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8 BARRETT-JACKSON EXPERIENCE WINTER 2024Craig Jackson’s VIEW FROM THE BLOCKI often reflect on how time seems to go by so quickly.All of us seem to be busy these days. In my life, it’s important to notice when I need to just take a moment to relax. Taking time away can bring new clarity and focus for all the things that matter in life. For me, driving provides an escape from the hectic life so many of us lead. Turning my phone on silent when I get behind the wheel serves as a symbolic act of disconnecting from the external world. The sound of the engine becomes the soundtrack, drowning out the noise and allowing my thoughts to settle. That’s why one of my favorite ways to recharge is – you guessed it – hitting the open road or taking laps on the track.Recently I took part in the Bugatti Grand Tour America, embarking on a journey through Utah and Colorado in my new Chiron (top left, right and center left). It was a break that reminded me of summer spent in my youth – a welcome pause from my daily obligations, an opportunity to rekindle connections with fellow car enthusiasts and forge new friendships. It’s get-togethers like these that reinforce my passion for what I do, emphasizing the joy found in the journey itself.For avid car enthusiasts, finding a moment away often involves immersing themselves in a passion that transcends the ordinary. One such avenue for so many is attending Barrett-Jackson.Barrett-Jackson auctions are not merely events; they are experiences that resonate with the very essence of the automotive hobby. Our auctions are renowned for showcasing an extraordinary array of classic and iconic vehicles, creating an atmosphere where automotive history comes to life. Enthusiasts from all walks of life gather and witness the spectacular at Barrett-Jackson, creating an amazing community bound by a shared love for collector cars.Beyond the cars themselves, the auctions foster a sense of camaraderie. It’s a social gathering where conversations flow easily, friendships are established, and knowledge is exchanged. Whether discussing the intricacies of engine specifications, sharing restoration stories or simply admiring a particular vehicle, attendees connect on a level that goes beyond the surface.This upcoming 2024 Scottsdale Auction will hold a special place in my heart, marked by the sale of seven cars from the personal collection of Don Williams (lower right). Don, a cherished friend and mentor – as well as a worldrenowned car collector and restorer - was truly part of the BarrettJackson family. Among the seven vehicles that are the last of his collection that will be on offer is the remarkable 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio (bottom left), a car that has been in Don’s possession since the late 1980s, and one that I hold in high regard.A stunning complement to that early Bugatti but equally impressive is a 2018 Bugatti Chiron (center), which Don would have wholeheartedly appreciated. Featuring exposed carbon fiber, this Bugatti not only captivates with its aesthetic but also symbolizes Bugatti’s remarkable technological advancements. The awe-inspiring W16 engine, showcases Bugatti’s longstanding engineering prowess, seamlessly combines two 15-degree V8s in a side-by-side arrangement, resulting in a commanding 90-degree configuration that unleashes a speed-defying 1,500 horsepower.As we navigate our busy lives, our automotive pursuits offer not just an escape but a profound reminder of our passion, connection and the shared appreciation for the extraordinary. It’s a call to cherish the moments, whether on the open road, on the track or amidst the electric atmosphere of a Barrett-Jackson auction.I’m looking forward to seeing each of you in January - it’s the perfect opportunity to share what drives us!---With Craig at the helm, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is celebrating over 50 successful years in the collector car hobby. He is an avid car collector, award-winning restorer and racing enthusiast. ON THE OPEN ROAD