Belgium's Bingo Willy left 100 cars behind, and every one sells with no reserve

Insight summary

• •Around 100 cars and motorcycles from Belgian tycoon Willy Michiels' estate are going to auction at RM Sotheby's starting 8 September without any reserve prices.
• •Willy Michiels, known as Bingo Willy, was a self-made fortune from jukebox coins and gambling, and served three times as mayor of Haaltert.
• •The collection features classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles including a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 600 Six-Door Pullman, a 1962 190 SL, and a 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom I limousine.
• •The sale is characterized by no minimum bids or reserve, allowing the market to freely determine the value of each car, favoring buyers.
• •Michiels’ collection is noted for being a reflection of his personal taste rather than for investment or record-setting purposes.
• •The auction is considered a significant event in Belgian car culture and history, offering a rare chance to acquire a diverse and storied private collection.
• •Prior parts of the estate included auctions of over 100 Porsche tractors and 80 historic horse-drawn carriages, illustrating the eclectic nature of his gathering.