A Masterclass in Automotive Excellence: The Bridge VIII
Where rare cars and the Hamptons charm meet the ultimate collector’s event
By Daniel Hilpert
October 1, 2024
September in the Hamptons is as close to perfection as you can get. The crowds have thinned, the beaches are still warm, and the restaurants hum with a lively, knowing crowd. After a long lunch in Sag Harbor with friends—a raw bar feast washed down with Vesper martinis—we made our way to The Bridge, the highly anticipated car event that never fails to excite.
The drive to the event is an experience in itself. The parking lot could easily be mistaken for a high-end car show—Ferraris, Porsches, and Aston Martins lined up with effortless style. Stepping out, you’re greeted by open fields where polo ponies graze, creating a serene backdrop for the stunning modern art installations scattered around. It’s a perfect prelude to what lies ahead at The Bridge—an extraordinary gathering where cars, art, and luxury collide.
Inside, over 300 rare and coveted automobiles await, each a masterpiece in its own right. Among the standouts this year was the Czinger 21C V Max, a marvel of modern engineering with its 3D-printed chassis and gleaming Mojave Gold finish. It’s a car that looks ready to break the sound barrier at any moment. Not far behind in terms of sheer spectacle was the Eccentrica V12, a beautifully executed restomod that celebrates the iconic Lamborghini Diablo while bringing it into the modern era with striking finesse. And let’s not forget KARMA, whose Kaveya Electric Super Coupe, making its debut, turned as many heads as the more classic offerings.
Then, of course, there’s the timepiece element. Richard Mille, the presenting sponsor, did more than just showcase their famous watches—they created an immersive experience. Their lounge featured images of their elite athlete partners, like Rafael Nadal and Charles Leclerc, perfectly aligning the brand with the speed, precision, and excellence of the cars on display. The synergy between haute horology and high-performance vehicles was seamless, a natural fit for an event of this caliber.
As the day unfolded, it reminded me why this is my third year attending The Bridge—and why I’ll be back next year. It’s not just a car show; it’s an elegant convergence of craftsmanship and design. Where else can you casually stroll among some of the world’s rarest automobiles, discuss the future of electric powertrains, and admire art installations, all while sipping a perfectly mixed martini? More than that, it’s about the connections—the chance to network with fellow enthusiasts, collectors, and industry insiders. A sincere nod to the event’s organizers, Robert Rubin, Shamin Abas, and Jeffrey Einhorn, who have turned The Bridge into a masterpiece of art, design, and automotive excellence. It’s an unforgettable day that perfectly captures the spirit of the Hamptons—and the timeless allure of the automobile.