Collector Car Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Explore the exclusive world of collector cars tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families. Find out why collecting classic cars is a strategic asset and discover legendary collections like the Sam and Emily Mann Collection.

Award-winning Financial Advising

Robertson Stephens Wealth Management, LLC.

Explore the exclusive world of collector cars tailored for ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families. Find out why collecting classic cars is a strategic asset and discover legendary collections like the Sam and Emily Mann Collection.

Robertson Stephens paid no fee to obtain recognition but has paid licensing fees to reference its appearances on the Newsweek, USA Today, and FA Magazine rankings lists.

See Awards Disclosures

Essential Insights about Collector Cars

The Art and Strategy of Collector Car Ownership

Collector cars represent more than a hobby. They are unique financial assets that reflect taste, history, and prestige. For ultra-high-net-worth individuals, assembling a distinguished collection can be a strong addition to a portfolio.

What Cars Can You Collect? Understanding Market Desirability and Auction Dynamics

Ultra-high-net-worth collectors focus on vehicles with provenance, rarity, and condition. Desirable lots often include vintage European sports cars, limited-production classics, and historically significant models. Auction prices can vary widely, influenced by factors such as originality, documented history, and market trends. For example, provenance from prominent collections like Mann’s can substantially enhance value.

Notable Collections and What Makes Them Exceptional

One of the most celebrated assemblages is the Sam and Emily Mann Collection, featuring 22 extraordinary automobiles, including three Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Best of Show winners. Presented recently at Monterey, this collection exemplifies the pinnacle of thoughtful curation and investment quality.

Integrating Collector Cars within a Comprehensive Wealth Plan

A comprehensive, integrated wealth plan is essential to managing complex assets like collector cars. Sophisticated financial strategies, including tax optimization through Roth conversions, operate most effectively when aligned with a full picture of an individual’s financial life. Digital solutions from firms like Robertson Stephens Wealth Management offer real-time insights, combining expert advisory with technology to support well-informed decisions.

The Role of Robertson Stephens Wealth Management

Robertson Stephens helps ultra-high-net-worth families optimize their wealth to amplify its impact. Their wealth-planning services go beyond asset management to encompass time freedom, health, family continuity, and access to exclusive resources—the intangible assets that are often more valuable than money itself. Incorporating collector cars within this framework ensures your automotive passion aligns seamlessly with your broader legacy objectives.

Get your ultra high-net-worth guide

Download the brochure on Robertson Stephens to stay ahead.

Gooding Christie's.

Gooding Christie’s is one of the world’s leading auction houses for collector automobiles.

Combining decades of automotive expertise with Christie’s international reach and reputation, the company delivers exceptional auction results and provides collectors with access to some of the most desirable automobiles ever produced.

Through a commitment to quality, provenance, and meticulous curation, Gooding Christie’s has established itself as a trusted destination for buying and selling investment-grade collector cars, consistently achieving record-breaking sales and setting benchmarks within the global automotive auction market.

Bonhams Cars

Bonhams Cars is one of the world’s most established and prolific collector car auction divisions, renowned for offering the full spectrum of automotive treasures.

With a reputation for presenting world-class auctions featuring some of the rarest and most desirable motorcars ever produced, Bonhams Cars consistently achieves exceptional results, including numerous world-record sales.

The company provides expert valuation, advisory, consignment, and auction services to collectors, investors, museums, and enthusiasts worldwide.

RM Sotheby's

RM Sotheby’s is the world’s leading auction house for investment-grade collector automobiles, specializing in the sale of rare, historic, and highly desirable motorcars.

The company has established itself as a premier destination for collectors, investors, museums, and automotive enthusiasts.

RM Sotheby’s regularly presents exceptional vehicles ranging from pre-war classics and iconic racing cars to modern hypercars and limited-production collectibles, frequently achieving record-breaking auction results.

In addition to auctions, the company offers private sales, collection management, market analysis, and advisory services, helping clients acquire, preserve, and monetize some of the world’s most significant automotive assets.

1. Digital Solution for Your Wealth Management

Our Digital Solutions provide a transparent real-time view of your complete financial life By combining human expertise with advanced technology we empower you to make informed decisions with confidence through a seamless and intuitive digital experience

2. Why a Comprehensive Wealth Plan Is Your Most Imp...

Sophisticated strategies like Roth conversions only work within a sound overall plan Discover why a comprehensive integrated wealth plan is the real driver

3. Wealth Planning Overview

Wealth Planning is a comprehensive forward-looking service designed to align your financial resources with your most important life goals It goes beyond simple investment management to create a cohesive roadmap that connects every aspect of your financial life into one clear and actionable strategy

Don’t Just take our word for it

Exceptional Financial Advisory
Trusted wealth management firm with institutional-quality investment solutions
Elevate Your Wealth Management Experience
Achieve your objectives for today, for tomorrow, and across generations with our help faster.
We Are Your Fiduciary Partner
Get comprehensive wealth planning, and intelligent digital solutions for you and your family.

Testmonials

Testimonials provided by current clients of Robertson Stephens. Testimonials may not be representative of the experience of other customers and are no guarantee of future performance or success.

We have been clients of Michael Tierney for over 15 years. Michael stays well attuned to the various market issues and specifically follows strategists who have proven track records and philosophies. His frequent news emails have been especially helpful in keeping us informed of market happenings with his ongoing thoughts and educating us. On a more personal note, Michael has always been easily approachable, encouraging us to call anytime to answer questions or entertain ideas. There have also been personal business visits during which we appreciate Michael’s warmth and friendliness. His assistants through the years have also been very helpful in handling any necessary matters.

Client of over 15 years

Avi and his team have functioned as a private office for me, extending my capacities by managing my personal wealth and advising me on anything finance-related. Whenever I pose a question to them or ask them to handle a task, I know that it will be done promptly with consistent communication, the utmost skill, and great integrity. I could not have hired a better team. I don’t know what I would have done without Avi. When a sudden liquidity event completely transformed the scale of my wealth, Avi was there to help me navigate all of the new questions and opportunities. My prior wealth plan went out the window, and I had to make decisions about investing, taxes, estate lawyers, risk, charitable donations, supporting my family, and even personal security. Avi helped me navigate all those things, connecting me with the best possible advisors and giving me the support I needed to make informed decisions.

Client since 2019

Michael Tierney has been my family's financial advisor for many years. Throughout that time, Mike has always been professional and attentive. I genuinely believe that Mike cares about my family's future and financial well-being. Life has presented us with many challenges and Mike has been there to help us navigate the difficulties. I would not hesitate to recommend working with Mike Tierney.

Client of over 10 years

Get your ultra high-net-worth guide

Download the brochure on Robertson Stephens to stay ahead.

Questions

How does Robertson Stephens manage investments?

We build personalized portfolios based on your specific situation, including your risk tolerance, tax sensitivity, liquidity needs, and values. We use a disciplined approach that balances long-term growth strategies with short-term opportunities when they make sense. We continuously monitor your investments and adjust as needed, drawing on institutional-quality research and due diligence.

Can Robertson Stephens help me create a financial plan?

Yes. Every financial plan at Robertson Stephens is completely customized to you. Our advisors conduct an in-depth discovery process to understand your specific needs, goals, and concerns, then build a bespoke wealth plan tailored to your unique situation - covering everything from your risk profile to your tax sensitivity, liquidity needs, and even your personal values.

How does Robertson Stephens Wealth Managers get paid?

We work on a fee-based model, which means our compensation is tied to the assets we manage for you rather than commissions on products we sell. This aligns our interests with yours - when your portfolio grows, we do better too. The specific fee structure varies by client based on your situation and needs.

Explore more ultra high net worth

ultra high-net-worth

fiduciary

wealth management

investing