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This beautiful replica first appeared in September, 1991, as the "Car of Kings....the King of Cars" at a time when exotic
classic models were a heady trip even for the extremely
well-heeled. The model is huge (14 1/2 " long, 9.2lbs), beautifully detailed, extremely well finished and turned out. It is presented with a "bound" portfolio with parchment paperwork and a print illustration of the "Bug" in "action". Features such as fold down wood picnic tables, 4 opening doors (snugly fitted and operable), a fabulous engine replication, and even the sterling silver elephant
dancing on the radiator cap....while fantastic in 1991, are hardly remarkable in 1997. The QC on this model was excellent...and, for its then $295 issue price, this precision was expected.
Fast-forward...6 years...1997. FM notices the reaction of the crowds to the Royale as it made the rounds of the Concours and the Auction circuit…in a flash of marketing genius, they decide to reissue the Bugatti, unchanged, exactly the same as it was before...without any overt reference to the fact that this was, indeed, a reissue. The price, however, was new...up $100 to $395. Affordability is all relative to the individual, but it's this reviewer's
opinion that this model, as beautiful and significant as it is, may not justify its pricing in the minds of collectors with budgets. The reissue may be differentiated from the original by the presence of a mark on the undercarriage. DISCONTINUED 12/31/1999. (12/01/1998)
(05/17/2000)
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