Ralph Lauren is a name synonymous with style, sophistication, and impeccable taste. As one of the most iconic fashion designers of our time, Lauren has built a brand that embodies timeless elegance. Beyond his influence in fashion, Lauren’s passion extends to the automotive world, where his collection of rare and exotic cars rivals the finest museums. Among his prized possessions is one of the rarest and most celebrated automobiles in history: the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe. Owning one of only three surviving models, Lauren’s Bugatti is more than a car—it’s a masterpiece of design, engineering, and historical significance.

The Bugatti 57SC Atlantic: A Brief History

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and significant cars ever created. Designed by Jean Bugatti, son of the legendary Ettore Bugatti, the Atlantic debuted in the mid-1930s as a radical departure from the automotive norms of its era. Only four were ever built between 1936 and 1938, and today, just three are known to exist.

A Revolutionary Design

The 57SC Atlantic is instantly recognizable by its distinctive teardrop shape, long hood, and dramatic rear fenders. Its design was inspired by the Aérolithe, a concept car built by Bugatti in 1935 that utilized magnesium alloy panels riveted together along a prominent dorsal seam. While the production Atlantics used aluminum instead of magnesium, Jean Bugatti retained the riveted spine, giving the car its signature aesthetic.

The Atlantic was not just a marvel of design; it was also a technological triumph. Powered by a supercharged 3.3-liter inline-eight engine, the 57SC (the “C” denoting its compressor) could reach speeds of over 120 mph—an extraordinary feat in the 1930s. It was one of the first supercars, combining performance, luxury, and artistic vision.

Rarity and Legacy

The four original Atlantics were custom-built for wealthy patrons, making each one unique. Today, only three survive:

1.Chassis 57374 resides in the Mullin Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, previously owned by Dr. Peter Williamson and sold for an estimated $40 million in 2010.

2.Chassis 57591, owned by Ralph Lauren, is considered the most pristine example, having undergone meticulous restoration.

3.The third surviving Atlantic is part of an unnamed private collection, while the fourth was tragically destroyed in a train accident in the 1950s.

Ralph Lauren’s Bugatti 57SC Atlantic: A Jewel in His Collection

Lauren’s Bugatti 57SC Atlantic, chassis number 57591, is a masterpiece of preservation and restoration. Originally delivered to British barrister Richard B. Pope in 1938, the car remained in exceptional condition throughout its life. Lauren acquired it in 1988, recognizing its significance as an icon of automotive and design history.

Restoration and Preservation

Upon purchasing the Atlantic, Lauren commissioned a meticulous restoration to ensure the car retained its original specifications and elegance. The restoration was handled by Paul Russell and Company, a world-renowned specialist in vintage cars. Every detail, from the riveted aluminum body to the hand-finished interior, was carefully examined and restored to its original glory.

The result is a car that not only looks as stunning as it did in 1938 but also functions flawlessly. Lauren’s Atlantic has been showcased at prestigious events such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it won the coveted “Best of Show” award in 1990—a testament to its impeccable condition and historical significance.

A Testament to Design Excellence

For Ralph Lauren, the Bugatti 57SC Atlantic represents more than just an automotive achievement—it embodies his philosophy of design. Known for his attention to detail and appreciation for timeless aesthetics, Lauren sees parallels between the Atlantic’s artistry and his work in fashion. Both celebrate form and function, elegance and innovation.

The Atlantic’s Cultural and Financial Significance

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic holds a near-mythical status in the automotive world. Its rarity, beauty, and historical importance make it one of the most sought-after cars among collectors. Experts estimate its value at over $100 million, though its true worth extends far beyond monetary measures.

An Icon of Pre-War Elegance

The Atlantic symbolizes the height of pre-war automotive craftsmanship. Created during a time of great social and technological change, the car represents a blend of artistry and innovation rarely seen in automotive history. Its streamlined design and pioneering engineering set a standard that continues to inspire carmakers today.

Ralph Lauren’s Vision

Lauren’s ownership of the Atlantic further elevates its cultural significance. As a tastemaker and patron of the arts, Lauren uses his collection to bridge the worlds of fashion, design, and engineering. The Atlantic is often displayed alongside other rare cars from his collection, which includes Ferraris, Jaguars, and Porsches, in exhibitions that celebrate the intersection of art and mechanics.

A Timeless Investment

The Bugatti 57SC Atlantic is also a symbol of the enduring value of fine craftsmanship. Unlike many luxury items that depreciate over time, the Atlantic has appreciated significantly, reflecting its rarity and desirability. For Lauren, the car is not just a piece of history—it’s a legacy.

Ralph Lauren’s Car Collection: A Testament to Passion

The Atlantic is just one jewel in Ralph Lauren’s extraordinary car collection, which includes over 60 rare and vintage automobiles. Each car in his collection is chosen not just for its rarity but for its design, history, and impact on automotive culture.

A Curated Collection

Lauren’s collection is often described as a “rolling museum.” It includes:

•The 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Mille Miglia, another pre-war masterpiece.

•The Ferrari 250 GTO, one of the most valuable cars in the world.

•The McLaren F1, a modern supercar known for its groundbreaking engineering.

Lauren’s approach to collecting mirrors his philosophy in fashion: an appreciation for timeless design and uncompromising quality.

Public Exhibitions

In 2011, Lauren shared his collection with the world through an exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. Titled L’Art de l’Automobile: Masterpieces from the Ralph Lauren Collection, the exhibit featured 17 cars, including the Bugatti 57SC Atlantic. This rare glimpse into Lauren’s collection underscored his commitment to preserving and celebrating automotive history.

The Bugatti 57SC Atlantic: Beyond the Car

Ralph Lauren’s Bugatti 57SC Atlantic is more than just an automobile; it is a symbol of human ingenuity, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. From its aerodynamic curves to its mechanical precision, the Atlantic represents the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship.

For Lauren, the car is a source of inspiration—a reminder that great design transcends time and discipline. Whether in fashion or automotive engineering, the principles of beauty, functionality, and innovation remain universal.

The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is a rare gem in the world of luxury automobiles, and Ralph Lauren’s ownership of one of the three surviving examples only adds to its mystique. Through his stewardship, Lauren ensures that this piece of history continues to inspire and captivate future generations.

In the Atlantic, we see the convergence of art and engineering, tradition and innovation. It is a car that embodies the spirit of its era while remaining timeless—a fitting symbol for a man who has dedicated his life to celebrating beauty in all its forms. For Ralph Lauren, the Bugatti 57SC Atlantic is not just a car; it is a testament to the enduring power of great design.

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