A quartet of exquisite British classics from a revered private collection is poised to capture the spotlight at H&H Classics’ inaugural auction at the prestigious UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. Scheduled for Wednesday, 25th June, the landmark Millbrook Sale will see four significant examples of British automotive craftsmanship — spanning the 1930s to the 1970s — go under the hammer as part of The Merlin Collection.
This carefully curated offering showcases the collector’s passion not only for vintage motoring, but also for aviation — hence the collection’s name, referencing the legendary Rolls-Royce Merlin aero engine. Each vehicle has been fastidiously preserved or restored, representing the pinnacle of its era.
Rare Bentley Headlines the Line-Up
Leading the charge is a 1957 Bentley S1 Continental HJ Mulliner Fastback, an automotive masterpiece that exemplifies post-war British luxury and elegance. One of only 97 right-hand drive examples adorned with H.J. Mulliner’s celebrated Design Number 7400, this Continental has undergone an exacting, chassis-up restoration by Richards of England and Padgett Motor Engineers between 2016 and 2019.
Described by Damian Jones, Director at H&H Classics, as possibly “the best on the market, regardless of price,” this striking Bentley carries a guide price of £250,000–£300,000, and is certain to be a magnet for collectors seeking rarity and provenance in equal measure.
E-Type V12: Beauty Meets Brawn
Also drawing considerable attention is a 1974 Jaguar E-Type V12 Roadster, presented in a rare and visually arresting Turquoise over Terracotta leather colour scheme. Understood to be one of only two such right-hand drive examples produced, this low-mileage stunner — showing fewer than 20,000 miles — boasts its original Black vinyl roof and retains much of its factory paintwork.
Offered with a pre-sale estimate of £80,000–£100,000, this Series III Roadster is lauded by H&H for its drivability and exceptional condition — a true collector’s dream that balances power, poise and preservation.
Silver Cloud III: Open-Top Grandeur
From the mid-1960s comes a 1964 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Drophead Coupe, a commanding presence with its elegant lines and two-tone finish. Having undergone a documented 30-month restoration and Drophead Coupe conversion by Viktor Valker at VTG Group, the car has also been reunited with its original registration number.
Estimated at £90,000–£110,000, this hand-built Rolls-Royce is poised to attract connoisseurs of British coachbuilding who appreciate understated glamour and timeless engineering.
The Derby Bentley: A Pre-War Gem
The earliest and perhaps most historically significant of the collection is a remarkably well-preserved 1937 Bentley 3½ Litre Vanden Plas Drophead Coupe. With just 16,000 miles from new and presented in astonishingly original condition, this Derby Bentley offers an unmatched time capsule experience. It comes complete with an extensive history file, including its original Bentley Motors Guarantee, a continuation buff logbook and period MOT certificates.
Damian Jones commented: “This is probably the most original and best conserved Derby Bentley we have ever encountered. It’s an honour to present it at our first Millbrook Sale.” The car carries an estimate of £80,000–£100,000.
A New Chapter at Millbrook
Set against the backdrop of the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground — a venue steeped in engineering excellence — the Millbrook Sale marks an exciting new chapter for H&H Classics. All four Merlin Collection vehicles will be available for inspection on Tuesday 24th June from midday, and from 9am on sale day, with the auction officially beginning at 12pm on Wednesday 25th June.
Interested buyers can participate in person, online, via telephone or by placing a commission bid. Full details and registration information are available at www.handh.co.uk.
For discerning collectors, this sale offers a rare opportunity to acquire some of the finest examples of British motoring heritage — each car a lasting symbol of craftsmanship, legacy and enduring appeal.
