Christian Philippsen

Christian Philippsen is a senior specialist in cars of exceptional interest, contemporary and classic, and loves their mechanics and design.

Before starting his own consultancy in 1988, he had been employed by Jacques Swaters at Garage / Ecurie Francorchamps (1965-1969, Ferrari importer in Belgium, and racing team with regular participations in long distance racing including the 24 Hours of Le Mans). He then moved on to Michelin (1970-1978, international career), after which he left the professional universe of the automobile to set up a partnership with Albert Uderzo, the father of Asterix, the comic strip hero. He published the books, developed the licensing business in the world and, following the Disney model, was behind the launch of the Parc Asterix north of Paris, a successful investment of, at the time, over 150 million US$ / Euros (1979-1987).

Since 1988, Christian Philippsen's office has built a reputation for conceiving and organising automobile events, and for advising the parties active in the world of car collecting and automotive design, working for clients as diverse as Louis Vuitton, Pininfarina, Finpiemonte or Motor Presse. He has also been a consultant and an auctioneer with Christie's for thirteen years and closely involved with the success of their worldwide motor cars sales. Last but not least, since 2005, he has taken over the publication of Automobile Year, 'the' bible for all enthusiasts.

Long time 'soul' of the Club Ferrari France, chairman of the jury for the Louis Vuitton Classic awards, honorary judge at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, European advisor to the International Advisory Council for the Preservation of the Ferrari Automobile, he regularly publishes features in the specialised press and is an active participant in historic events.

Born in Belgium and now 62, Christian Philippsen lives in Monaco. He is fluent in French, English, German, has a good command of Italian and Swedish, and still understands Flemish/Dutch.

Visit Christian Phillipsen on the web at www.ChristianPhilippsen.com.