The fascinating story behind the Palmen Barn find Collection
Mr. Palmen started collecting cars approximately 40 years ago with a yellow Lancia B20 being the first car. Over the years his collection grew substantially.
The variety is more than eclectic. He had a refined taste and extensive knowledge of rare and special cars as he was professionally dealing in similar cars from the mid 60’s before he started collecting.
The collection was stored in a church and two dry but dusty warehouses
Mr. Palmen was starting the cars on a regular basis to keep the engines from being seized. Most of the collection is in an unrestored and original condition. He kept the cars how they were when entering his warehouses and he almost did not sell anything after it was added to his collection.
He rarely showed the collection to anyone, so very few people knew of its existence. The maintenance was mostly done by himself. You can definitely call it one of the best kept secret car collections of Europe.
A love for many marques
Mr. Palmen loved Italian cars like Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Maserati and Ferrari. Plus, French Facel Vega’s and German BMW’s, Mercedes, and NSU’s. The British are well represented with Jaguars, Aston Martins, and Rolls-Royces, while American classics include Chevrolets, Cadillacs, and Fords. The collection also features Tatra, Monica, Moretti, Matra, Alvis, Imperia, and Villard.
In total there are more than 230 cars brought together in the main warehouse.
Due to the age of Mr. Palmen and various circumstances the collection will now be sold. We hope the new owners will cherish them as much as he did. It is unlikely that anyone will ever see a collection of this caliber and condition again in their lifetime.
Words and Images: Classic Car Auctions
www.classiccar-auctions.com/palmen
John T. (JohnTallodi)
Member since March 2018
ClassicCarPassion ZA Founding Member Motoring Journalist
