Treasure from the deep creates auction record

The 1925 Bugatti Type 22 Brescia, which had 1930 French number plates was apparently abandoned by its owner, one George Nielly after import taxes were found to be higher than the car's value. When the duties were not paid, the car had to be destroyed, so Swiss customs officials dumped it in Lake Maggiore. Many of the original numbers are still on the car, and about 20 percent of its components are re-usable. There are some signs that the car may have been modified for racing as it has a simple racing body, minimal electrics, two piece bonnet (normally single) and flared mudguards.The Bugatti was first discovered in August 1967 lying on its left side, partly buried in mud. In 2009 it was salvaged by a local skindiving club, with proceeds from its sale to benefit a charity. The Bugatti was hotly contested at Bonhams Retromobile auction by several keen buyers.