Ron Pratte: The Man, The Myth, The Collector

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Ron Pratte is a name synonymous with high-stakes auctions, stunning car collections, and a passion for Americana. But who exactly is Ron Pratte, and how did he amass such an impressive collection? Let's delve into the life and legacy of this prominent figure in the collector car world.

From Construction to Collector Extraordinaire

Ron Pratte made his fortune in the construction and real estate industries. While details about his early life are relatively scarce, it's clear that his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen led to significant financial success. This success, in turn, fueled his passion for collecting, particularly classic cars and petroliana (gas station memorabilia).

A Collector's Dream: The Ron Pratte Collection

Pratte's collection was legendary. It wasn't just the sheer volume of items, but the quality and rarity that set it apart. His collection included:

  • Classic Cars: Everything from Duesenbergs and Auburns to classic Corvettes and hot rods. These weren't just any cars; they were often meticulously restored examples of automotive history.
  • Petroliana: Gas pumps, signs, and other vintage gas station memorabilia. These items offered a glimpse into a bygone era of American car culture.
  • Other Collectibles: Pratte's interests extended beyond cars and petroliana. His collection also included motorcycles, jukeboxes, and other Americana.

Key Highlights of the Collection:

  • 1950 General Motors Futurliner Parade of Progress Tour Bus: A truly unique vehicle, one of only a handful ever made.
  • Numerous Duesenbergs: Considered by many to be the pinnacle of pre-war American luxury cars.
  • Extensive Selection of Shelby Mustangs: Representing some of the most iconic performance cars of the 1960s.

The Auction of a Lifetime

In 2015, the Ron Pratte Collection went up for auction by Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event was a spectacle, drawing collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe. The auction generated millions of dollars and cemented Pratte's legacy as one of the most significant collectors of his time.

Why Was the Auction So Significant?

  • Scale: The sheer size of the collection meant there was something for almost every type of collector.
  • Quality: The high quality and rarity of the items attracted serious bidders.
  • Publicity: The auction generated significant media attention, further fueling interest.

Ron Pratte's Lasting Impact

While Ron Pratte may no longer be actively collecting, his impact on the collector car world is undeniable. He demonstrated that collecting could be a serious passion, driven by a love of history, design, and Americana. His collection and its subsequent auction served as an inspiration to collectors everywhere.

Lessons from Ron Pratte's Collection:

  • Collect what you love: Pratte's passion for his collection was evident.
  • Focus on quality: He sought out the best examples of the items he collected.
  • Preserve history: His collection helped to preserve automotive and American history.

Call to Action: Are you a collector? What are you passionate about collecting? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply appreciate automotive history, the story of Ron Pratte and his incredible collection is sure to fascinate. His legacy lives on through the cars and memorabilia that are now in the hands of other passionate collectors.