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What makes a car go from a simple mode of transportation to a coveted collector's item worth millions? In Episode 2 of Incomplete, Aaron sits down with Harvey Stanley, UK Director of Sales at RM Sotheby’s, to explore the fascinating world of classic and collectible cars.
From childhood memories of tracing car outlines in books to selling his first BMW 507 at just 16, Harvey’s journey into the world of luxury automotive sales is anything but ordinary. With a lifelong passion for cars and racing, he’s now at the forefront of one of the world’s leading auction houses, dealing with the most sought-after cars in history.
The Intersection of Emotion and Value
Much like medals (Episode 1), cars hold stories. As Harvey explains, provenance and historical significance often dictate value. A Ferrari driven by Michael Schumacher to multiple victories will fetch significantly more than an identical model used only for testing. Just as Mark Smith discussed the importance of the story behind military medals in Episode 1, Harvey sheds light on how the narratives behind cars shape their worth.
“The car market is not just about horsepower and design—it’s about legacy,” Harvey notes. He shares why the Ferrari F40, the last model personally overseen by Enzo Ferrari, holds a place in history as one of the greatest cars ever made despite its flaws. "It's not the greatest car, it's not the best car, it's not the fastest car around a racetrack... In fact, I have been lucky enough to drive them on track, and I don't particularly enjoy it. And it's deeply flawed. But it's probably the car I would go to first if you said, 'Look, you've got to buy one car to have forever.' And actually, strangely, it's because it's flawed."
From Collecting to Experiencing
The world of car collecting is changing. Traditionally, collectors aimed to complete a series or own a representative model from each decade. Now, many enthusiasts are more focused on usability. Harvey has noticed a shift toward cars that fit into an owner’s lifestyle—whether it’s driving through the countryside, racing at Goodwood, or simply making the mundane extraordinary.
“Special cars turn everyday moments into something remarkable,” he says, recalling a conversation where he was told, “Drink a fine wine on a random Tuesday—it makes the ordinary unforgettable.” He believes the same applies to cars: instead of keeping them locked away, their true magic lies in driving them.
Finding the Next Automotive Treasure
From multimillion-dollar Ferraris to hidden gems in remote locations, Harvey shares incredible stories of discovering rare vehicles. He recounts pulling forgotten classics from Venezuela’s borderlands and how RM Sotheby's orchestrated the sale of an entire junkyard of lost automotive history in LA. Whether it’s a historic Le Mans winner or a rust-covered Porsche waiting to be restored, these stories remind us that car collecting is about more than just metal—it’s about passion and adventure.
Getting Started in Car Collecting
For those looking to begin their journey, Harvey offers invaluable advice: start with the best example you can afford rather than stretching for an imperfect dream car. And above all, use it. “Enjoy the community, drive the car, and add to its story,” he says.
In a world where electric cars and automation are shaping the future, classic car collecting remains a deeply personal and emotional pursuit. Whether you own a rare Ferrari or a cherished model car, the connection between people and their vehicles remains timeless.
Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of collectible cars with Harvey Stanley. Listen to Incomplete Episode 2 now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch it on YouTube.
