Personal Collection of French Designer Robin Chrétien Head to Online Auction on February 29

Each item from the sprawling Los Angeles warehouse of Chrétien, founder of the luxury denim brand Robin’s Jean, reflects his love for American culture and distinctive biker-chic aesthetic.

(Los Angeles, Calif. – February 13, 2024) – Rare collectibles from the personal collection of French fashion designer Robin Chrétien, whose luxury denim brand Robin’s Jean is known as a cult classic, will head to online auction on February 29. Live bidding for the online sale will start at 10 a.m. PST, with items being held for preview at the expansive Robin’s Jean warehouse in Los Angeles.

An eclectic assortment of vintage motorcycles, neon advertising signs, electric guitars, billboards, and motorcycle and vintage street signs will highlight the sale, featuring over 230 lots. Each item reflects the designer’s creative energy, love for American culture and passion for hitting wide open roads on a motorcycle. Chrétien is renowned not only for his innovative designs and biker-chic aesthetic, but as a foremost collector of neon signs and Indian Motorcycle memorabilia. Items range in value from $100 to $100,000.

“Robin Chrétien curated every item with exceptional creativity and passion to adorn his flagship stores around the world,” said Abell Auction Co. Vice President Todd Schireson. “He held a deep desire to share the American story with the public, and purchased what he loved to showcase the country he fell in love with.”

Chrétien, a fashion icon, was born in Grenoble, France, immersed in a creative environment that shaped his destiny. However, his true love story with denim began at the age of 14 when he acquired and sported his first pair of jeans. His journey led him to Los Angeles in 1996, where he quickly conquered the denim industry as a designer for renowned brands such as Blue Cult and Hudson before leaving his own mark.

But beyond the professional milestones, it is Chrétien’s unique soul that illuminates his exceptional trajectory. Inspired by Native American history, motorcycle culture, and the golden age of cinema, he fused his passions to create Robin’s Jean in 2005. This iconic label is much more than just a denim brand; it reflects the designer’s dream and freedom of creation.

At the heart of this adventure lies a distinctive wing motif, symbolizing Chrétien’s boldness and aspiration for innovation. Each rare piece auctioned becomes a tangible illustration of the spirit and history of American culture, a passionate echo that Chrétien has carried throughout his legendary career in the fashion world.

Thus, beyond being a renowned designer, Chrétien emerges as an iconic personality, captivating the world with his authenticity, visionary creativity and unwavering love for the United States. His career is not simply a success story but an extraordinary saga woven with passion, dreams and the tireless pursuit of artistic freedom. Featured sale items include:

 Neon Advertising Signs

 Other Notable Items

 “This auction is not just about the items, but about the story they tell of American heritage,” said Chrétien. “Each piece has been a part of my journey in celebrating the rich and vibrant culture of America. I am thrilled to share this passion with fellow collectors and enthusiasts.”

For a complete auction catalog, visit www.abell.com. An auction preview will be held the week prior to auction and by appointment at the Robin’s Jean warehouse located at 6760 Foster Bridge Blvd. in Bell Gardens near Los Angeles. Visit www.abell.com or call 310.858.3073 for more detail.

Prospective bidders may register for the auction and obtain more information at  www.abell.com. Buyers may place absentee bids with Abell directly, bid via telephone or bid online at www.abell.com,  LiveAuctioneers.com or Invaluable.com.

Visuals Click here for high-resolution images of featured auction items.

Vintage motorcycles, biker memorabilia, neon advertising signs and billboards will be among the rare items from the personal collection of French fashion designer Robin Chrétien offered at Abell Auction Co.’s February 29 online sale. www.abell.com

RevTech Performance “Easy Rider” Captain America Motorcycle

1970s-era Custom Denver’s Choppers Yellow Motorcycle

In 1916, company founder A.N. Abell established Abell Auction Co. as Los Angeles’ first permanent auction house that would serve generations of loyal clients to come. Abell has been entrusted with fine estates and collections for over a century, handling the treasured belongings of many high-profile clients and legendary figures in Hollywood. Now in its fourth generation of continuous family operation, Abell’s weekly and quarterly sales attract an international audience of buyers. Visit www.abell.com or call 310.858.3073.

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