Unveiling the Glamorous Legacy of the 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB: A Journey Through Celebrity Ownership
In 1966, the world was enraptured by the glamour of Hollywood, and few couples embodied that enchantment quite like film director Roger Vadim and actress Jane Fonda. The couple, freshly married and brimming with ambition, navigated their way through the haze of fame from the sun-kissed beaches of Southern California to the vibrant streets of Paris. Their enticing combination of talent, beauty, and visibility made them the talk of the town, not only in film circles but also among automotive enthusiasts. Among their exquisite possessions was a stunning piece of machinery that would become a coveted classic—the 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB.
Ferrari 275 GTB Chassis 08641
This particular model, chassis number 08641, tells an intriguing story filled with luxury and nostalgia. Purchased by Vadim on June 15, 1966, the 275 GTB was adorned in an eye-catching Azzuro (106-A-32) hue, complemented by a sumptuous leather Nero (VM 8500) interior. Crafted for the left-hand drive specifications preferred in France, this vehicle effortlessly highlighted the couple’s affluent lifestyle. Falling late in the production run, this 275 GTB featured enhancements such as long-nose steel bodywork, a torque tube, and a trio of Weber carburetors that attuned it for performance as captivating as its appearance.
Vadim, initially the registered owner, obtained this famed Ferrari through Franco-Britannic Autos, Ferrari’s official distributor in Paris, where it was recorded under the registration number 64 SW 75. The car's journey transitioned seamlessly when the registration was later transferred to Jane Fonda, cradling the same prestigious number.
A Star-Studded History
The couple's experiences in this vehicle were thoroughly documented, as one would expect from Hollywood icons. During a summer visit to glamorous Saint-Tropez, they were photogenic and immaculately presented, capturing the charm of the 275 GTB as it complemented their star-studded status. One poignant moment preserved highlights Fonda in the passenger seat, leaving the hospital with their newborn daughter, Vanessa, in October 1968—a tangible representation of life’s cherished milestones.
From Celebrity to Collector
The relationship between Vadim and Fonda lasted a little over two and a half years during which they became inseparable from the 275 GTB. On November 1968, the car returned to Franco-Britannic Autos, now registered as 1404 W 75 (trade plate), before being acquired by a Lyon-based collector, Mr. Tamalet. Under new ownership, the vehicle was repainted red and registered under his company as 1191 DG 69, a sure sign of its continued journey through automotive history.
Its next owners, Christian and Anne Baverey, made sure to put the 275 GTB to some spirited track use, and the car found itself at Pierre Bardinon’s renowned Mas du Clos circuit, where it was driven by Jean-Claude Killy, a standout in ski racing. This charismatic machine was later steered by Anne Baverey at events like the Limonest-Mont Verdun hillclimb, showcasing the car’s competitive spirit once again.
A Restoration Journey
Fast forward to the last five years, chassis 08641 underwent meticulous restoration to reclaim its original aesthetic, now elegantly dressed in its Azzurro finish over the classic Nero interior. This restoration ensures that the car echoes the allure it had during its star-studded ownership, just like when Fonda and Vadim cruised it through Parisian boulevards. It’s worth noting that the car is Ferrari Classiche certified, confirming it holds its original chassis, engine, and gearbox—a rare distinction that fortifies its invaluable status in automotive history.
Cultural Impact
The 1966 275 GTB has been a darling amongst A-list celebrities beyond Fonda and Vadim. Notably, icons like Steve McQueen and jazz legend Miles Davis also reveled in the artistry of the 275 GTB, highlighting the car's towering status among Hollywood’s elite. Vadim himself was no stranger to Ferrari, having previously owned the illustrious 250 California Spider, which only enhances the allure surrounding this famous couple.
As the proud owner of chassis 08641, one becomes part of the narrative that transcends an ordinary vehicular acquisition. With its storied past, glamourous heritage, and Ferrari Classiche certification, this car represents more than just a classic; it symbolizes dreams, stardom, and the thrill of Italian engineering.
Private Sale Information
For those looking to own a piece of automotive and cinematic history, more details can be found through the official presentation HERE. Owning the 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB not only means possessing an exquisite piece of art but becoming a custodian of the legacy that it contains.