In the realm of office furniture, few pieces can match the allure and history of this glass-topped desk made from the trunk lid of a Ferrari 250 GTE. This remarkable item combines function with a storied past, making it a perfect centerpiece for any automotive enthusiast’s workspace.
The Ferrari 250 GTE holds a special place in Ferrari’s history. Introduced in the late 1950s and early 1960s, it wasn’t the fastest or most expensive Ferrari, nor the most successful on the racetrack. However, it became Ferrari’s best-seller during its production years, significantly contributing to the company’s financial stability. The 250 GTE established Ferrari as a producer of high-end grand tourers with practical 2+2 seating and substantial trunk space.
Legend has it that the 250 GTE was developed at the request of Enzo Ferrari, who desired a car that could comfortably accommodate himself, his driver, his wife, and their pet dog. While Ferrari had previously produced limited numbers of four-seaters, the 250 GTE was the first to be mass-produced, meeting Enzo’s personal needs and appealing to a broader market.
The Ferrari 250 series includes some of the most iconic models in the brand’s history, such as the 250 Testa Rossa, 250 LM, 250 GTO, 250 GT Lusso, and 250 GT SWB. Interestingly, the 250 series also played a pivotal role in the founding of Lamborghini. Frustrated by clutch problems in his Ferrari 250 and a subsequent dispute with Enzo Ferrari, tractor manufacturer Ferruccio Lamborghini decided to start his own car company, leading to the birth of Lamborghini.
The 250 GTE made its public debut at the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans, serving as the course car and capturing the attention of tens of thousands of spectators. This exposure undoubtedly boosted its sales and solidified its place in automotive history.
The desk in question features a trunk lid from a Ferrari 250 GTE, complemented by chromed tubular steel legs and mounts for the glass tabletop. It also includes a license plate reading “250 GTE,” Ferrari script, a flag decal, and the original trunk opening handle, all adding to its authenticity and charm.
This distinctive piece is set to be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s as part of their Dare to Dream Collection in late May and early June, with an estimated price range of $3,000 to $5,000 USD. For more details or to register to bid, interested parties can visit the RM Sotheby’s listing.
Combining history, design, and functionality, this Ferrari 250 GTE trunk lid desk is not just furniture but a statement piece that celebrates the legacy of one of Ferrari’s most important models.
Elizabeth Puckett