PROVENANCE
Lee Williams, Orlando, Florida (acquired new in August 1974 from Baker Motor Company)
Michael Bruno Jr., Rye, New York (acquired from the above in 1998)
Thomas Luciano, Long Branch, New Jersey (acquired in 1999)
Peter Hosmer, Rye, New Hampshire (acquired circa 2009)
Current Owner (acquired from the above)

EXHIBITED
Palm Beach Cavallino Classic, January 2014

LITERATURE
Matthias Bartz, Dino Compendium, chassis no. listed on p. 389

THIS CAR
Completed at the Ferrari factory in February 1974, this late-production Tipo E Dino is a very special example that possesses a comprehensively documented history, a desirable combination of optional features, and a superb presentation throughout.

Originally finished in Nocciola Metallizzato (106-M-27) with black Connolly leather upholstery, this 246 GTS was destined for the US market and suitably equipped with Cromadora wheels, instrumentation in miles, air-conditioning, and electric windows. According to Matthias Bartz’s definitive Dino Compendium, just 72 Dinos were painted in Nocciola Metallizzato, a striking optional color available for Ferraris throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Upon completion, 07798 was delivered to Ferrari’s official North American distributor Luigi Chinetti Motors in Greenwich, Connecticut, which sold the Dino to the Baker Motor Company of Atlanta, Georgia, in August 1974. On August 9, 1974, the 246 GTS was sold for the then-princely sum of $17,850 to its first private owner, Lee H. Williams of Orlando, Florida.

Mr. Williams took excellent care of his new Ferrari, driving it sparingly until 1983, at which time it was retired to the security of his home garage. Over the next decade, the Dino was carefully stored, kept on jack stands, and regularly detailed, thereby preserving it in outstanding condition. When Mr. Williams finally decided to put his beloved car on the market in 1997, it was described as an 11,450-mile “ ‘one-owner’ car with unquestionable lineage, capable of winning a ‘preservation award’ at any Ferrari Owners Club event.”

Since its sale in 1998 to Michael Bruno Jr. of Rye, New York, 07798 has continued to reside in the care of knowledgeable East Coast collectors. Today, this attractive 246 GTS presents very well and shows approximately 20,200 miles on the odometer, a figure that is documented by numerous records and consistent with the car’s minimal use.

Offered with the sale of 07798 are its proper tool roll, jack kit, and the leather handbook folio containing the original owner’s manual, parts catalogue, warranty card, service book, and the consumer information pamphlet. Included in the car’s impressive documentation file are copies of the original invoice and sale contract between Baker Motor Company and Lee Williams, service invoices, and a history report compiled by Ferrari historian Marcel Massini.

Boasting an exceptional provenance, a superb original color scheme, low mileage, and a desirable combination of options and accessories, this late-production Tipo E 246 GTS is a particularly impressive Dino. For the collector in search of a visually distinctive and well-kept example of the iconic 246 GTS, a closer look at this fascinating car is well advised.