Preparation of Classic Cars for the Season
Mercedes-Benz 500K De Villars Carrosserie De Villars was founded in 1925 by Frank Jay Gould, an American billionaire who had settled in France in 1911. The company was based in Courbevoie, a suburb of Paris.Every automobile produced by the atelier was a unique creation — with body shapes and exteriors individually tailored to each client. The chassis used for De Villars’ bespoke bodies came primarily from French luxury marques such as Bugatti, Delage, and Delahaye, and occasionally from Minerva or Rolls-Royce.
Each build was strictly one-off. Clients included royal family members, noble heirs, and admirers of exceptional automobiles. The car of your dreams — crafted by us.
Carrosserie De Villars — French Elegance and Mastery
Carrosserie De Villars, one of the legendary French coachbuilders, left an indelible mark on the history of the automotive industry. Founded in the 1920s, the atelier specialized in creating luxurious custom bodies for exclusive cars commissioned by wealthy and influential clients. Over the decades, it became a symbol of excellence, craftsmanship, and refinement in the world of bespoke automobiles. De Villars was celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and distinctive style, blending elegance with aerodynamic precision in harmony with the design trends of its era. Their work was renowned for its refined proportions and flawless execution.The atelier gained international acclaim through collaborations with Mercedes-Benz, Delahaye, Talbot-Lago, and Bugatti. Every De Villars automobile was more than just a car — it was a work of art, individually built and endowed with a unique character.
The Iconic Mercedes-Benz 500K De Villars
Among the most famous creations of the atelier stands the Mercedes-Benz 500K De Villars.Built on the 500K chassis, it became a symbol of luxury, elegance, and power of the pre-war era. With its bespoke body handcrafted by De Villars, the car embodied aristocratic grace, speed, and grandeur.
It was showcased at prestigious motor shows and concours d’élégance events across Europe.
Design, Innovation, and Legacy
De Villars automobiles were distinguished not only by their aesthetic beauty but also by thoughtful interior ergonomics, rich materials, and advanced technology for their time.Clients commissioned unique designs reflecting their status, taste, and individuality, with every detail crafted to the highest standards. Sadly, after the Second World War, many independent coachbuilders — including De Villars — faced economic hardship due to the industrialization and mass production of automobiles.
Yet, the legacy of Carrosserie De Villars endures in collector cars, admired at prestigious auctions and private collections worldwide.
