By Will Elkadi, Co-Founder

When the gavel fell on the final lot inside the Embassy Suites Monterey Seaside, it marked more than the close of an auction — it marked the beginning of a new tradition. The Automobilia Collectors Expo’s first-ever live auction demonstrated that the passion for automobilia is not only alive, but thriving.

From vintage posters and racing art to rare period memorabilia and collector-grade pieces, more than 425 lots crossed the block over two days of spirited bidding. Collectors gathered in the ballroom and joined from around the world — including the U.K., Argentina, and beyond — united by a shared appreciation for automotive history.

Strong Debut and Enthusiastic Response

The inaugural auction delivered a strong showing, with the majority of lots successfully placed into new collections. Attendance welcomed over 250 collectors and enthusiasts, while thousands more followed the action online and through social media coverage, extending the reach well beyond Monterey.

Notable Collections

• Donald Osborne’s Private “Tin Toy” Collection: A rare opportunity to acquire pieces from the personal collection of a respected industry figure, met with strong international interest and competitive bidding.
• Laguna Seca Private Collection: Historic items tied to one of America’s most iconic racing venues resonated strongly with collectors, reinforcing the enduring appeal of Monterey’s motorsport heritage.
• 1954 Jaguar XK120 (Feature Lot): A standout offering that drew significant attention throughout the auction and ultimately concluded in a private post-sale transaction, reflecting continued demand for high-quality collector vehicles.
• Global Automobilia Offerings: Featuring vintage posters, rare literature, rally plates, badges, scale models, and unique memorabilia sourced from around the world.

A Collector Community Comes Together

Beyond the auction itself, the event brought together a passionate community. Seasoned collectors connected with new enthusiasts, vendors shared the stories behind their pieces, and attendees experienced firsthand that automobilia is as much about heritage and connection as it is about the objects themselves.

Momentum Toward 2026

Building on this successful debut, the Automobilia Collectors Expo continues to evolve as a premier destination during Monterey Car Week. Automobilia Collectors Expo 2026, taking place August 10–12, 2026, will expand its footprint with more exhibitors, enhanced experiences, and the continued growth of the Live Automobilia Auction as a cornerstone feature.

As the event enters its third year, the vision is clear: to create a dynamic environment where collectors can buy, sell, network, and celebrate the culture of automobilia — all in one place, at the very start of Car Week.