Cheffins will host an on-site sale of over 80 classic and vintage tractors on Saturday, April 2nd, 2022, in Newry, Northern Ireland.
The auctioneering company will offer the items for sale on behalf of well-known collector, Aidan Strain.
Strain began the collection in the 1990s, with a focus on Massey Fergusons, David Browns, Fords, and Internationals. The collection now encompasses 81 tractors, as well as various vehicles, implements and spares.
Strain is now selling the collection to allow for the growth of his business, Aidan Strain Electrical Engineering Ltd.
Vintage tractors
He provided the following highlights of the forthcoming sale:
- 1963 Doe Triple D, which has undergone a recent restoration and has a presale estimate of £50,000 – £60,000
- 1950s David Brown 50D, which has an estimate of £30,000 – £35,000;
- 1960s County 654, with an estimate of £25,000 – £30,000;
- 1970s Roadless 115, estimate £15,000 – £18,000;
- 1953 Roadless B450, estimate £14,000 – £16,000;
- 1970s Massey Ferguson 135 four-wheel drive, which is estimated to sell for £18,000 – £22,000.
Growing collection for 30 years
Ahead of the sale, he said:
“I was born on a farm, and as soon as I could, I started buying up tractors from the 1960s and 1970s, ones which we used during my childhood.”
“To note, I have been growing this collection now for over 30 years. I always knew that when I reached my mid-60s I would have to sell up, other things in life have now taken over. I want someone else to be able to enjoy them.”
Aidan sought out and collected tractors that remind him of his youth on the farm. He discovered examples of the tractors which his grandfather and father used, such as the International B250 and B414.
As he got older, he moved onto Massey Fergusons and worked with many different tractors on his neighbour’s farms, which led him to add this brand to his collection.
He explained: “I have bought these tractors from everywhere, from auctions or even ones I have driven past on the road.”
“When I had time and I was younger, I used to love doing them up, and now all of the tractors on offer are in tip-top condition. I will be sad to see the tractors go but always knew this day would come.”
Oliver Godfrey, Director, Cheffins said this will be one of the largest single-vendor collections to come available in Northern Ireland for decades.
Aidan Strain has amassed a “hugely” impressive collection here, with a clear direction in terms of which tractors he was buying.
“Only examples of the best quality are available at the sale, many of which have been carefully restored over recent years. This is set to be an important sale. We look forward to being able to offer it to the market,” he concluded.
The sale will take place on April 2nd, both online via www.cheffins.co.uk and on-site at Mullaghbawn, Newry, Northern Ireland.
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