Broad Arrow Auctions, a Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY) company, is set to offer one of the finest surviving examples of the legendary Jaguar D-Type at its inaugural Zürich Auction on 1 November 2025, in partnership with Auto Zürich. Taking place at the world-renowned Dolder Grand hotel, the sale will bring together some of the world’s most coveted collector cars—but few will command the same attention as chassis XKD 551.
One of just 71 D-Types built, this short-nose 1956 example is among the last produced and stands apart for its extraordinary originality and history. Unlike the majority of its siblings, XKD 551 never saw the rigours of competitive motorsport, a fact that dramatically elevates its desirability in collector circles. Presented with matching engine and chassis numbers and estimated to fetch between CHF 5’250’000 and 6’250’000, it represents a rare chance to acquire a D-Type in near-pristine form.
An Untouched Icon with a Distinguished Past
Completed in 1956, XKD 551 was delivered to its first private owner in October 1957. Instead of heading straight for the track, the car was sympathetically converted to semi-XKSS specification—removing the central bulkhead, adding a passenger door, and fitting a full-width windscreen. In 1963, the D-Type passed into the hands of Hon. James Dawnay, well known for his ownership and racing of the Aston Martin DBR1/1, before being sold to Australian Formula 1 driver Paul Hawkins.
In the 1970s, a subsequent owner reversed the XKSS-style modifications, returning XKD 551 to its original D-Type configuration. The car ultimately joined its current Swiss custodian’s collection in 1994. In the decades since, it has been meticulously maintained and preserved—its original 3.4-litre XK inline-six engine (no. E 2070-9) removed for safekeeping and rebuilt in 2005, before being reunited with the chassis only recently. In preparation for the upcoming sale, the car was treated to a specialist service by Switzerland’s Graber Sportgarage.
Rarity Meets Eligibility
Beyond its rarity and untouched competition history, XKD 551 comes with an enviable array of historic documentation, including an FIA Historical Identity Form (1992), FIA Passport (2009), and FIVA Identity Card (2012). It is also eligible for a host of prestigious historic motorsport events such as the Goodwood Revival, Silverstone Classic, Mille Miglia Storica, Le Mans Classic, Monaco Historic Grand Prix, and Spa Classic.
“We are extremely honoured to have been granted the opportunity to offer this incredible Jaguar D-Type at our first Zürich Auction,” says Yves Boitel, Car Specialist, EMEA, at Broad Arrow Auctions. “The fact that this car has never been used competitively and has been meticulously cared for throughout its life makes it one of the most exceptional D-Types in existence.”
Paul Gaucher, Head of Consignments for Switzerland at Broad Arrow Auctions, adds: “The addition of this truly superb example will undoubtedly add to the excitement among international collectors. There is plenty more to come, and we can’t wait to reveal additional models joining the catalogue soon.”
With its remarkable provenance, unblemished competition record, and impeccable condition, XKD 551 is more than just a collector’s dream—it’s a rare opportunity to own a chapter of Jaguar’s motorsport legacy in its purest form.
More information about the Zürich Auction, including full consignment details, can be found at broadarrowauctions.com.
