- Unique model ordered by the inventor of the Bikini

- Complete and well-preserved vehicle

- Clear history, 3 owners in 75 years

As the inventor of the famous swimsuit for which he registered the “Bikini” trademark in 1946, Louis Réard shortly after conceived an advertising vehicle intended to travel across France and Europe, which would be the link between the beach, a symbol of freedom and the automobile, essential for its promotion in the most remote locations. And this is how the “yacht car” was born, with its creation entrusted to the famous coachbuilder Henri Chapron. Initially intended to be based on an Hotchkiss chassis, it ended up being fitted on a more suitable 1937 Packard Super Eight chassis, with its powerful 8 cylinders and in order to move the imposing bodywork.

Unconventional and unique, this road yacht takes the shape and fittings of a ship: sleek bow, portholes, mooring cleats and even a mast erected in the centre of a cockpit at the rear, with Louis Réard’s colours fluttering at the top. The hull was christened with champagne in the purest naval tradition on the 1st October 1948. Then, the car took part in the Enghien-les-Bains concours of elegance in June 1949.

Throughout the late 1940s and 1950s, this extravagant automobile went on the road, notably during the famous Tour de France cycling race or, during tours of France in areas surrounded by beaches. Naturally, both the car and models at the back of the cockpit promoting the Bikini caused quite a stir wherever they went. This idea was even commended by the “Grand Premier Prix de la Coupe” of the French Federation of Advertising. Kept by Louis Réard until May 1976, the Packard was then bought by Jacques Vincent, a famous collector from Var who kept it until 2023 despite numerous purchase enquiries. Since the 1960s, this exceptional piece of automotive history was last seen in the spotlight in 1987 at the Retromobile show, before disappearing again.

In a remarkably well-preserved condition, it has retained all specific elements received over the course of its evolution, which make this creation so distinctive.

It was recently restarted but will nonetheless require a full service before considering a new Tour de France! Many people have tried to get their hands on this museum piece over the last 70 years and now, this unique opportunity is available to you!