Benko Villa Treasures Go Under the Hammer

Luxury Items from Former Immo-Tycoon’s Estate Fetch High Bids

The sprawling estate of former real estate magnate René Benko is currently the scene of a lively auction, with items ranging from luxury vehicles to fine wines attracting significant interest. The bidding continues until Monday morning.

Ferrari Mower Sparks Bidding Frenzy

Among the most sought-after items is a bright red Gianni Ferrari GTS 220 ride-on mower, reportedly purchased for Benko’s groundskeeper. This powerful machine, boasting a 22 hp, 3-cylinder diesel engine, can reach speeds of 11 km/h and features a 110 cm cutting width, with a grass capacity of 900 liters. It has already garnered around 40 bids, with the latest offer reaching 4,600 euros.

Priceless Wine Collection Surfaces

A double magnum bottle of Chateau Palmer Margaux Medoc from 1983 is leading the auction’s wine collection, with bids now exceeding 2,200 euros. The extensive cellar contents are drawing considerable attention from collectors.

High Demand for Personal Touches

Even personal effects are proving highly valuable. The mysterious guest book from the villa, valued at 13,800 euros, has attracted approximately 130 bids. Additionally, the blue welcome mat from Villa Ansaldi has received 69 bids, reaching 1,300 euros, while a “Benko” named door sign has garnered 55 bids, selling for 1,000 euros. A one-meter toy yacht is also proving popular, with 53 bids and an offer of 1,100 euros.

Designer Lighting and Decor on Offer

Rounding out the top auction items are a design furniture collection, including a garden lounge set fetching 5,300 euros, and two illuminated Ferrari signs, each exceeding 4,000 euros. Benko‘s affinity for the Ferrari brand is evident. A designer pendant light, the Antonangeli Mamamia, has reached 3,100 euros. Even the villa’s built-in mood lighting is available, with current bids surpassing 2,800 euros, though buyers must arrange for collection themselves.

Auction Expected to Surpass €100,000

The auction house expects the sale to generate well over 100,000 euros for the administrator overseeing Benko‘s assets. The auction house also benefits from an 18% buyer’s premium on all successful bids.

Globally, luxury asset auctions continue to be strong performers. For example, in 2023, a rare Patek Philippe watch sold for over $7 million at auction, demonstrating the enduring market for high-value collectibles (Sotheby’s 2023 Watch Auction).

René Benko is currently in custody in Vienna. While presumed innocent until proven guilty, his first trial is anticipated to commence this summer.