1925 Hispano-Suiza H6B Transformable Cabriolet by Belvallette
- Engine
- 6-cylinder SOHC, aluminum block with steel cylinders, seven main bearings, 135 hp
Chassis 11093 is a 1925 Hispano-Suiza H6B fitted with an original three-position transformable cabriolet body by the Parisian coachbuilder Belvallette, notable for its ingenious self-latching window system. Believed to have remained with a single family for roughly six decades, it surfaced in 1984 and subsequently underwent a complete restoration by Parisian craftsman André Le Coq, earning a major award at the 1992 Louis Vuitton Classic. The car later entered the Arturo Keller collection in California before passing through German ownership and ultimately to prominent Hispano-Suiza historian Jules Heumann, who undertook a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold US$445,000
- 1925-01-21 →Factory deliveryM. de Survillepartial documentation
Ordered via dealer Saint Didier for delivery in January 1925; believed registered in the Rouen/Versailles region. Car thought to have stayed within this family for roughly six decades.
- → 1984Acquisition unknownSingle prior owner noted at 1984 salepartial documentation
When the car surfaced for sale in 1984, it was described as having had only one previous owner; initials 'JS' appeared on rear doors and plates.
- 1990 →Private saleClaude Decosterpartial documentation
Based in Neuilly; commissioned a full restoration by Parisian craftsman Andre Le Coq after acquiring the car.
- → 2007Private saleArturo Kellerpartial documentation
California-based collector with a highly regarded collection; the car remained in his ownership for approximately 15 years following its move to the United States.
- 2007 → 2015Acquisition unknownGerman ownerpartial documentation
Car returned to Europe under German ownership for approximately eight years before being sold to a US buyer.
- 2015 →Private saleJules Heumannpartial documentation
Long-serving co-chairman of the Pebble Beach Concours and noted Hispano-Suiza authority in the US; undertook a thorough mechanical recommissioning including a full engine rebuild and overdrive installation.
Competition
- 1992Louis Vuitton Classic at Bagatelle 1992Breitling Grand Prix de l'Innovation
Award for innovation presented following completion of the Le Coq restoration under Claude Decoster's ownership.
- —Pebble Beach Motoring ClassicDriver: Jules Heumanncompleted
Approximately 1,500-mile drive from Seattle to Pebble Beach, reaching altitudes of around 7,000 feet; undertaken after Heumann's mechanical restoration work was finished.
Maintenance & restoration
- —RestorationAndré Le Coq
Full restoration commissioned by Claude Decoster and carried out by Parisian coachwork and mechanical specialist André Le Coq; work was considered comprehensive and of high quality.
Restoration completed prior to the 1992 Louis Vuitton Classic, where the car won a major award.
- —Engine rebuild
During Jules Heumann's ownership, the engine received new high-compression pistons and rings, replacement valves, valve springs, tappets, and keepers; the camshaft was reground and hard-chromed.
Work carried out after 2015 acquisition; electronic ignition was also fitted as part of the same programme.
- —Modification
The original gearbox was fitted with a Laycock-type overdrive unit to improve highway and long-distance touring capability.
Fitted during Jules Heumann's ownership alongside the engine rebuild.
- —Mechanical
Brakes and suspension were properly adjusted and tuned; correct 23-inch wheels were sourced and fitted.
Part of the broader refurbishment programme undertaken by Jules Heumann.
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