Eclectic Array of Vintage Motorcycles, Biker Memorabilia, Neon Advertising Signs, Billboards and Other Coveted Items From the Personal Collection of French Designer Robin Chrétien Head to Auction on February 29
Rare collectibles from the personal collection of French fashion designer Robin Chrétien, whose luxury denim brand Robin's Jean is known as a cult classic, will head to online auction on February 29. Live bidding for the online sale will start at 10 a.m. PST, with items being held for preview at the expansive Robin's Jean warehouse in Los Angeles.
An eclectic assortment of vintage motorcycles, neon advertising signs, electric guitars, billboards, and motorcycle and vintage street signs will highlight the sale, featuring over 230 lots. Each item reflects the designer's creative energy, love for American culture and passion for hitting wide open roads on a motorcycle. Chrétien is renowned not only for his innovative designs and biker-chic aesthetic, but as a foremost collector of neon signs and Indian Motorcycle memorabilia. Items range in value from $100 to $100,000.
"Robin Chrétien curated every item with exceptional creativity and passion to adorn his flagship stores around the world," said Abell Auction Co. Vice President Todd Schireson. "He held a deep desire to share the American story with the public, and purchased what he loved to showcase the country he fell in love with."
Chrétien, a fashion icon, was born in Grenoble, France, immersed in a creative environment that shaped his destiny. However, his true love story with denim began at the age of 14 when he acquired and sported his first pair of jeans. His journey led him to Los Angeles in 1996, where he quickly conquered the denim industry as a designer for renowned brands such as Blue Cult and Hudson before leaving his own mark.
But beyond the professional milestones, it is Chrétien's unique soul that illuminates his exceptional trajectory. Inspired by Native American history, motorcycle culture, and the golden age of cinema, he fused his passions to create Robin's Jean in 2005. This iconic label is much more than just a denim brand; it reflects the designer's dream and freedom of creation.
At the heart of this adventure lies a distinctive wing motif, symbolizing Chrétien's boldness and aspiration for innovation. Each rare piece auctioned becomes a tangible illustration of the spirit and history of American culture, a passionate echo that Chrétien has carried throughout his legendary career in the fashion world.
Thus, beyond being a renowned designer, Chrétien emerges as an iconic personality, captivating the world with his authenticity, visionary creativity and unwavering love for the United States. His career is not simply a success story but an extraordinary saga woven with passion, dreams and the tireless pursuit of artistic freedom. Featured sale items include:
Vintage and Custom Motorcycles
- RevTech Performance "Easy Rider" Captain America Motorcycle
- 1976 Harley Davidson Chopper with Custom-Painted Female Nude
- 1970s-era Custom Choppers with Harley Davidson Engines
- 1970s-era Custom Denver's Choppers Yellow Motorcycle
- 1969 BSA A50 Royal Star 500 Motorcycle
Neon Advertising Signs
- 1975 Harley-Davidson Double-Sided Dealership Sign (7 ½ feet high x 15 feet wide)
- Large Vintage Animated Neon Pirate Bar Sign (9 feet high x 9 feet wide)
- Vintage Blue Marline Double-Sided Neon Sign from Seattle Fish Market (12 ½ feet high x 8 feet wide)
- Vintage Frontier Hotel Animated Neon Welcome Sign (6 feet high x 8 ½ feet wide)
- 1950s-1960s-era Pegasus Mobil Neon Sign (5? feet high x 8 ½ feet wide)
- Vintage Pin-Up Girl Animated Neon Sign (9 feet high x 12 ½ feet wide)
- Large Automated Native American Neon Sign (10 ¾ feet high x 5 feet wide)
Other Notable Items
- Cort J. Triggs Guild TRG-1 Sea Foam Green Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar with Soft Case
- 1920s to 1940s Collection of Street Signs
- 1956 NASCAR Billboard (8 feet high x 16 feet wide)
"This auction is not just about the items, but about the story they tell of American heritage," said Chrétien. "Each piece has been a part of my journey in celebrating the rich and vibrant culture of America. I am thrilled to share this passion with fellow collectors and enthusiasts."
For a complete auction catalog, visit www.abell.com. An auction preview will be held the week prior to auction and by appointment at the Robin's Jean warehouse located at 6760 Foster Bridge Blvd. in Bell Gardens near Los Angeles. Visit www.abell.com or call 310.858.3073 for more detail.
Prospective bidders may register for the auction and obtain more information at www.abell.com. Buyers may place absentee bids with Abell directly, bid via telephone or bid online at www.abell.com, LiveAuctioneers.com or Invaluable.com.
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