The 18th fairway at Pebble Beach has a unique way of freezing time. In 2026, this magical moment unfolded for the 75th time during the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The event featured a spectacular display of automotive history, with a 1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster taking center stage, its sleek black body gleaming under the California sun.
This year’s competition showcased 218 remarkable vehicles from around the globe, including 33 international entries representing 14 countries and 185 American entries from 30 states. The event not only celebrated automotive artistry but also surpassed an impressive milestone, raising over $50 million in charitable donations.
The Crown Jewel: Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster
The Best of Show award went to the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster one of only two ever made. This exquisite vehicle, part of Harry Yeaggy’s collection from Cincinnati, Ohio, has a rich history that includes ownership by Hollywood legend Clark Gable. The Concours Chairman, Sandra Button, highlighted the car’s significance, stating, “Duesenberg often tops the list of desires for people with a passion for American classics, and the iconic SSJ is the marque’s ultimate expression.”
The SSJ embodies the dramatic styling of the 1930s, with its sweeping hood line and rakish, aerodynamic windshield. Recently restored to its original presentation, the car features a black lacquer finish and a light saddle leather interior. Yeaggy, who previously won Best of Show in 2007 with another Duesenberg, expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the hard work and dedication required to achieve this prestigious award.
A Celebration of Automotive Excellence
The 2026 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance honored Ferrari as the featured marque, highlighting the brand’s legendary racing heritage and iconic designs. The event also paid tribute to the craftsmanship of Vignale, showcasing a dedicated class and a finalist vehicle. The Pininfarina Trophy, introduced in 2026, was awarded to a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Series I Pinin Farina Cabriolet underscoring the enduring legacy of Italian design.
Other notable finalists included a 1938 Delahaye 165 Figoni et Falaschi Cabriolet a 1955 Ferrari 375 MM Pinin Farina Berlinetta and a 1954 Ferrari 375 America Vignale Cabriolet. These vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive design and engineering, each with its own unique story and historical significance.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has already announced its plans for the 2027 event, which will take place on Ferragosto. The celebration will honor the 100th anniversary of Delage’s Grand Prix-winning season and the 40th anniversary of the Ferrari F40. This upcoming event promises to be another spectacular showcase of automotive history and innovation.
As the sun set on the 75th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the 1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster stood as a testament to the enduring allure of classic automobiles. Its victory not only honored the past but also inspired future generations of automotive enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that define the world’s most iconic vehicles.
