1969 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 “Queen Mary”

It was at the Paris Salon in 1967 where Ferrari introduced its new gentleman’s grand tourer the 365 GT 2+2. A car penned by Pininfarina with direct influence from the iconic 500 Superfast the 365 GT 2+2 quickly attracted the attention of the worlds “Jet Set” and celebrities of its time.

Affectionately earning the moniker “Queen Mary” after its namesake, the 1,000 feet long RMS Queen Mary, it was a term of endearment not only due to its extended length ensuring it was a true 2+2 unlike its competitors, but because of its unmatched levels of luxury. With its elegant, imposing lines, it was the first Ferrari to feature power steering, power brakes, electric windows and air-conditioning, a spacious luggage compartment and two proper rear seats.

Without any effort, the 365 GT was not just a beautiful car, but a very fast and usable one. Its 2+2 layout combined with its V12 Columbo engine and 5-speed gearbox, was a combination that proved to be more than successful among famous owners like Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis and even Enzo Ferrari himself who always championed the gentleman’s GT, a model he was most proud of.

Production of the Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 commenced in 1967 and concluded in 1971 with only 800 units built over a 5-year cycle. Even rarer is the RHD production with just 52 units produced from that number.

Classic Throttle Shop is most proud to bring to market this stunning, original mileage and rare factory right hand drive Ferrari 365 GT 2+2. Commissioned in October 1968 by Maranello Concessionaires Ltd, chassis 12089 was delivered to its first owner, Messrs Skellys of Glasgow – in February 1969 with the registered plate AYT 1.

Between 1972 and 1979, two additional custodians in Mr. David Lawrence and Mr. Charles Howard St. John enjoyed the ownership before being purchased by its most famous owner, The Lord Brocket: Charles Nall-Cain, 3rd Baron Brocket.

The first Ferrari to be acquired in a collection of 42 rare Ferrari and Maserati’s, Lord Brocket treated chassis 12089 (the Brocket Rocket) to an extensive restoration, revising the original colour scheme of Celeste Gainsborough over Blue to a classically smart and inviting Nero Coachwork over Tan Connolly hide – a combination thoroughly suiting the 365 GT 2+2 and presents the same today.

Whilst the colourful Lord Brocket went on to be an author, businessman, TV personality and a Guest-of-her-majesty – chassis 12089 continued its English ownership over the next 20 years, driven rarely however maintained extensively with a documented gearbox and power steering rebuild in 1994 and continual servicing, MOT and authenticated mileage up until its exportation to Australia with 18,810 original miles.

Arriving on our shores in 2013, chassis 12089 resided in the coastal town of Byron Bay with its first local owner before being purchased and showcased by the Gosford Classic Car Museum – one of the largest collection of classic and collectible cars in the world.

In 2019 with 20,072 miles, a thorough mechanical overhaul was carried out by Ferrari North Shore over a 12 month period including:

• Complete Engine Rebuild

• Carburettor Overhaul

• Driveshaft Rebuild

• Suspension Rebuild

• Gearbox & Differential Rebuild

• Brake Overhaul

• Air-Conditioning Overhaul

• Complete Service

• Wheel Alignment

The Pininfarina coachwork shows off its beauty without compromise. The exterior paintwork has survived its restoration of some 30 years, with a deep luster and patina that could tell some stories. The refurbished original “knock-off” Campagnolo 10-hole wheels are in great condition and sport the correct Pirelli Cinturato tyres.

The interior is the place to be when it comes to the “Queen Mary”. Luxury a plenty, and as typical of Ferrari’s of this period, more toggles and switches than you can shake a stick at, all in working order. Housed in a wood dashboard facia wrapped in black vinile, the Veglia Borletti gauges are all complete and importantly house the original 21,368 documented miles.

The thin-rim three-spoke steering wheel is just perfect with the seats, door cards and carpet in excellent condition. The boot is correctly carpeted with all leather rolls, tool kits and jack as well as a full size correct spare wheel completes the package.

The engine bay, housing Ferriari’s iconic 4.4ltr Columbo V12 is equally impressive. Fitted with triple Weber caburettors it is an orchestral symphony and with its recent engine rebuild, ready for its next Grand Tour.

The comprehensive and complete history file that accompanies this impressive Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 is like taking a stroll back to 1969. With original Factory documentation back to the build sheets, correspondence between owners, the factory and suppliers, the twin volume archive follows the fabled journey of this extremely rare example.

With itemised receipts, service invoices, original handbooks, brochures and certificates, It is the stuff car collectors and enthusiasts dreams are made of, sat by the fire on a perfect Sunday evening, delving deep into the passage of time with wonderful ownership and an amazing stories to tell.

It is undeniable that all Ferrari’s are special. Anything that has rolled out of the gates at Maranello comes standard with a sprinkling of Factory-Ferrari greatness.

Undoubtedly one of the best and most complete examples of a right hand drive Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 “Queen Mary” we have ever seen, it heralds from a period when cars were built with passion and purpose. Cars like this are built to be driven and enjoyed and now its ready for a new owner to continue that tradition.

A legitimately rare and special RHD example in part due to its preserved condition and in part its amazing history, but also the ability to transport you from A to B in unrivalled style, comfort and speed.