Keels And Wheels Concours D' Elegance Show

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Industry trends

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Frequently asked

Glossary

1

Concours d'elegance

A judged classic-vehicle exhibition where cars and boats are assessed on authenticity, condition, provenance and presentation rather than on speed or age alone. Keels & Wheels applies the format to automobiles and antique boats at a single waterfront venue.

2

Judged class

A grouping of entries of similar marque, era or type judged against one another, for example a pre-war American class or a wooden runabout class. Entrants usually supply documentation so judges can verify originality.

3

Preservation class

A class for vehicles or boats kept largely as built or as found, with original paint, wood or upholstery, rather than fully restored. Judges reward documented originality here.

4

Brass era

The earliest period of automobile production, roughly 1896 to 1915, when cars carried brass lamps, radiators and fittings. Brass-era entries are among the rarest vehicles on a concours field.

5

Survivor

An unrestored vehicle or boat retaining most of its original components and finishes. Survivors are valued for the evidence of use and history they carry.

6

Matching numbers

A car whose engine, chassis and body numbers correspond to the factory build record. Provenance documentation raises a car's standing with judges and buyers.

7

Patina

The aged surface of original paint, chrome, leather or varnished wood that collectors read as evidence of honest history. Heavy polishing can reduce value on a preservation entry.

8

Runabout

A small, open wooden motorboat, typically mahogany or cedar, popular from the 1920s to the 1950s. Runabouts are a core display category at Keels & Wheels.

9

Launch

A larger open or semi-enclosed classic motorboat used for day trips. Restored launches often appear in the water at the club marina rather than on trailers.

10

Brightwork

Polished metal fittings, chrome, brass and stainless trim on a car or boat. Judges and owners inspect brightwork closely for correct finish and period pattern.

11

Varnish

The clear coating that protects and displays a wooden hull's grain. The number of coats and the depth of finish are a visible measure of restoration quality on classic boats.

12

Haul-out and launch

Lifting a boat out of the water or returning it to the water, usually with a travel lift or crane at a boatyard. Exhibitors showing afloat need to coordinate this with the marina.

13

Trailer queen

Collector slang for a car or boat transported to shows and rarely driven or cruised. The term is descriptive, not a judging class.

14

Automobilia

Collectible automotive objects such as signage, badges, tools, manuals, posters and period accessories. Vendors at classic-car shows commonly trade automobilia alongside parts.