1993 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Carat by Duchatelet | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
1993 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Carat by Duchatelet | Global Icons: The Patina Collective
Chassis No. WDB1290601F081679
Engine No. 103.984.12.00941
Founded in Liège, Belgium, in 1968 by Frédéric Duchatelet, Carat by Duchatelet established itself as one of Europe's foremost luxury coachbuilders, renowned for transforming Mercedes-Benz models into highly bespoke automobiles distinguished by lavish interiors, exotic wood veneers, advanced electronics, and impeccable craftsmanship. Best known for its opulent reinterpretations of the W126 S-Class, the firm became synonymous with exclusivity and craftsmanship at the highest level.
This exceptional 1993 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster represents a rare example of Carat's artistry applied to the iconic R129 platform. The original sales invoice from April 1993 shows this car was ordered new Blue Black Metallic (199U) over a Grey leather interior, and optioned with a four-speed automatic transmission, cruise control, and ASR traction control, carrying an original purchase price in excess of 134,000 Deutsche Marks. Subsequently commissioned to Carat by Duchatelet, the SL received a comprehensive bespoke conversion featuring a striking two-tone green leather interior with matching carpeting, headliner, trunk trim, color-coordinated gauges, extensive burl wood veneer, and even the rare wood-trimmed cellular telephone.
Complementing the coachbuilt interior are period AMG enhancements including a monochromatic de-chromed exterior treatment, lowered suspension, and three-piece AMG Aero III wheels, giving the roadster a purposeful and sporting presence. Additional features include a matching hardtop trimmed with a bespoke green leather headliner, Becker cassette audio system with Mercedes-Benz CD changer, and bi-Xenon headlights.
The SL remained in Germany until its importation to the United States in 2021, where it joined The Patina Collective. As presented today with just 146,359 kilometers (approximately 90,742 miles) at cataloging, this extraordinary R129 combines the engineering excellence of Mercedes-Benz with the bespoke craftsmanship of one of Europe's most respected coachbuilders, resulting in a highly distinctive and seldom-seen expression of 1990s luxury motoring while leaving everyone green with envy.