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33The late Don Williams was always passionate about cars. Learning about prewar vehicles from an early age led him to become an expert in classic automobiles, with the ability to procure the utmost quality and extraordinary vehicles for his clientele. It's hardly a revelation that his private collection showcased an array of exceptional vehicles, among them the unique Mayfair-bodied 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K. In addition to that prewar gem, Barrett-Jackson takes pride in presenting six additional vehicles from Don Williams' personal collection, all to be sold with No Reserve during the 2024 Scottsdale Auction.One of the standout gems in this collection is the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio, bearing Chassis No. #57406, a cherished part of Williams' collection since 1988. Unveiling the narrative behind this timeless Bugatti, Kees Jansen, a renowned Bugatti historian, reveals that the Type 57 was meticulously crafted in April 1936 as a four-passenger Stelvio. This model featured the alluring cabriolet design conceived by Jean Bugatti, characterized by its striking pontoon fenders and an Atalante-inspired rounded tail.The original owner of the Type 57, R. Petit, took possession on August 8, 1936. Later owned by a Mr. Ferrand, the car underwent upgrades that included laterstyle headlamps integrated into the front fenders and spats over the rear wheels. Period photographs from the 1940s, included in with the sale, depict these features, authentically reminiscent of 1937-39 Bugattis. Additionally, the car received front \hydraulic brakes, a common upgrade for earlier cable-brake cars.Ferrand sold the Bugatti to Jacques Dufilho, a prominent actor residing in the Latin Quarter of Paris. In 1974, Dufilho transferred ownership to Alexander E. Ulmann, known for founding the 12 hours of Sebring, the American automotive endurance race, in December 1950. Ulmann drove the car without rear fender spats and refinished it in light blue and black. The Bugatti remained in his ownership until his passing in 1986.Under Williams' stewardship, the Bugatti was transformed it to its current state. The Ulmann two-tone royal blue and black \complemented by striking pale gray leather upholstery for a breathtaking contrast. Notably, the rear wheel \were reinstalled, and the wire wheels were chromed, reminiscent of the options available from Bugatti in 1937.THE TIMELESS AUTOMOBILES OF DON WILLIAMSA LEGACY ON WHEELS- - - “ONE OF MY FAVORITE CARS FROM DON’S PERSONAL COLLECTION OF IS THE BUGATTI,” SAID CRAIG JACKSON, CHAIRMAN ANDCEO OF BARRETT-JACKSON. “IT HAS A GREAT HISTORY AND DON RESTORED IT TO PERFECTION.” - - -