Case · Bechtel Classic Motors — Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing
A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing — restored down to the last detail and captured in a film about automotive history, craftsmanship and timeless design.
Finished at the factory in DB 353 Light Blue over red leather, matching numbers, fully restored by Bechtel Classic Motors. The film follows Eric Blumencranz's 300 SL Gullwing from the workshop in Germany to the California coast, where it took its place on the lawn at The Quail during Monterey Car Week 2026.
- Client
- Bechtel Classic Motors
- Industry
- Automotive
- Services
- Cinematography · Automotive · Post-Production
The Approach
The thread running through it is an interview with Eric Blumencranz, a collector from Sands Point, New York, filmed outside his garage with a Gullwing, doors raised, behind him. Between his words, the film opens up the restoration: footage of the exposed spaceframe, details from the workshop, the car being loaded under its cover. In California the road takes over — Big Sur in the coastal fog, dry hills, the yellow centre line, tracking shots at hubcap height. Close-ups of the side vents, the brightwork and the 300 SL script show where the work went.
The Result
Just under eight minutes of film that tell a restoration from its final chapter: from the covered car in the warehouse to the lawn at The Quail. The images leave space for the fog, the light and the Gullwing's lines — and show the car the way it was meant to be seen: in motion.
Client voice
“Dear Florian, thank you for your wonderful work, professionalism, flexibility and the passion you never lose along the way. We look forward to working together again!”
Michelle StürzManaging Director & Head of Marketing, Bechtel Classic Motors10+
Countries
Automotive
single source
2026
Production
After the shoot, the real magic begins: editing, sound, color grading and retouching — the distinctive look that carries the brand.
Credits
Florian Schmucker — Cinematography · Automotive · Post-Production
