In the 1930s and 1940s, loud, fast racecars were entertaining the masses, allowing automobile manufacturers to show their engineering prowess and providing a way for wealthy sportsmen to get their kicks. But automobile racing wasn’t the only show in town. Championship speed boat competition, in the form of nautical circuit racing, endurance racing and flat-out top speed record chasing were popular the world over.
This intricate model kit is not for novices, but will reward a patient and careful modeller with the best scale engine model most have ever seen. The kit includes miniature nut drivers, but will also require some drilling, light filing and a gel type CA glue (superglue) to complete.
The expertise of Enzo Ferrari has left its stamp on the speedboat, which is powered by a 12-cylinder 5.5-liter Ferrari V12, which was also used by the Type 375 Grand Prix car.
The current owner acquired the racing boat over 20 years ago, restoring it to concours condition. ARNO XI has been in the water many times since and is not only an impressive sight when seen in action but also sounds magnificent.
Well-documented, its sale is accompanied by an extensive history file including numerous period photographs and hand-written notes from the great Ferrari engineer, Colombo, during tests on Lake Iseo and during bench testing at Ferrari's Maranello factory. This remarkable and unique machine is estimated to achieve between €1.000.000 - €1.500.000 when it crosses the auction podium in May.
