20 April 2008

Les Anciennes Fleuries - Fiat 600 Jolly Ghia


"In 1958, Fiat shipped a number of Fiat 600s to the Italian design house, Ghia, for conversion into the Jolly. Featuring wicker seats and the option of a fringed top to shield its occupants from the Mediterranean sun, these cars were originally made for use on large yachts of the wealthy. Arisototle Onassis owned one.

With a cost of nearly double that of a standard '600' they were made in a very limited production. It's believed that fewer than 100 exist today, each one being unique. 32 Jolly cars were used as taxis on the island of Catalina off the coast of Los Angeles in the years 1958-1962." - Wikipedia

21 comments:

  1. Wouldn't it be Jolly if we could borrow that wonderful car for a few hours. I'll bring the wine, you bring the bread & cheese.... and I guess you should drive - I would run into everything since you guys drive on the wrong side of the road!!!!

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  2. I had no idea such an automobile existed. Never saw one and would have thought an auto expert who would be talking about a Jolly onboard a ship would be talking about some kind of sex act. What a hoot these cars and names are.

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  3. That is a cool car. I had no idea they were used for a huge yacht! Learn something new everyday!

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  4. ....I am particularly intrigued by the clever addition of a human head to the back seat to add charm and companionship for lonely billionaires.

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  5. Not QUITE as sexy as that MG, but fun!

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  6. I love the wicker seats! I've never seen such a thing in a car before.

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  7. I think I need a bigger Jolly ship !

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  8. I have enjoyed this series of images devoted to all the odd, sweet little cars this week. Such vibrant colours, makes achnge from alll the plain grey siver ones we see now.

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  9. Very very cool shot! Love this! :-D

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  10. Very interesting and beautiful car. The seats looked different, looked like they are made of cane.

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  11. yes it's fun :-) --- It's possible to say some of them in Capri yet

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  12. A fabulous car, a great bit of history, and a great picture.

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  13. What a cute car! Love the color and the seats.

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  14. I have been meaning to thank you for your several recent comments, so merci beaucoup. Your thoughts are always insightful.

    I may have missed something in this series but I don't understand the reason for decorating the cars with flowers. Perhaps an antique car rally or a wedding? I've seen cars covered with flowers for wedding celebrations in India, China and Thailand. It would never happen in the US. The bridal party rides around in a huge, solemn limousine with a bar inside.

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  15. Jilly, I LOVE the car shots! And I love this blue beauty; wish I had one here. :)

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  16. How FAB - U - LOUS!!!!
    Wicker seats and a fringed top.
    I'd kill for one!

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  17. Jilly, this series is one of your best! You captured the beauty of these cars so very well!

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  18. what an adorable car? I have a soft spot for Fiats. What a lovely color?

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  19. Fiat....now there's a car I haven't seen in quite a few years!.Rates right up there with an Opal....nice car.

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