Formula 1 Memorabilia to Collect
F1 Prints, Paintings, Helmets, Bodywork, Tyres and Books
Oct 4, 2008
Formula 1 Prints and Paintings
Formula 1 has always attracted painters, intent on capturing the speed and excitement of the sport. Many artists concentrate solely on the category and their work is widely available as limited edition and open edition prints. Formula 1 drivers occasionally sign these prints, increasing their value and such pieces represent good investments. Some of the more celebrated motor sport artists are Juan-Carlos Ferrigno, Gordon Crosby, Graham Turner, Michael Turner and Andrew Kitson.
For an extra special piece of artwork a painting can be commissioned. Although it’s an expensive alternative to buying a print it means that the collector gets exactly what they want. Many artists also sell off their original paintings on their websites and at motor racing events.
Replica Formula 1 Helmets
Formula 1 drivers have long distinguished themselves by sporting unique helmet designs. Many collectors focus on collecting memorabilia related to their favourite driver and a replica crash helmet provides a great centre-piece.
Replica helmets are available from specialist racing memorabilia shops and from several companies on the internet. Care should be taken as many replicas are not faithful to the original. Metal washers are often used to replicate the original visor fittings. A good replica should use the same model of helmet as used by the driver. They cost more but, in the long run, are a far better investment.
Formula 1 Bodywork and Tyres
Collecting parts from Formula 1 cars is popular among collectors who enjoy having something unique. These colourful pieces can be wall-mounted and certainly provide an interesting alternative to more conventional decorations.
Front and rear wings from Formula 1 cars are frequently available for sale on racing websites and eBay. Larger sections of bodywork are also available but they can be difficult to display. Pieces from recent Formula 1 cars are incredibly light as they are manufactured from carbon-fibre. This has the benefit of saving a considerable amount on postage. Formula 1 tyres are also highly collectable. With a circular piece of glass placed on top they make unique coffee tables.
Formula 1 Books
Thousands of books have been written about Formula 1 since the first World Championship in 1950. Many can be acquired now for a token amount, while others are highly sought after. Autocourse annuals can be particularly valuable, depending on the year. The annual is still published each year but early editions of it can command prices of several hundred pounds.
Driver biographies and autobiographies are also highly collectable. Among the most valuable is the English version of, “François Cevert, A Contract with Death,” written by Jean-Calude Halle and published by William Kimber in 1974. Long out of print, the book about the great French driver regularly achieves prices of £70-100. Classic race meetings are a great place to find rare and out-of-print books as many specialist bookshops have stalls at such events.
More ideas for collecting Formula 1 memorabilia.
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