The 2024 Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance: A Perfect Car Show with a Perfect Watch Connection
Once again, the annual Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week wowed East Coast (and far flung) car lovers with an unparalleled series of vintage car parades, displays, luxury lifestyle gatherings, rare auto auctions, seminars, and a plenitude of other events earlier this month.
More to the Watchonista point, however, this is the second year German watchmaker A. Lange & Söhne sponsored the event, adding this Newport show to its growing list of global classic car partnerships.
Exceptional Autos
While Best of Show awards at the Audrain Newport Concours d’Elegance generally go to very vintage saloons and more antique “gentlemen’s” automobiles, the 2024 award went to a super-sporty one-off 1959 Maserati 3500 GT Bertone Coupe.
With a body built by Franco Scaglione, the iconic chief designer of the coach-building legend Bertone, the Maserati 3.5-liter straight-six touring sportster cruised into the winners’ circle. Owner Jim Utaski proudly held the trophy aloft as he celebrated on the lawn of the legendary Breakers Mansion in Newport.
“Once again, we left everyone who attended inspired and in awe of the timeless elegance and enduring legacy of these magnificent vehicles, both four-and two-wheeled,” said Audrain CEO Donald Osborne.
“Our event not only celebrates the beauty and innovation of historic vehicles but also serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and cultural significance of the automotive industry, bridging the past with the present,” Osborne continued. “And our Best of Show winner wonderfully captures our theme of ‘History, Luxury & Sport’ in one vehicle.”
A Special Vibe
While the Audrain show, which just finished its fifth edition, grows every year, it still manages to hold onto its signature, low-key feel (especially when compared to other major auto concours events), despite comedian and late-night talk show legend Jay Leno being a frequent attendee.
This year, Leno was seen walking the show casually, sans entourage, like any other car aficionado. (However, we spotted him with Director of Product Development Anthony De Haas inspecting some timepieces at the A. Lange & Söhne hospitality area).
Another unique highlight this year was a special exhibition of various Range Rovers used by Queen Elizabeth II over the years. Some of the earlier versions, while customized for royal use, certainly define the rough-and-ready spirit of those automobiles.
Wrist Action
Of course, with A. Lange & Söhne as a sponsor, there were plenty of the maker’s latest horological masterpieces on display. But car events draw out all kinds of watch fans, as well. The intersection between vintage autos and fine timepieces is palpable.
Here is a gallery of some quick, casual wrist shots showing some impressive models (and this was just from one early morning watch-spotting session on the second day of the show):
(Photo credits: Ned Lawler @Shamrock Motoring Images, Joshua Sweeney @shootfordetails)