Why you care about my 10th trip to Pebble Beach
This felt like the perfect moment, Monterey Car Week, to officially launch My Car Expert, a collector car advisory and brokerage service built to help serious enthusiasts and private clients.
Market Highlights from Monterey Car Week 2025
Over just four days, more than $432.8 million changed hands across five major auction houses: Gooding & Co., RM Sotheby’s, Mecum, Broad Arrow, and Bonhams. Not to mention the private transactions that occur via vendors like, Singer Vehicle Design, Canepa, and many highly regarded restorers. That total makes 2025 the second most successful Monterey auction week in history, behind only 2022’s record-breaking $471.2 million.
In a continued shift, online car auctions like Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, and Collecting Cars are now going toe-to-toe with traditional live auctions. 2024 marked the first year where digital outpaced in-person. In 2025, it looks like the trend held strong. This reinforces what clients already sense, buying and selling collector cars online is not just acceptable, it is now a primary channel.
Atmosphere and Attendance
Traffic and air travel were both noticeably down this year, which actually made getting around Monterey far more manageable. Without gridlock, the week felt relaxed again. Auction tents were less crowded, but more focused. The energy reminded me of the pre-COVID years. Serious buyers showed up, and real conversations were happening.
What’s Hot: RUF and Ferrari
RUF automobiles are finally receiving the recognition they deserve. No longer just “tuner Porsches,” RUFs are now appreciated for what they are hand-built, performance-focused collectibles. Values are rising fast, and interest among younger collectors is growing.
Meanwhile, Ferrari models continue to dominate the high-end collector market. Multiple record sales were set this year. Iconic examples like the 250 GT SWB, 288 GTO, and even newer modern-classic Ferraris drew aggressive bidding. If you are wondering whether now is a good time to buy a Ferrari, the answer depends on your goals, but the data shows momentum is strong.
But I bet heavy on Mercedes
The one brand that shows up everywhere, with true pedigree, and staying power. Heck they not only invented the car, (sorry Ford) but made a significant display at the western Mecca. Let’s only hope AMG gets back to their roots, ehem, V8s.
Must-See Event: Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
If you are a seasoned Monterey Car Week attendee, do one thing, make it to the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. This is where you see historic race cars in action, not just parked on a lawn.
My recommendation? Get the 1957 Club pass. It comes with a shaded viewing area, free food and drinks, and a perfect vantage point for the Corkscrew. You get close to the cars, close to the action, and far from the chaos.
Want to Buy or Sell a Collector or Exotic Car?
Whether you’re considering buying your first vintage Ferrari or planning to discreetly sell a rare Porsche, My Car Expert provides brokerage services and vehicle acquisition consulting designed to protect your time, investment, and reputation.
As a fully compliant non-dealer vehicle brokerage, I help clients navigate online auctions, private listings, and off-market opportunities with confidence.
Follow along for expert analysis, rare cars, and insider access.
Need help finding your next collector car or selling a vehicle discreetly? Let’s talk.
