1947 Delahaye Figoni & Falaschi
Photos Courtesy of Chris DeMarey
The 1947 Delahaye Figoni & Falaschi “The Narval” Restored by Classic Car Services
The automotive world is rich with legends, but few vehicles are as mesmerizing as the 1947 Delahaye Figoni & Falaschi, known as "The Narval." Inspired by the sleek lines of a narwhal emerging from the sea, this masterpiece has a history as captivating as its design. Originally selected to represent the distinguished coachbuilder Figoni & Falaschi at the 1947 Paris Auto Salon, the Narval soon caught the eye of famed French singer Charles Trenet, who became its first owner. With its distinct style, elegance, and unique musical connection, the car would become an enduring icon.
A Restoration Honoring Art and History
When Classic Car Services began the restoration, the mission was not just to restore its looks but to revive its spirit. Every detail of this 1947 Delahaye was painstakingly researched and restored, honoring the car’s unique history while restoring it to its original grandeur. The restoration team returned the car to its striking Orange Brûlée color, highlighting its sculpted bodywork. The two-tone interior was also meticulously restored, along with the signature lucite steering wheel, bringing the car back to its post-war splendor.
The result was a true homage to the artistry of Figoni & Falaschi, blending form, function, and imagination to resurrect a vehicle that is not just a car but a rolling work of art.
A Legacy of Awards: Recognized on the World’s Grandest Stages
The restored 1947 Delahaye "Narval" has dazzled at some of the most prestigious concours events in the world. The car’s awe-inspiring presence and historical significance have earned it multiple Best in Show titles at Amelia Island and St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance. And at the famed Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2023, the 1947 Delahaye also received the coveted Art in Motion Elegance Award, a testament to its standing as one of the world’s most exquisite automobiles.
Celebrating the 1947 Delahaye Figoni & Falaschi as a Symbol of Timeless Art
The 1947 Delahaye Figoni & Falaschi Narval is more than a car; it is a symbol of a golden age in automotive design, one that pushed boundaries and defined a new standard of elegance. Each award and accolade is a reminder that art can indeed move us, both in spirit and in motion.