1966 Citroen DS

Documents: German Fahrzeugbrief

Chassis No. DS214350023

Citroën No. 0032 000117

Chapron Body No. 7567

Engine No. 0578004404

From the moment Citroën's revolutionary DS made its spectacular debut in 1955, it has consistently ranked among the most elegant production cars ever. The task of improving a masterpiece is never easy, requiring an expert eye to achieve. For the great Henri Chapron, one of France's most celebrated and venerable coachbuilders, this was a welcome challenge. In addition to creating the design for the factory-sanctioned Décapotable, Chapron also produced a variety of highly exclusive, open and closed designs on the brilliant DS platform.

Joining the two-seat Caddy and four-seater La Croisette convertibles was the Palm Beach in 1963. The four-seater convertible Palm Beach was distinguished by its retractable rear quarter windows, which afforded a lighter, more balanced profile, as well as better all-around visibility for occupants with the roof in place. As with other Chapron creations, the Palm Beach was exclusive, expensive, and beautifully appointed. Chapron offered the Palm Beach in its catalogue from 1966 through the end of 5th Series production in 1972, with an estimated 32 examples produced according to published records.

Appropriately finished in an attractive shade of champagne gold over light beige leather upholstery, this 1966 DS 21 Palm Beach is one of the estimated 15 second-series Palm Beach models, distinguished by its round headlamps and reshaped rear wing design. Fine details include Guilloched lower body trim, Palm Beach wing emblems, Marchal auxiliary lamps with painted nacelles, and the desirable Jaeger instrument cluster. "Henri Chapron Paris – Levallois" plates adorn the sills.

Documents on file track the Chapron-bodied Citroën's recent ownership and service history, which includes interior and soft top restoration in 2009, and extensive mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical service work performed by respected Citroën specialists Garage Crescia SA in 2015, under the coordination of noted dealer Lukas Hüni AG. An exceptional example of the rare and glamorous coachbuilt Palm Beach, it is well-suited for both concours display or touring enjoyment.