Meet the Specialist

What do you do at Bonhams?

I am a Collector Cars Consultant for Bonhams based in Los Angeles.

Where are you from and what inspired you to go into the car world? 

Born and raised in Strasbourg, I grew up around cars with my parents who used to own dealerships in France. When I graduated from the Bugatti School, I worked as a mechanic then worked my way to becoming a salesperson and then eventually the operating manager of that group. 

What was your first job? 

My first job was as a mechanic at a Jaguar, Ford and Volvo dealership in Mulhouse, France.

Name one of your triumphs? 

In 2019, I discovered a Ferrari 275GTS “barn find” in Northern California which had been with the same owner since the early 70s. It was a complete car, running and driving with a lot of patinas, and sold to a collector in the South of France for restoration.

What has changed in the business since you first started?

The types of cars collectors are interested in have slightly changed since I first started. Cars from the 80s and 90s are now getting more valuable and have found interest, especially amongst younger buyers.

What is your strength as a specialist?

My strength as a specialist comes from my extensive knowledge of European cars starting after the mid-1950s, specifically Ferraris, Porsches, Jaguars, and Mercedes-Benzes. 

Do you have a hidden talent?

I think my technical knowledge gained during my time spent as a mechanic and growing up in the car world is my hidden talent and a valuable asset in my career.

Which car has changed your life?

In France in 1999, I bought my first car which was a two seat Ford Fiesta.

Adrien Durban is a Consultant of Collector Cars based in Los Angeles. He can be reached at adrien.durban@bonhams.com

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