Wet wealth

As expected, a deluge of blue-chip automobiles lined up at the start of the Tour d’Elegance; the only notable absence was California’s usually balmy weather. With the wind cold and the drizzle steady, few would have blamed the entrants for standing down their steeds, and instead completing the pilgrimage to Pebble tucked up inside their transportable stables. 

Blue chip, red blood

But this is perhaps the best illustration of just how coveted a win at the Concours is: in the event of a tie, a car that took part in the Tour would triumph over those that hitched a ride on a trailer. And when you consider not only the value of the cars, but also the high percentage of ‘open’ entrants (no fewer than 13 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossas took part), it makes their participation in the parade along 17 Mile Drive all the more commendable.

Photos: © Drew Phillips for Classic Driver