The Da Vinci Auto Coach

Inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci’s sketches from 1478 of a self propelled car, this is the working auto coach that pays homage to the polymath’s original design. Considered an ancestor of the modern car, Da Vinci’s concept mobile was propelled by coiled springs that were wound by pulling the vehicle backwards. Just like its inspiration, the Da Vinci auto coach has coils attached to the rear wheels that are wound by pulling the car backwards; releasing it transfers the energy to clock-like spur gears that drive the auto coach forward for several feet. Updated with a modern, aerodynamic body, the auto coach is made from 1/8"-thick, laser-cut stainless steel and brass bearings that generate smooth, elegant movement of the gears, axles, and wheels. Requiring a full day’s work to complete, the key components of the car are cut to precise tolerances on-site and hand-assembled in the manufacturer’s Denver facility. The swirling, brushed finish is created by hand in a pattern unique to each vehicle. Presented in a custom-made wood box with a polished granite base and laser-etched nameplate. 8" L x 4" W x 5" H. (2 1/3 lbs.)