Meet the Founders

Driving Forces Behind the ACE Expo & Auction

The Automobilia Collectors Expo proudly stands on the legacy of Automobilia Monterey, a revered event that set the benchmark for automotive collectible showcases before its retirement. Our expo is not just an event; it's the continuation of a tradition, elevated by the vision and dedication of two remarkable figures in the automotive world.

BEN Horton is a renowned figure in the automotive world, with over 30 years of experience at car-related events worldwide, including Retromobile Paris, Goodwood Revival, and the British Grand Prix. His profound knowledge of automotive history and exceptional skill in uncovering hidden gems have made him a cornerstone of this event.

Beyond his role as the founder of Hortons Books, a distinguished authority on rare and out-of-print car books, Ben's contributions extend to being an adviser for some of the world's premier motoring libraries and serving as a judge on the panel of the annual International Historic Motoring Awards and the Royal Automobile Club Motoring Book of the Year Award.

This depth of experience ensures Ben understands precisely what vendors and attendees expect, guaranteeing a rich and rewarding experience for all involved.

 

WILL Elkadi, is a prominent figure in the automotive and hospitality industries and the driving force behind the Monterey Car Week Guide and WhatsUpMonterey, Often referred to as “Mr. Car Week,” Will brings more than 25 years of experience in digital media, marketing, and event production to the Automobilia Collectors Expo.

His publications have become indispensable resources for the Monterey Peninsula, generating over 1.5 million annual pageviews and reaching hundreds of thousands of readers who rely on his in-depth coverage of Monterey Car Week.

Beyond media, Will is the founder of eLab Communications and the creator of the Car Week Passport, a platform designed to simplify and enhance the visitor experience during car week.

Will’s approach to event creation blends modern innovation with a deep respect for tradition — inspired in part by the legacy of his father, who organized more than 20 major expos during the 1970s and 1980s. Through the Automobilia Collectors Expo, Will combines his storytelling perspective with a lifelong passion for automotive history, creating a premier destination where collectors, dealers, artists, and enthusiasts gather to celebrate automobilia culture.

For Media Inquiries and Interviews

The Automobilia World is rich with stories of passion, innovation, and tradition. If you're interested in exploring these stories further or seeking an interview with Ben Horton or Will Elkadi, please contact our Media Relations Team. We welcome the opportunity to share insights into the thriving automobilia community and the dynamic duo leading its charge.