It's a landmark sale in the world of collectors. In the United States, the Bachman family is preparing to part with one of the most famous private collections of Ferrari in the world: more than 40 models, all painted in the same brilliant color, Giallo Modena yellow. This extraordinary collection will be auctioned at the prestigious Mecum Kissimmee 2026 sale, to be held from January 6 to 18 in Florida.
A passion born of a love affair... with yellow
The story of this collection begins in the 1980s, when Phil Bachman, a successful car dealer in Tennessee, fulfilled a dream by buying his first Ferrari: a 308 GTS QV. But unlike the majority of Maranello customers who opted for red, Phil chose a singular hue: Modena yellow.
This choice, which he considered more daring and luminous, would become his signature. Over the decades, he would have all his Ferraris repainted or commissioned in this color, creating an ensemble unique in the world.
The collector who always wanted the last one
More than just a hobbyist, Phil Bachman was a true Ferraristi. His collecting philosophy was simple but demanding: acquire the last produced example of each model, often with special configurations or extremely rare factory specifications.
In his garage, you'll find absolute icons like the 288 GTO, the F40, the F50, the Enzo, the LaFerrari and even a circuit-going FXX, all in yellow and in exceptional condition. Some have only a few hundred kilometers on the odometer.
A collection that became a legend
Based in Greeneville, Tennessee, the Bachman Ferrari Collection has been built up over more than 40 years. Over time, it became a legend in the automotive world. Enthusiasts knew Phil and his wife Martha as benevolent and respected figures in the Ferrari world, present at Concours d'Elegance and Ferrari Club of America events.
But this incredible adventure came to an end in the summer of 2025: Phil Bachman died on August 4, 2025, at the age of 87. His death marked the end of an era. His son Philip and his family decided to entrust the collection to Mecum Auctions for a historic auction, as a tribute to his passion and legacy.
Maranello heritage on the market
According to Mecum Auctions, 48 cars will be on offer, including over 40 yellow Ferraris (and Alfa Romeo 8Cs), all chosen for their importance in the brand's history and their impeccable condition. Also on offer are several front-engined V12 Ferraris, such as the 599 SA Aperta and the F12tdf.
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," commented Mecum Auctions. "The Bachman collection alone traces half a century of the evolution of Ferrari design and performance."
For collectors, the sale of this collection, hitherto jealously guarded in a private setting, represents a historic moment, comparable to the dispersal of the Maranello Rosso or Preston Henn collections.
A legacy that will continue to shine
Phil Bachman didn't collect for speculation, but for love. Each car was chosen, pampered, cared for, often displayed like a work of art. To see it go to auction is to turn over a new leaf. Next January, the spotlight will be on these 40 yellow Ferraris, golden reflections of a life devoted to Italian excellence. And no doubt, somewhere, Phil Bachman will be smiling as his "Giallo Modena" lights up the stage one last time.
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