I never had a chance to meet Art Astor but we do have something in common. A 50-year broadcasting veteran, Art is also a renowned classic cars collector. I'm a 50-year veteran of automobile journalism and a former broadcaster. When I learned of his extraordinary Californian museum with its 250 cars and remarkable collection of early radios, telephones, televisions and microphones I immediately posted a blog. An entrepreneur who owned a network of radio stations, Art Astor used some of the profits to build his unique classic car and broadcasting museum.
Like most of us, Art Astor eventually felt the need to downsize and has now put Canada's RM Auctions in charge of selling his cars, his broadcast equipment (all in working condition), and an eclectic variety of Art Deco furniture and decor. The cars include Howard Hughes' 1940 Cadillac Series 75 Formal Sedan; a restored 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Playboy Roadster purchased by silent-film star Tom Mix; and a 1957 Chrysler 300C Convertible formerly owned by musician Richard Carpenter. It's a "no reserve" sale, taking place June 27-29 in Anaheim, California.