The Tucson Auto Museum's extensive collection, including a 1929 Duesenberg and a Ferrari Dino 246 GTS, will be auctioned on January 28, 2027, without reserve.
The forthcoming auction of the Tucson Auto Museum's impressive collection marks a significant event for classic car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Scheduled for January 28, 2027, this auction, conducted by Kruse Auctions, will see the 80 collector cars presented without reserve. This means each vehicle will go to the highest bidder, generating excitement and competition among those in attendance. The event will coincide with Arizona Car Week, a bustling time for automotive aficionados, and will be held at the museum's current location in Tucson, alongside the inclusion of automobilia, vintage signs, and period petrol pumps.
A Diverse Automotive Collection
The collection housed within the Tucson Auto Museum is a rich amalgamation of vehicle types, showcasing a broad spectrum of market segments. It includes everything from highly sought-after blue-chip classics to quirky microcars and rare sporting machinery that captures the imagination. Each vehicle represents not only a mode of transportation but also a piece of automotive history. The museum, which relocated into its 26,000 square foot facility on Sabino Canyon Road—formerly a restaurant—opened its doors in 2025, and since then has garnered attention for its eclectic range of vehicles.
Headline Vehicles of the Auction
Among the standout vehicles to be auctioned is the 1929 Duesenberg Model J Arlington Sedan. Recognized as one of the epitomes of luxury cars from pre-war America, this particular Model J is noted for its largely original condition—a factor that could entice serious bidders at auction. Unlike the more common open sporting bodies associated with the Duesenberg brand, the formal Arlington Sedan configuration adds a layer of sophistication and rarity that collectors particularly prize.
Sharing the spotlight is the Ferrari Dino 246 GTS, celebrated for its mid-engine layout and offered in an open-topped format. This car exemplifies the diversity of the collection, bridging the gap between classic American luxury and Italian automotive performance. Both vehicles capture distinct eras and styles of automobile design, showcasing the breadth of automotive history represented at the museum.
Beyond the Headliners
In addition to these headline attractions, the auction catalog will feature an eclectic mix of vehicles such as American-powered, Italian-designed sports cars, a variety of microcars, and many lesser-known yet fascinating models. The collection's depth not only reflects the evolution of automotive engineering and design but also highlights unique vehicles that often go underappreciated in larger auctions.
The automobilia segment promises to further enrich the experience for collectors, featuring vintage signs and petrol pumps that encapsulate the spirit of motoring’s past. Each item tells a story, making them desirable to collectors who appreciate more than just cars.
Kruse Auctions' Commitment and Exhibition Details
Kruse Auctions has long-standing ties to the Tucson Auto Museum, a connection that enhances the authenticity and reliability of the upcoming auction. The auction house expressed its honor in having contributed to the growth of this remarkable collection over the years. The no-reserve auction format adds an element of urgency, as bidders know that every vehicle will find a new home on auction day.
Details regarding preview dates and inspection times are yet to be disclosed, which has left many potential bidders eagerly awaiting further information. Given the timing of the auction amidst Arizona Car Week—coinciding with Barrett-Jackson’s prestigious Scottsdale auction from January 23 to 31—it is expected that a multitude of collectors and enthusiasts will be in the area, potentially increasing competition and engagement at the auction.
As the date draws closer, the Tucson Auto Museum auction is shaping up to be one of the key events of the automotive calendar, offering a wealth of opportunities for buyers, sellers, and viewers to engage with automotive history in various forms.
