LOT 108 *N
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part III c.1953 Lambretta 125cc Tipo E Motor Scooter Registration no. not registered Frame no. 125 E 031387 Engine no. *104939* 125 E
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part III, c.1953 Lambretta 125cc Tipo E Motor Scooter
The Connoisseurs Collection, Part III
c.1953 Lambretta 125cc Tipo E Motor Scooter
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 125 E 031387
Engine no. *104939* 125 E
c.1953 Lambretta 125cc Tipo E Motor Scooter
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 125 E 031387
Engine no. *104939* 125 E
If this Lot is to remain in the UK, or is not exported within 90 days of the sale, Import VAT at 5% of the hammer price will be payable.
Manufactured by the Italian industrial giant Innocenti, the Lambretta gained instant acceptance in the immediate post-war years, not the least because of its cleanliness and convenience. Introduced in 1947, the Lambretta was a less radical design than Piaggio's rival Vespa, using a traditional tube frame rather than the Vespa's pressed-steel monocoque chassis. The engine was exposed in the Lambretta and the leg shields were smaller than the Vespa's, but in its favour the Innocenti product had a larger engine and a pillion seat, making ownership potentially a more sociable experience. The 125cc engine produced 4.3bhp, which was good enough for a top speed of 65-70km/h (40-44mph).
The Lambretta was progressively developed through versions 'B', 'C' and 'D' before arriving at the 'E' in 1953. 'E' stood for 'Economico', denoting a basic, entry-level model. The Economico lacked the all-enclosing bodywork that customers had come to expect from an up-to-the-minute motor scooter, while the adoption of pull-cord starting only served to emphasise its utilitarian nature. Perhaps not surprisingly, the 'E' did not prove as popular as the contemporary 'D' and 'LD' models and lasted in production for only one year
This rare and collectible Lambretta is presented in restored condition, although the paint to the headstock was worn away while in transit and one of the plastic control levers broken. Our vendor purchased the scooter from well-known journalist and collector, Giovanni Perrone (see copy of pro forma invoice on file). The engine turns over.
Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Key not required
Footnotes
BUYER'S PREMIUM
The Buyer's Premium for this Lot is 15%+VAT on the first £500k of the Hammer Price, and 12%+VAT on the balance thereafter.
All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS
Please see the 'CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS' at the top of the main sale page (Motorcycles Online - The Summer Sale) for all pertinent information regarding bidder's obligations, viewing, bidding, payment, post-sale collection & transportation.
REQUEST A TRANSPORT QUOTE
To request a UK or European Motorcycle shipping quote visit Moving Motorcycles.
To request an International Motorcycle shipping quote visit Shippio.
To request a Memorabilia and Spares shipping quote visit Mail Boxes Etc - Milton Keynes.












Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Motorcycles specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistAuction Viewings
- 10 June 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
- 11 June 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
Lot symbols
| * | Import low rate |
| VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium. | |
| N | NOVA declaration |
| This machine is subject to post-sale customs administration and, for UK Buyers, a NOVA declaration. Whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice, as follows: for Live Public Sales: £350 + VAT; for Timed, Online-only Sales: £195 + VAT. |























