RM SOTHEBY'S WELCOMES TONNIE VAN DER VELDEN TO ITS GLOBAL SPECIALIST TEAM

 

 

Amy Christie achristie@rmsothebys.com +1 519 437 3047

Peter Haynes phaynes@rmsothebys.com +44 7738 883 259

RM SOTHEBY’S WELCOMES TONNIE VAN DER VELDEN 

TO ITS GLOBAL SPECIALIST TEAM

Well-known and respected collector car expert Tonnie van der Velden joins RM Sotheby’s

LONDON, England (September 24, 2015) – RM Sotheby’s, the world’s largest collector car auction house for investment-quality automobiles, is thrilled to announce the addition of Tonnie van der Velden to its global team of car specialists.

A lifelong enthusiast, Tonnie traces his love for classic cars back to 1975 when his brother bought a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster. His brother’s purchase quickly led to buying and selling as a hobby, exposing Tonnie to a wide variety of makes and models from a young age. In 1987, Tonnie entered into business with his brother, and has since been actively involved in buying and selling classic and modern examples on an international level, including from such marques as Ferrari, Maserati and Mercedes-Benz.

While Tonnie’s passion for automobiles spans the spectrum of the market – from prewar to modern sports cars – he has a particular penchant for European sports cars, with a focus on Ferrari. He purchased his first collector car in 1982 – a 1963 Alfa Romeo Giulia SS - and has gone on to own a diverse range of motor cars from a 1909 Jackson to a 1956 Chevrolet Corvette, a 1963 AC Cobra, and numerous contemporary Ferraris. Tonnie also takes a keen interest in automobilia and automotive art, as well as other passion-driven hobbies such as fine art and watches.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Tonnie to our global team of specialists,” says Max Girardo, Managing Director of RM Sotheby’s Europe. “Tonnie is a true car guy and a natural fit with our team. Well-respected in car circles, his deep knowledge of the industry, coupled with his extensive network of contacts and strong business acumen make him a valuable addition as we further expand our reach and accessibility in key markets.”

Tonnie comments, “After many years working with RM Sotheby’s on the client side, I’m thrilled to officially join their global team, which I strongly believe is the best in the business. RM boasts a great team of professionals, and I share their passion for the automotive lifestyle. Their commitment to delivering the very best in customer service is something that always impressed me as a client, and I’m excited to now be part of it as we work together to further grow the RM brand.”

Comprised of 20 individuals worldwide, RM Sotheby’s dedicated team of car specialists is the largest in the collector car industry. Collectively, the group offers more than 500 years combined experience buying, selling, racing and restoring, making them uniquely qualified to advise on all aspects of the hobby. Their knowledge, commitment to the client, and proven ability to locate the world’s finest motor cars and then find engaged and ready buyers, is unsurpassed in the industry.

Tonnie van der Velden is based in the Netherlands, working closely with RM Sotheby’s London office. To contact van der Velden or to discuss consignment opportunities, please call +31 653 84 19 60 or email tvandervelden@rmsothebys.com.