The Automobilia Collectors Expo, held from August 11–13, 2025, during Monterey Car Week, marks a new chapter in automotive culture, blending rare collectibles, community, and a live auction that has quickly become a must-attend event for enthusiasts and industry leaders alike. Located at Embassy Suites Monterey Bay in Seaside, CA, the Expo is one of the largest event of its kind in North America, drawing collectors and vendors from around the world for an immersive celebration of automotive history and memorabilia.
The Expo features more than 425 rare lots, ranging from vintage posters and scale models to original artwork, period rally plates, badges, and showroom displays. Over 27 top-tier dealers guarantee an authentic and eclectic mix curated for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts.
New for 2025, the Automobilia Collectors Auction, held live on August 12 from 4PM–8PM, adds a dynamic edge to the experience. Bidders competed for ultra-rare highlights, such as the 1954 Jaguar XK120 (Feature Lot), Donald Osborne’s Private “Tin Toy” Collection, the iconic Laguna Seca Private Collection, and a No Reserve Porsche Collection.
The auction’s energy and strategic curation elevate Monterey Car Week’s status as a hub for collectors worldwide.
Artifacts and historic memorabilia associated with America’s legendary Laguna Seca race track emerged as some of the most coveted lots. Items included original programs, photographs, signage, and rare literature, capturing the spirit of the circuit’s motorsport legacy.
On a spontaneous after dinner visit, I walked into the auction just as it was about to conclude. With just 20 minutes left, I started snapping photos for fun. One of the co-founders, Will Elkadi, graciously invited me to photograph freely, so I slipped behind the glass countertop display of collectibles up for actuin.
The very first box revealed a stack of pamphlets from a MotoGP race with Valentino Rossi on the cover, the very same event I’d documented years ago as my first foray into the automotive world, or at least motorcycles, at Laguna Seca.
Moments later, I watched those exact pamphlets, my own work among them, sell for $80. Surprised and delighted, I shared with the winning bidders that I was the photographer for some of those images. Seeing my contributions now valued and collected was a humbling, full-circle moment I’ll never forget. Its an indescribable feeling.
The 2025 Automobilia Collectors Auction catalog offered an exceptional range of collectible treasures. Among the standout features was Donald Osborne’s esteemed “Tin Toy” Collection, a carefully curated selection of prized automotive-themed pieces from one of the most respected figures in the automotive media world.
Porsche enthusiasts were drawn to the No Reserve Porsche Memorabilia section, which included rare display items, finely detailed scale models, and original factory literature, with a unique opportunity to acquire hard-to-find marque-specific items without a reserve price.
Complementing these highlights was an expansive array of global automobilia, encompassing vintage posters, period badges, classic racing art, rally plates, and contemporary collectibles sourced from some of the world’s most reputable vendors.
Two visionary figures are responsible for the creation and success of the Automobilia Collectors Expo, each bringing unique expertise that has elevated the event’s reputation and reach within the automotive memorabilia community. Their collaborative leadership has blended authenticity, innovation, and connection, resulting in an expo that sets new standards for both collectors and industry participants.
Ben Horton stands out as an internationally recognized authority in automotive literature, thanks to his stewardship at Hortons Books. Over the years, Horton has served as a judge for significant industry awards and provided guidance to esteemed motoring libraries worldwide.
His extensive experience, spanning more than three decades of involvement in major international events such as Retromobile Paris and the Goodwood Revival, has been fundamental to the expo’s genuine curation and breadth.
Horton’s deep-rooted knowledge and commitment to preserving automotive history have made him an essential architect of the expo’s authenticity and growth.
Will Elkadi is the driving force behind key regional resources like the Monterey Car Week Guide and WhatsUpMonterey, platforms that have become indispensable for visitors and automotive enthusiasts attending the area’s renowned events.
With over 25 years in digital media, event production, and public relations, Elkadi’s adeptness at networking and building industry connections has been instrumental in raising the expo’s profile.
His strategic vision for assembling collectors, vendors, and enthusiasts has positioned the Automobilia Collectors Expo at the center of the global automotive memorabilia scene, ensuring the event is not only highly engaging but also distinctly influential.
“Innovation and community are at the heart of the Automobilia Collectors Expo. We aim to elevate the experience for vendors and attendees, establishing our expo as a cornerstone event for collectors worldwide.” -Will Elkadi
The Expo isn’t just about acquisition. It’s about networking, sharing stories, and forging new partnerships. With car displays and a networking lounge, the venue fosters deep connections among industry leaders, casual fans, and collectors alike.
For more events happening see the 2025 Monterey Car Week Events Schedule.
Article Last Updated: August 12, 2025.
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Michael Kahn is the publisher of The Weekly Driver, serving as writer, photographer, and content creator. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for adventure, he specializes in uncovering the stories and experiences of automobile enthusiasts. Michael’s work is inspired by his love for off-the-beaten-path road trips, global exploration, and the pursuit of exceptional culinary experiences, all captured through the lens of a world traveler and automotive enthusiast.