As many of you are aware, weekend auctions often yield the most significant sales. We've discussed this phenomenon extensively, with data to support our observations. This past weekend was no exception, with sales approaching $10 million, despite several platforms not hosting any auctions.

The highlight was the stunning red 1955 Gullwing, which became the 7th highest sale of the year. This sale further solidifies Collecting Cars' position as the second-highest platform for premium vehicle sales. Currently, out of the top 10 most expensive vehicles sold this year, Collecting Cars accounts for 4, while Bring a Trailer claims 6.

Given BaT's volume of sales this year, one might expect them to dominate the top 10 list more decisively. It's somewhat surprising that they haven't yet established a separate division for ultra-premium offerings. With numerous $4-6 million+ cars available, there's an opportunity to create a specialized segment with adjusted pricing and dedicated specialists. BaT has proven their ability to sell cars effectively, so expanding into this upper echelon seems like a logical progression.

Returning to the main point, Collecting Cars deserves congratulations for consistently achieving these impressive high-value sales. They keep hitting these big sales out of the park, Derek Jeter style! What's particularly noteworthy is their ability to secure these "home runs" while attracting only about 1/10th of BaT's website traffic. This suggests a high concentration of premium buyers within their user base.

It's worth mentioning that as BaT begins to expand into the European market. It will be fascinating to observe how they perform in this new territory and whether it affects the dynamics of high-end online auto auctions.

Photography and video are crucial to an auction's success or failure. While I could list 10 other vital factors, let's focus on the photography aspect for this article.

I've often praised sellers like Wob, 911r, and others for their exceptional presentation of listings. The time and effort they invest in photography has raised the bar, compelling others to elevate their game to stay competitive.

This weekend, I found Collecting Cars' approach to their feature image for their high-value collection particularly intriguing. Given the success of the auctions (granted, the cars themselves were top-notch), it's worth noting how they edited the feature photograph. It differed from their usual style, and I'll admit, my untrained eye initially questioned whether this was the right direction. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the results.

The way Collecting Cars presented these listings, especially considering the substantial sales they achieved over the weekend, demonstrates a willingness to experiment with presentation styles. It's a reminder that even established platforms continue to refine and adapt their approach to showcase vehicles in the most appealing light.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on how vital you believe photography is in selling a car. Do you think Collecting Cars' new approach to their feature image contributed to the weekend's success? And how do you see the role of photography evolving in online car auctions?

This presentation style, coupled with their ability to consistently land significant sales despite lower traffic compared to competitors like BaT, suggests a keen understanding of their audience and what appeals to high-end buyers. It will be interesting to see if this approach becomes a trend in their future listings.

McLaren sales are a rare sight online, with just over 2000 units sold globally last year. Let's dive into three special auctions currently making waves in the car community.

SBX Auction: Supercar Blondie’s 2018 McLaren 720S Fury Edition

The Fury Edition is a spectacle with its dramatic TopCar Design Fury body kit. What’s intriguing is that Alex Hirschi, aka Supercar Blondie, hasn’t posted a sales video review for her own car—odd for someone who thrives on showcasing her rides. Adding to the suspense, the auction is no reserve. If bids don’t hit six figures, could she really take a hit? Or will her celebrity status drive a premium?

SOMO Auction: 2020 McLaren 720S Performance Coupe

This Performance Coupe in McLaren Orange already has a bid of $154,000. With only 7,376 miles, it’s practically new and loaded with features: carbon fiber monocoque chassis, advanced aerodynamics, and a plush interior. The sports exhaust and vehicle lift system are just cherries on top. This auction shows how desirable a low-mileage, high-spec 720S can be.

BaT Auction: 2018 McLaren 720S Performance Coupe

The BaT auction is heating up with a bid of $180,000 and just two days left. This model, also in McLaren Orange, has 16,000 miles and features a carbon fiber exterior pack and active rear spoiler. It’s the full package for any enthusiast, complete with a potent 4.0L twin-turbo V8 and soft-close doors. The strong bids reflect its premium condition and high desirability.

Conclusion

These auctions are a rare chance to snag a McLaren 720S. From Supercar Blondie’s Fury Edition with its no-reserve intrigue to the high-spec Performance Coupes on SOMO and BaT, the excitement is through the roof. (well it is for me!!)

Whether these cars will sell for their true worth or lead to unexpected deals is the real thrill of the auction.