CRAIG JACKSON’S VIEW FROM THE BLOCK: Welcome to The Auction the World Waits For
January 3, 2025
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
Craig Jackson – Chairman/Chief Executive Officer
It was wonderful seeing so many of our bidders, consignors, exhibitors, sponsors and guests at the Fall Auction this past October – it was just a taste of what is to come in January. With over 1,800 No Reserve cars crossing the block and tens of thousands of bidders and fans participating, the Scottsdale Auction is the premier automotive event the world waits for. Every January, we assemble an impressive lineup of collector cars, bringing the excitement of live auctions to Scottsdale for Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction week. The event also attracts numerous special guests, making it a must-attend for family, friends, car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Opening Night Gala will be held Sunday, January 19, which is also the eve of the presidential inauguration, making it an even more special celebration. The Auction Arena will be transformed into a sophisticated setting where guests can dance, mingle, and enjoy gourmet bites and cocktails.
Over the years, Barrett-Jackson has welcomed many music icons and legends to the stage, including Bret Michaels, Pitbull, Steven Tyler and the Zac Brown Band. Last year was particularly memorable, as we had the pleasure of having Foreigner perform at our inaugural “Rock the Block” concert.
This year, I am thrilled to announce that legendary rocker, car guy and my friend, Sammy Hagar, will be headlining our “Rock the Block” concert on Friday, January 17! Sammy is known for his electrifying performances and dynamic stage presence. He has been a staple in the music industry for decades, captivating audiences with hits from both his solo career and his time with Van Halen. His unique blend of rock and roll, along with his infectious energy, promises to make this concert an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to see him bring the house down and create an incredible atmosphere to start off the nine incredible days of the auction.
Stars and charity cars have always been a part of what makes the Scottsdale Auction so exciting, and this year’s lineup is fantastic. Legendary automotive designer Chip Foose will be on hand for the sale of his custom 2021 Ford F-150 XLT pickup, which will benefit the Progeria Research Foundation, and also coming to the Barrett-Jackson block will be Mike Rowe, known for his work on the hit series “Dirty Jobs.” Mike will help sell a custom 1962 Dodge Power Wagon dubbed “Project S.W.E.A.T.” to support his mikeroweWORKS Foundation and honor those “who show up early, stay late and bust their asses to get the job done.” Another charity car near and dear to my heart is a 1988 Chevrolet Corvette 35th Anniversary Edition that will be sold from the David M. Ressler Collection to benefit the American Heart Association.
In total five spectacular vehicles will benefit great causes, including the first retail production VIN 001 Corvette ZR1, a Barrett-Jackson Edition 2024 Shelby Ford F-150 Baja Raptor and a Chip Foose and RealTruck-designed 2021 Ford F-150 custom pickup.
In addition to all the great cars supporting great causes, we have an incredible docket slated for the auction with some amazing supercars ready to cross the block. I am looking forward to seeing the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, a 2014 Pagani Huayra from the Garage X Collection cross the block as well as elite supercars from the Gilstrap Collection, including a 2022 Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae, 2022 Ferrari SF90 Stradale, 2018 Ferrari 488 GTB 70th Anniversary Edition and a beautiful 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider.
For the first time ever, Super Saturday will be broadcast all day on the History Channel. We will be brining you 10 hours of non-stop live auction action from noon to 10 p.m.
The Scottsdale Auction wouldn’t be possible without the support of all of you, our consignors, bidders, guests, exhibitors and sponsors — including Castrol, Reliable Carriers, Adams Polishes, Meguiar’s, Ford, Dodge, Toyota, Chevrolet, Gila River Resorts & Casinos, and Lumifi.
We look forward to seeing everyone in January and can’t wait to have another rockin’ good time!
— Craig Jackson
With Craig at the helm, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is celebrating over 50 successful years in the collector car hobby. He is an avid car collector, award-winning restorer and racing enthusiast.