Ornatus-Mundi
[Zenith]
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THAT's what I would call a start in style!
This Monday, 20th April, the 2015 edition of the Tour Auto was launched under the nave of the Grand Palais in Paris. It was a day dedicated to official unveilings and last-minute technical testing before the tarmac and dust of the road in this highly anticipated competition, departing from Paris on the 21st and set to arrive today in Biarritz.
Dear François, thank you so much for your splendid report on this fine event. Zenith really made a perfect choice with the Tour Auto. BTW, with its first edition in 1899, the Tour Auto is the oldest automotive challenge still running today.
First of all, there was the setting. Majestic. The Grand Palais and its breath-taking canopy, an architectural marvel, was also the historic backdrop to the Salon de l’Automobile from its first edition in 1901 until 1961.
Then, there were of course the cars - here in impression from the line-up and preparation - quite relaxed I guess!
There were some 233 vintage sports cars lined up on the grid: BMW, Ferrari, Porsche, Jaguar, Renault, Citroën, Lancia and Ford; all the biggest names were represented by their most fabled models. All were brands that took part in the Tour Auto between 1951 and 1979 – a condition for being accepted to participate.
There were also a number of guest stars. Each year, the organisers invite a particular type of car to race. For 2015, the roadster was chosen; a racing car that is instantly recognisable for its open, roofless and windscreen-free design. In total, five roadsters would form the starting pack; a 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondiale, a 1954 Osca 1500, a 1956 Porsche 550 A, a 1956 Lotus Eleven 1500 and a 1957 Maserati 200 SI no less – a true highlight for car enthusiasts!
Zenith sponsored two cars for this first time, a 1955 Mercedes 300 SL driven by Zenith ambassador Felix Baumgartner (see above), and a 1964 Jaguar E Type piloted by Daniel Spadini and Zenith CEO Aldo Magada (image: François):
Above all, there was the ambience! The vibrations and roar of the engines, the cheers of the spectators and enthusiasts, all brought together in one. Excited, amazed and intoxicated by the moment and the indescribable feeling of being there, in the middle of all this hubbub, conscious of being part of a truly unique experience together. A magical event!
Zenith, being named as the official timekeeper of the competition, set a noter highlight with presenting of the El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Tour Auto Edition , specially designed for the event. This luxury model with a sporty feel and automotive inspiration embodies all the expertise of Zenith. Designed to be a benchmark chronograph for drivers and classic car enthusiasts alike, the El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Tour Auto Edition is produced as a limited edition of only 500 pieces.
My personal review is to be found here !
Please also note we have posted a few videos of the event:
Impressions from the start:
The race in full swing:
Notes from the cockpit:
So, on your marks for this spectacular race, which will feature stages in Clermont-Ferrance (22 April), Toulouse (23 April), Pau (24 April) and Biarritz (25 April).
I am sure François will report back very soon!
Best,
Magnus
More posts:
On the starting line of the Tour Auto with Zenith at the Grand Palais in Paris
I was very happy to attend the event organized yesterday at the Grand Palais which can be considered as the starting line of the Tour Auto. It is always the same story every year: what an impressive gathering of classic cars in such beautiful scenery! I w...
At the Start and the End?
FrX So, how does being a spectator work? Or are you a participant? Having to be at the Start in Paris and at the End in Biarritz? Who is this Edmond de Rothschild whose name is on every racing plate on the cars? Optic 2000 is easier to understand as they ...
THAT's what I would call a start in style!
This Monday, 20th April, the 2015 edition of the Tour Auto was launched under the nave of the Grand Palais in Paris. It was a day dedicated to official unveilings and last-minute technical testing before the tarmac and dust of the road in this highly anti...
Vintage cars and watches...
...the best combination I can think of ! great report, I wish you could have been there. One day I shall plan for it. thanks for the report, it was a feast for the eyes to see all these wonderful cars in such an outstanding environment. Best Stefan
