First Collector Car Auction of The Year, Barrett-Jackson Gauges the Market

Barrett-Jackson's auction in Scottsdale, January 15 to 22 is famous for moving a wide variety of cars, including exclusive rarefied vintage racers to bone fide muscle cars.

The gist is Barrett-Jackson is a good auction event to get a feel of where the collector car market is with 250,000 visitors anticipating 1,000 collector cars hitting the auction block. It's also the first of the year and will give you an idea of where the market is going. Don’t forget to visit the exhibitors booths who will show you anything car-related collectable items, some of which will surprise you.

What To See. First things first, download and study the floor plan well before going. Wear comfortable shows, you will be walking. Sunday kicks off with a Ford and GM ride-and-drive, amongst other events. Monday continues the festivities but on Tuesday, you will not want to miss the Automobilia Auction, where you will find almost anything under the sun collectibles ranging from trinkets to niceties, to necessities. Then, the first Collector Car Auction happens. Now, the fun begins as anticipation rises and bidding flare.

What Cars Will Go on The Block? The list shows some impressive cars, including a 4,149 original low miles, 1954 Mercedes Gullwing, a 1935 Delahaye 135 MS Prototype with its straight 6 cylinder 3.5L engine, as well as an intriguing a 1955 Flajole Forerunner Coupe concept, to name a few interesting cars.

What there is to like most about a Barrett-Jackson auction are the people you will meet and the information you will receive. If you are a serious car collector, you will find plenty to debate whether or not to increase, or decrease you current collection. If you are new to the collector car field, or want to test the water, this auction is a great way to get started, understand the ins and outs of the tricky collector car market. The next few recommendations will let you do most of the beginning leg work to gauge whether or not the particular vehicle you are interested is worthwhile or not. You will need a small flash-light and a plastic protected magnet to help you sort out the bondos blues and other hidden surprises. Have a specialist inspect the car. It saves money in the long run. Study the catalog well before in order to not waste time and of course, set your budget and stick to it. Spend some time at the insurance booths, as they will surely enlighten you as to more cost effective and better ways to insure you prized vehicles. A great point of reference is the Sports Car Market magazine, an invaluable source of information that will save you time, headaches and money, as well as the Barret-Jackson website.