the art of steering

Ferrari: Elegance Meets Competition

The relationship between Ferrari and celebrated steering-wheel manufacturers such as Nardi and MOMO produced some particularly evocative designs.

Early wooden steering wheels complement the sculptural qualities we associate with classic Italian automobiles. Later leather-covered designs communicate something different. They look more purposeful, more technical and increasingly influenced by competition.

For the collector, both approaches are interesting.

A wooden wheel may immediately evoke the atmosphere of a classic grand tourer, while a compact leather wheel with a Ferrari horn button brings to mind the increasingly sporting cockpits of a later generation.

The steering wheel therefore tells part of the story of how the automobile itself evolved.

What Makes a Steering Wheel Collectible?

As with most original automobilia, the details matter.

Period correctness, manufacturer markings, engravings, original finishes and provenance can all contribute to the desirability of a steering wheel. Condition is important too, although carefully preserved signs of age can give a genuine vintage object considerable character.

Originality is especially appealing.

Wood develops colour and patina. Aluminium acquires fine traces of use. Leather changes subtly through years of handling. Rather than merely making an object look old, these details can help communicate its history.

This is something a modern reproduction can imitate aesthetically, but never truly duplicate.

Automotive Art for the Home

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of collecting steering wheels is that they do not need to remain hidden away in storage.

A beautifully designed steering wheel makes an exceptional decorative object.

Mounted against a neutral wall, displayed on a stand or combined with period brochures, badges and other automobilia, an elegant steering wheel can become the centrepiece of a collection.

The circular shape and architectural arrangement of the spokes give many vintage wheels an almost sculptural quality. Even to somebody unfamiliar with the exact model or manufacturer, the object immediately communicates speed, craftsmanship and mechanical beauty.

Holding a Piece of History

Automobilia is ultimately about preserving the objects that surrounded the world’s most interesting automobiles.

Brochures tell their stories. Manuals explain how they worked. Luggage recalls the journeys for which they were created.

But the steering wheel is different.

It was touched, held and used. It was the physical connection between driver and automobile.

For that reason, a significant vintage steering wheel can be much more than a spare part. Whether crafted from warm timber and aluminium or finished in purposeful black leather, it represents a wonderfully tangible piece of motoring history.

And perhaps that is what makes these objects so appealing to collectors.

You do not simply look at automotive history. You can hold it in your hands.

Lusso Automobilia | For collectors of exceptional automotive history