The 1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 occupies a prestigious position within the pinnacle of French Brass Era engineering. During its production years, this marque was widely considered the equal of Rolls-Royce and Panhard et Levassor. Its most distinguishing feature is the iconic round honeycomb radiator, reflecting the company’s history as a boiler manufacturer. This specific 1A4 Landaulet carries the rare distinction of formal coachwork by Rothschild et Fils, a premier shop. Its provenance is equally impressive, having spent nearly two decades in the world-renowned Mullin Automotive Museum. Previously owned by the late Peter Mullin, the car represents the ultimate in early twentieth-century French luxury. It is one of the few surviving examples of the marque currently located within the United States. Offered without reserve, it presents a unique opportunity for collectors of the world’s most dignified motorcars. The vehicle serves as a rolling testament to an era when automobiles were handcrafted for the global aristocracy. It remains a sophisticated choice for any enthusiast of rare, high-quality veteran machinery.
Rothschild et Fils Coachwork and Earth Tone Aesthetics
The exterior of this 1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 features a handsome older restoration that has aged with incredible grace. It is finished in a rich combination of earth tones that highlight its dignified and formal Landaulet silhouette. The round radiator remains the focal point of the front end, signaling the advanced cooling technology within. Rothschild et Fils designed this body to provide maximum privacy and comfort for rear-seat passengers of high status. Brass lamps and polished fittings offer a bright contrast to the deep, muted colors of the main bodywork. The paint shows the character of a well-maintained museum exhibit that has been carefully preserved over many years. Transitioning toward the rear, the Landaulet top allows for an open-air experience for those in the back. This specific chassis, number 6743, carries body number 1732, confirming its custom and highly specialized construction. It stands as a physical representation of the bespoke manufacturing process that defined the pre-war era. Consequently, the car maintains a presence that is both imposing and incredibly refined.
Floral Interior Details and Mother of Pearl Accents
Inside the rear compartment, the 1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 offers an interior of extraordinary detail and artistic craftsmanship. The upholstery features a striking floral print that extends across the door panels and the division bulkhead. Sliding railroad-style windows provide ventilation and light, while wooden companions are placed for the comfort of rear passengers. Even the door cappings are adorned with etched mother of pearl icons, showcasing a level of luxury rarely seen. In contrast, the driver’s compartment is finished in functional and durable brown leather for the chauffeur. The dashboard remains simple and elegant, housing a period Paris-Rhone instrument set and a charming fire extinguisher. Every surface within the car has been kept to the high standards expected of the Mullin Collection. This cabin was designed to be a mobile sanctuary, shielding its occupants from the dust and noise of early roads. It is a stunning example of how early coachbuilders used textile art to enhance automotive luxury. The interior remains the most breathtaking aspect of this French masterpiece.
40 HP Engine Performance and Pressurized Lubrication Specs
The mechanical heart of the 1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 is a powerful 40-horsepower engine of advanced monobloc design. This unit was famous in its day for utilizing fully pressurized lubrication driven by a crankshaft-mounted pump. Such engineering was well ahead of many contemporaries and provided the engine with superior longevity and smooth operation. The chassis was designed to handle the substantial weight of the Rothschild coachwork while maintaining a supple ride quality. It utilizes a manual gearbox and traditional Brass Era controls that require a skilled hand to master correctly. Braking is handled through the rear wheels, a standard configuration for luxury vehicles of this vintage period. The engine bay remains tidy, displaying the high-quality casting and machining that Delaunay-Belleville was known for worldwide. This powertrain allowed the car to maintain a respectable pace even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. It delivers a steady, rhythmic mechanical sound that is synonymous with the era’s finest luxury cruisers. These technical features made it a favorite of prominent figures like Czar Nicholas II.
1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 Summary
This 1914 Delaunay-Belleville 1A4 is an exceptionally rare find for any serious collector of the Brass Era. Its combination of Rothschild coachwork and Peter Mullin provenance makes it a standout lot for the Phoenix auction. The car has been meticulously preserved as part of a world-class museum collection for nearly twenty years. While the restoration is older, it remains attractive and highly detailed throughout both the interior and exterior. Documentation of its ownership history stretches back decades, including its time in Europe before arriving in America. The absence of a reserve price makes it an enticing prospect for those seeking a high-quality French veteran. All original features, including the unique mother of pearl inlays and floral upholstery, remain in excellent condition. This Delaunay-Belleville represents a time when French automobiles set the global standard for mechanical innovation and style. It is a dignified and scarce machine that is ready for further museum display or historic tours. Its sale marks a significant moment for the preservation of early automotive history.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
