The Lambert Collection became part of the Cité de l'Automobile Collection in 2013 and brings together the remaining constructions of this skilled car mechanic who worked in Macon in 1926, and later in Reims, before settling in Giromagny (near Belfort) after the war. He built twenty very different types of cars, whenever he succeeded in finding funding. His most successful period was in Giromagny from 1948 to 1952, where he would have had many customers had he succeeded in finding a financial backer. Lambert eventually gave up his passion for designing and building cars, and instead turned his attention to the creation of a small French automobile museum devoted to collections of old and vintage cars.

The four cars and their corresponding archives allow the museum to present an exceptional collection, and are a rare example of an age when craftsmanship and innovation went hand in hand. In fact, this combination of skill and inventiveness would go on to make the French car industry one of the best in the world.

In 2013, the acquisition of this unique collection was made possible through a special tax scheme devoted to the protection of national heritage. This innovative tax scheme was the result of a law enacted in 2002, the aim of which was to conserve national treasures in France. The four vehicles by Germain Lambert were recognized as having an important heritage value in October of 2012, and were then acquired by the Cité de l’Automobile thanks to this specific tax scheme and the aid of French company, Motul.

Since their arrival in Mulhouse, the collection has undergone a first restoration campaign. ‘La Seize’ in particular has been the subject of extensive restoration work in order to restore the vehicle to its Bol d’or prizewinning condition of 1952. The cabriolet requires a little more work before it resembles its former glory. However, just two years after entering the museum, it is already on display to the public.

Discover the following 4 cars:
- Front wheel drive model from 1931
- Berlinette ‘6CV’ model from 1948
- ‘La Seize’ model from 1949
- Cabriolet sports car model from 1951

Photos : © Denis Sollier