This exceptional Mercedes-Benz 190 Sl, a true icon of automotive elegance, boasts a captivating history as rich as its design. Originally sold in the fashionable city of Paris in early 1957, this particular model comes with the desirable optional hard-top and a lineage that stretches back through decades of notable ownership. From Parisian fashion houses to the glittering world of French cinema, this Benz 190 SL has witnessed a remarkable journey.
Its story begins with Armand Thiéry, head of the then-nascent clothing company Thiéry Ainé, which would later become the renowned Armand Thiéry brand in 1963. Thiéry selected a sophisticated “White Grey” exterior, complemented by a luxurious black leather interior and the sought-after Becker “Le Mans” radio. This Benz 190 SL was a statement of style and success from its very inception.
The car’s prestigious ownership continued in 1960 when it passed into the hands of celebrated writer Guy des Cars, a prominent figure in French literature. Des Cars, known for his popular novels, owned the car briefly before it officially became part of the family of Jean Mousselle and his wife Lydie in 1962. This marked the beginning of an era of cinematic connection for this remarkable vehicle.
Jean Mousselle was a respected cameraman who worked alongside the legendary Jacques Tati on films like ‘Jour de fête,’ later forging his own path as a director. His wife, Lydie, was a script supervisor on the same iconic film. For nearly four decades, this Benz 190 SL was a constant companion to the Mousselle couple, witnessing their dedication and contributions to French cinema. Imagine this classic car parked on film sets, a silent observer of creative endeavors and cinematic history in the making.
In 2000, the Benz 190 SL transitioned to Lydie’s brother, ensuring it remained within the family. Throughout its life, this car has been cherished and meticulously maintained. A comprehensive maintenance file, dating all the way back to 1962, accompanies the vehicle, providing a detailed chronicle of its upkeep and care at Mercedes-Benz service centers. This remarkable archive includes the original purchase receipt from 1962, a letter from Jean Mousselle to Mercedes-Benz Stuttgart in 1984 requesting service expertise, the original French owner’s manual, and a recent expert report from August 2024.
While this Benz 190 SL has been repainted, its bodywork and original leather upholstery remain untouched, preserving its authentic vintage charm. The engine underwent restoration in 2000, and the soft top was more recently renewed, ensuring its continued drivability and appeal. A recent test drive confirms that this car is in excellent working order, a testament to its careful preservation and the inherent quality of Mercedes-Benz engineering. Its unique patina speaks volumes of its history – a vehicle that has accompanied a couple through life’s adventures and been consistently treasured.
This 1957 Benz 190 SL, complete with its hard-top and remarkable provenance, represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive and cultural history. It is offered for sale without the French technical inspection, presenting a unique chance for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire a truly exceptional classic car.
