Lacroix Et Delaville LA NEF 1902

The History of Lacroix et DeLaVille

At the dawn of the twentieth century, in an age when horse-drawn carriages were slowly giving way to mechanical innovation, the French house of Lacroix et DeLaVille was renowned as one of the most forward-thinking pioneers in the motor industry. The marque built vehicles with an unrivalled attention to detail, typical of the artisan ateliers that shaped the transition from coachbuilding to motorisation.

With production figures that rarely rose above two hundred examples per model, the creations of Lacroix et DeLaVille were works of art rather than mere objects of utility. Their vehicles were admired for their graceful lines, their technical curiosity and the elegance of the early Belle Époque.

The La Nef model: a herald of a new age

The Lacroix et DeLaVille La Nef belongs to those exceedingly rare vehicles that mark the passage from a world ruled by horsepower (in the literal sense) to the dawning age of the engine. With an estimated 200 examples ever built, the La Nef is today a true museum piece, a rare find you would normally encounter only in international collections.

The name "La Nef", French for "the ship", is fitting: the car seems to sail through time and history rather than simply drive. Its distinctive tiller-style steering points directly to this nautical spirit and makes the vehicle fascinating both technically and historically. It is a remarkable reminder of a period when the rules of the modern car did not yet exist and designers were guided by creativity and experiment.

A beautifully preserved and iconic example

The example on offer is in lovely original condition, precisely what lovers of authentic vehicles hope to find. The green paintwork combines superbly with the black leather, which further reinforces the car's understated yet stately presence.

The rarity of this example, a unique find in its own right, combined with its striking technical configuration and early build date, makes this an opportunity that comes along only very seldom. For collectors, museums and enthusiasts of automotive heritage, the La Nef is an unrivalled addition.

Come and view this unique Lacroix et DeLaVille La Nef

We warmly invite you to admire the Lacroix et DeLaVille La Nef in our showroom in Katwijk. Its beauty, originality and historical value only truly come to life when you see it with your own eyes.

• Exceptionally rare: an estimated ±200 examples ever built
• Unique tiller-style steering
• Lovely original condition
• Green exterior
• Black leather
• Historic design (built in 1902)
• Authentic body lines and classic driving mechanics
• A unique find, extremely rare on the market