Imagine walking into the Javits Center and finding cars most people only ever see behind a collector’s garage door. That’s Retromobile New York, the American debut of a Paris car show that’s been running for 50 years — and it’s coming exclusively on November 19–22.
What Is Retromobile?
Think of it as a car show crossed with an art gallery. In Paris it’s a legend. Now it’s setting up in Manhattan for the first time.
The focus is automotive history: preserved classics, racing icons and design landmarks. Collectors, dealers and restoration specialists from around the world will be there too, which means the people who really know these vehicles will be a few feet away.
The lineup is where it gets ridiculous
Here’s what’s confirmed so far.
Jerry Seinfeld is bringing three of his personal Porsches. There’s also a 1958 Volkswagen T1 Single Cab in the mix. If you’ve ever wondered what the Porsche collection of the guy who made car talk a comedy staple looks like in person, this is the chance.
Cars in famous films are coming to NYC for the first time. They’re on loan from the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Bring the friend who’s been quoting those movies since 2001.
LeBron James’ custom Mercedes-Maybach S 680 is one of two ever built. It was designed by LeBron and shown through Gooding Christie’s, the official auction of Retromobile New York.
Keith Haring and Basquiat artwork is part of the mix. So is the Maybach from Jay-Z and Kanye West’s “Otis” video. Cars and contemporary art share the floor here, which is not something a typical car show does.
The whole Billy Joel Motorcycle Collection is headlining the auction. Even if you’re not bidding, it’s a New York music-meets-machines moment.
Not a “car person”? You’ll still love it
Maybe the cars aren’t why you’re here. Maybe it’s the design, the craftsmanship or the celebrity of it all. The exhibit is built for both lifelong gearheads and for guests who are just curious. Nobody’s quizzing you on horsepower at the door.
The catch: It’s only four days
This event lives in Paris on its own schedule. New York only gets four days, and plenty of these cars won’t be back in the city anytime soon. That’s the part worth planning around. A rare, once-in-a-lifetime lineup that is worth checking out before it takes off.
Take a look at the full lineup and secure your spot before the crowd catches on!