Stuttgart, Germany – The “Concours on Savile Row” event in London on May 22 and 23, 2024, will be a distinguished celebration of exceptional craftsmanship, uniting the worlds of bespoke tailoring and historic automobiles. Hosted on the iconic Savile Row, this event will showcase exquisite vehicles alongside the renowned tailoring expertise of Savile Row.
Mercedes-Benz Classic, in partnership with the bespoke tailor Henry Poole & Co, will present an array of remarkable vehicles, each exemplifying the brand’s storied history and commitment to innovation and quality. Featured prominently will be the Mercedes 75 hp Spider from 1907, a highly exclusive and sporty vehicle that highlights Mercedes-Benz’s enduring legacy of engineering excellence. Additionally, an authentic replica of the 1885 Daimler Reitwagen (“Riding Car”), recognized as the first motorcycle in history, will be on display, illustrating the pioneering spirit of Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach.
Among the highlights is the Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC, a modern marvel of bespoke craftsmanship and cutting-edge protection. This vehicle, part of the exclusive MANUFAKTUR program, showcases tailored luxury combined with VPAM VR10 level protection, embodying the pinnacle of individualized automotive excellence.
A Tribute to Precision Craftsmanship
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expresses the synergy between Mercedes-Benz and Savile Row: “The presentation of our Mercedes 75 hp Spider on Savile Row is a tribute to the precision craftsmanship and passion that is expressed in both our vehicles and high-quality tailoring. It is this attention to detail and the pursuit of perfection that unites Mercedes-Benz and Savile Row. Both inspire us to keep our heritage alive and to take it indefatigably into the future.”
Simon Cundey, Managing Director of Henry Poole & Co, shares this sentiment, highlighting the long-standing tradition of excellence shared by both brands: “We are looking forward to celebrating the heritage of our brands, Henry Poole since 1806 and Mercedes-Benz with its roots in 1886. Over the years we’ve both combined the very best of luxury quality and craftsmanship with expertise and service to our clients.”
Preserving Heritage and Authenticity
Mercedes-Benz Classic is dedicated to preserving the brand’s history through an extensive range of activities. The Mercedes-Benz Classic Centers, located in Germany and the USA, are leading institutions for the maintenance, repair, and restoration of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles, adhering to the highest manufacturer standards to ensure originality and authenticity.
In the spring of 2024, Mercedes-Benz Classic significantly expanded its workshop capacities in Germany, incorporating additional skilled specialists and enhancing its capabilities with an in-house saddlery and an extended metalworking department. This expansion ensures comprehensive services that combine technical expertise with historical authenticity, maintaining craftsmanship at the highest level.
Henry Poole & Co: A Legacy of Bespoke Tailoring
Henry Poole & Co, with over 200 years of history, remains a paragon of bespoke tailoring. Founded during the Napoleonic Wars, the tailor has earned 45 royal warrants and dressed illustrious clients including Sir Winston Churchill and Charles Dickens. Each garment is meticulously crafted on-site at 15 Savile Row, adhering to techniques and traditions passed down through generations.
Exhibiting Automotive Masterpieces
The Concours on Savile Row 2024 will feature notable historical vehicles:
Daimler Reitwagen (“Riding Car”), 1885
Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach’s pioneering creation, the Daimler Reitwagen, represents the genesis of the motorcycle. With a compact, upright-cylinder engine producing 0.37 kW (0.5 hp), this two-wheeler reached speeds up to 12 km/h, marking a significant milestone in automotive history.
Mercedes 75 hp Spider, 1907
The Mercedes 75 hp Spider is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s innovation and quality. Debuting in 1906, it was the first production car with a six-cylinder engine, boasting a displacement of 10.2 liters and an output of 59 kW (80 hp). This vehicle exemplifies the brand’s commitment to high-performance and luxury.
Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC
The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC combines luxurious comfort with maximum protection. Featuring the highest ballistic protection level for civilian vehicles (VPAM VR10), this model integrates bespoke craftsmanship and advanced security, catering to the needs of discerning clients who prioritize both luxury and safety.
The “Concours on Savile Row” is a unique event that celebrates the intersection of bespoke tailoring and historic automotive craftsmanship. Mercedes-Benz Classic and Henry Poole & Co exemplify a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and heritage, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of luxury and history.
