Click on image to enlarge

No. 1

We originally chose a 1948 Simca 6 lensed by legendary French photographer Robert Doisneau (1912-1994) as the first car to appear in our new issue: AUTO WORLD.  In that photo, the Simca 6 was shown as a small but functional vehicle capable of hauling a family and their camping supplies to a vacation spot in the French countryside.  The image was thrilling but the photograph was black-and-white.

Not until recently did we find the sweet picture (above) of a 1958 Simca Aronde driven by French comedian and cellist, Maurice Baquet* (1911-2002,) who, as it turns out, collaborated with Doisneau for a series of amusing photos during the 1950's -60's.  Here Baquet is seen puttering around the country roads near Chamonix in the French Alps.  His face is ruddy and joyful as he savors the sunlight and fresh air.  As for us, we're just happy that it's a color photo.  We love color photography and hope you do too!

Breaking with our mission statement for this website, the featured photograph is not from our private collection - we've purchased the rights to reproduce this delightful vision of a pleasurable journey in an adorable car driven by a beloved comedian/cellist, from a charming photo agency.

*kind of like Victor Borge .

1958 Simca Aronde        

Robert Doisneau
chromogenic print
12 × 12”