Record breaking prices were the order of the day at Cheffins midsummer Vintage extravaganza which took place at the Cambidgeshire based saleground on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th July, An incredible entry of over 170 vintage and classic tractors, 30 classic commercials, classic motorcycles and a wonderful selection of classic cars, petroliana and automobilia went under the hammer with the sale topping £1.6m.
A strong trade prevailed throughout the sale for Vintage tractors from the 1930s all the way through to classic tractors from the 1970/80s. It was clear from early on that the main interest was with the classics with some exceptional examples on offer, achieving strong prices.
The continuing interest in Massey Ferguson once again dominated the day with several later classic editions achieving record prices. A Massey Ferguson 390T, a very original example with just 1694 genuine hours, made £68,000 and a Massey Ferguson 690 model showing just 1,200 hours, fitted with 12 speed transmission, made £26,800. Another highlight was a Massey Ferguson 675 4wd, an original example with super cab interior and paintwork, showing just 970 hours, which came out at £51,500.
There was also a collection of classic cars and very low mileage modern vehicles including a 2009 Land Rover Defender 90 County 4cylinder 2402cc diesel 4X4 with just 135 miles on the clock which sold for £46,000 and a 2003 Toyota HiLux EX D-4D 4cylinder 2494cc diesel Pickup with less than 37,000 miles which fetched £24,000. A stunning example of a 1968 MG C Roadster 6cylinder 2912cc petrol with 1,120 miles sold for £18,500.
In the steam section, a 1981 6ins scale BURRELL 5nhp three speed Double Crank Compound Showmans Road Locomotive steam engine, sold for £22,000 and a 6ins scale Foster agricultural single cylinder two speed Steam Engine, built by J.O. Lugg in 1978 fetched £42,000.
Overall there was good attendance on site and an enormous following online with bidding from the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe. In contrast to some other elements of the collectors’ market, the classic tractor trade is proving robust in the present economic conditions.
Cheffins next Vintage sale takes place at The Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on Saturday 17th August.