Founded in 1903 by Louis Delaunay and Marius Barbarou, Automobiles Delaunay-Belleville was one of the premier constructors of automobiles in France prior to WWI. Drawing from his experience working for both Clément and Benz, Barbarou was responsible for the styling of the rounded grille synonymous with Delaunay-Belleville automobiles. The company also premiered a number of engineering feats for France, such as a pressure-fed oiling system for the engine’s camshaft, water cooled brakes, and an inline six-cylinder engine.

Delaunay-Belleville’s grand design and innovative technological breakthroughs caught the attention of Emperor Nicholas II of Russia, who promptly ordered a 40 hp model. The company was so taken by his royal interest that the 70 hp model became known as Sa Majesté le Tsar in his honor.

This elegant Delaunay-Belleville, chassis 6743, was in the French collection of Corine Lambert in 1985, and the Swiss collection of Peter Aeschlimann in 1998, before joining the Mullin Collection in 2006. Adorned with handsome Rothschild et Fils Landaulet coachwork, this Delaunay-Belleville would be welcome at concours events throughout the US and Europe.

*Please note that all of the Lots in this Auction have been in long-term static storage at the Mullin Automotive Museum and may not be currently operational. They will require mechanical attention and in some cases significant restoration prior to any road use.