house Christian Dior.
• Following his 1938 marriage to Belgian opera singer Fanny Heldy, the car was primarily used by Mrs. Boussac for city driving and continental touring.

Mid-Century Transfers and UK Ownership (1955–1970s)

• Sold in April 1955 to a firm in Paris before being exported to the United Kingdom later in the decade.
• Re-emerged in the 1970s in the collection of the famed racing driver and enthusiast Michel Poberejsky, known as “Mike Sparken”.
• During Poberejsky’s ownership, the J12 underwent an overhaul by Louis Rossigneux at Gaston Garino’s garage, Sport Auto.

A Journey to the United States and Beyond (1975–Present)

• In 1975, Poberejsky sold the car to Count Frédéric Chandon de Brialles, a member of the famed Moët & Chandon champagne dynasty.
• Three years later, in 1978, the car was auctioned and acquired by Dr. Donald Vesley, a distinguished American collector based in Florida.
• In 2003, the J12 was acquired from Mrs. Vesley by the current collector, where it has remained ever since.

A Masterpiece Awaiting Restoration

Though awaiting final restoration, this Hispano-Suiza J12 remains an exceptional and historically significant example of pre-war motoring excellence.

With its elegant Kellner coachwork, unparalleled engineering, and storied ownership history, this J12 is an ideal candidate for international concours events, where it will undoubtedly be warmly received as one of the greatest pre-war automobiles ever produced.