Certified Auto Appraiser · Classic & collector
Classic and collector car appraisals in Orange County
Classic and collector cars don't fit a price guide. Originality, documentation, condition and the right options can swing the value enormously. I've bought and sold these cars for thirty years, and I know where the value is.
From the field
Every classic has a story. So does its value.
Two cars can look identical from across a parking lot and be worth very different amounts. One has its original engine, the window sticker and fifty years of records. The other has been nicely restored but has lost the details that collectors pay for.
Over thirty years I've bought, sold and appraised everything from Mustangs, Camaros and C10s to air-cooled Porsches and Ferraris, and I've managed private collections here in Orange County. I know what to look for, and I know what those cars actually sell for.
An appraisal from someone who knows the market is the best way to know what you have, whether you're insuring it, settling an estate, or simply curious.
Keep driving,
David
When you need one
- Insurance at an agreed value
- Estates, trusts and divorce
- Donations to museums, schools and foundations
- Before buying or selling a collector car
- Valuing a collection, consistently
What the report includes
- Market value for the purpose and the valuation date
- An in-person inspection, with detailed photographs
- Originality, numbers, restoration quality and condition
- Documentation and ownership history
- Comparable sales from auctions, dealers and private sales, with adjustments, and a signed USPAP certification
Independence
Originals, restorations and restomods
I appraise original survivors, concours restorations, driver-quality cars and well-built restomods. Each one is valued against the right comparables: an original car against originals, a restomod against restomods. For the rarest pre-war cars, I'll tell you if a marque specialist should be involved, and help bring one in.
Questions
Good to know.
How do you value a classic car?
By inspecting it carefully, grading its condition and originality, reviewing its documentation, and comparing it with real sales of similar cars at auction, through dealers and privately.
Does originality really matter that much?
For most collector cars, yes. Matching numbers, original paint and interior, and documentation can make a large difference in value.
Can you appraise a restomod or modified car?
Yes. Modified cars are valued against comparable modified cars, considering the quality of the build and the parts used.
Do you appraise exotics?
Yes. Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren and other exotics are cars I've bought, sold and managed for years.
Can you appraise a car that doesn't run?
Yes. Barn finds and project cars are appraised as they are, with their condition documented.
Do you come to me?
Yes. I inspect cars in person throughout Orange County, from Newport Beach and Irvine to Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, at your home, garage or storage.
Other appraisals
Request an appraisal
Tell me about the car, its history, and why you need the appraisal. I'll reply personally.