LONDON, 14 AUGUST 2025 – Collecting Cars, the leading online platform for buying and selling exceptional vehicles, today unveils Sealed Bids, a pioneering auction format designed to combine privacy, efficiency, and premium marketing for blue-chip collector cars. The inaugural seven-day auctions, running from 28 August to 4 September, will showcase a carefully curated selection of rare and highly sought-after vehicles, marking a bold evolution in the collector car marketplace.
Privacy and Discretion at the Forefront
Sealed Bids reimagines the traditional online auction with a focus on confidentiality and professionalism. Unlike conventional auctions, bid amounts remain entirely private: only each bidder knows their own position in the competition, and the final transaction price is disclosed solely to the winner. Participants remain anonymous until the auction closes, ensuring discretion and safeguarding the long-term value of the cars involved.
By combining this confidentiality with a streamlined, seven-day online format, Collecting Cars aims to provide a seamless, controlled environment for buyers and sellers alike, fostering trust and confidence in high-value transactions.
A Curated Collection of Exceptional Vehicles
Sealed Bids will feature just a handful of vehicles each month, each hand-selected for its collector appeal and suitability for discreet sale. The launch auction presents six extraordinary models, spanning modern supercars, limited-edition icons, and meticulously restored classics.
Tuthill SCRS – Leading the line-up is the first-ever Tuthill SCRS to be offered for sale, a bespoke creation inspired by the 1974 IROC racers and built on a 993-generation Porsche 911 platform. One of only 15 examples, this UK-based car features a 3.8-litre flat-six with RS flywheel, RSR throttle body, and Cup camshaft. Finished in striking Pascha Red with Stone Grey and two-tone Charcoal Grey/Ocean Green leather, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire a celebrated bespoke 911 that has been fully enjoyed rather than stored as a delivery-mileage showcase.
Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign (2021) – Also featured is a remarkable supercar from Switzerland, built in collaboration with Italdesign to celebrate 50 years of the GT-R nameplate and the Italian coachbuilder’s design legacy. Limited to just 19 examples, this GT-R50 combines Japanese engineering with Italian styling, producing a one-of-a-kind vehicle that continues to turn heads worldwide.
Lexus LFA (2012) – The Japanese exotic on offer is one of just 500 LFAs ever built. Based in Japan but eligible for USA re-import, it has covered 31,000 km and remains one of the most revered modern supercars, equally at home on the track, at concours events, or as part of an elite weekend collection.
Ferrari Highlights – No Collecting Cars auction would be complete without Ferrari, and Sealed Bids presents three exceptional examples:
- Ferrari 812 Competizione (2022) – A rare, unregistered right-hand-drive example with just 75 km. Finished in triple-layer Grigio Competizione with Giallo Fly accents and Nero interior, it features carbon-fibre options, suspension lift, front and rear cameras, and Apple CarPlay. With all 999 units sold prior to its 2021 launch, this nearly new example offers pre-registered bidders an unprecedented opportunity to secure a modern Ferrari rarity.
- Ferrari Dino 246 GT (1972) – Based in Australia and one of only 35 finished in Giallo Dino, this Dino has undergone a comprehensive restoration including full repaint, retrim with original-supplier materials, and mechanical overhaul by marque specialist Enzotech. Fewer than 500 right-hand-drive examples were ever produced, and this rare colour combination makes it a true standout for discerning collectors.
- Ferrari Dino 246 GTS (1973) – A UK-based, fully restored, open-top variant and class winner at a prestigious national concours. With only around 250 right-hand-drive GTS examples ever made, this car offers rarity, pedigree, and exceptional presentation in one package.
A Platform Designed for the Global Collector
Sealed Bids builds upon the established Collecting Cars auction platform, allowing vehicles to be marketed internationally while maintaining strict confidentiality. Only fully vetted buyers may participate, ensuring security and professionalism, while targeted marketing campaigns, preview periods, and pre-registration streamline the process. Unlike traditional auctions, winning bidders pay only the hammer price, with sellers agreeing to a pre-determined platform fee.
Edward Lovett, Founder of Collecting Cars, commented:
“Since 2019, Collecting Cars has grown into a leading global platform for exceptional vehicles. Feedback from our clients indicated a need for a format that blends market insight, professionalism, and privacy. Sealed Bids responds to this demand, offering collectors a discreet, structured environment to bid on rare and valuable cars with confidence.”
Preview Opportunities and Upcoming Events
In addition to the online auction, Collecting Cars will have a stand at Salon Privé Concours at Blenheim Palace from 27–29 August, showcasing the UK-based Tuthill SCRS and Ferrari Dino 246 GTS from the inaugural Sealed Bids line-up.
