Evaluation: One of 1365 Chapron convertibles originally built, but unlike the more common “Cabriolet Usine” (factory convertible) this car sold directly from Chapron, not a Citroën dealer. Features extra stainless body side trim, Robergel spoked wheels, Skai imitation leather soft top, and “trompe l’oeil” (optical illusion) paintwork on the dash that looks like wood veneer.
Represented as one of four semi-automatic Chaprons built on the fuel injected DS21 I.E. platform. Mechanically overhauled in the 2000s but the body and interior were largely left alone. Worn, cracking original leather and discolored carpets, but the dash and switchgear look sound aside from some pitting around the gauge bezels. Tidy engine bay with some dirt and grime from light use. Lightly oxidized exhaust. Some of the brightwork looks a bit tired, and the panel fit appears uneven in the photos. A sound, rare car that’s showing its age.
Bottom Line: It may be a little bit tired, but the Henri Chapron convertibles are the ones with two doors and a top that goes down, so they’re the most desirable versions of the “Dee Esse.” This is an appropriate price that fell into Bonhams’ reasonable estimate range and should leave both parties happy.
