It’s the end of an era. We don’t know if this will mark the beginning of a new one, but the closing of Joop Stolze’s business—“The Mad Hatter”—the Dutchman well known across Europe for his decades-long activity, has come as a shock to many, starting with us.

His is a name that every classic car enthusiast in Europe is bound to know, and many, many more in the USA and around the world as well. Over the past four decades, virtually every classic car—European, American, Japanese, or otherwise—has passed through his hands, often more than one example of each model. But not only cars: spare parts, motorcycles, automobilia, petroliana.

Perhaps the guardian spirit of European collectors has decided it’s time to retire, and of course we respect his decision, even though it leaves us feeling a little more “alone.” In fact, the world of classic cars moves in “eras”: the passion for vehicles from the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s is slowly fading away, just like the generations who lived through them. In the future, only the truly significant models from those decades will continue to grow in value, while others may face harder times. But back to the auction: over 1,100 lots divided into five parts for a sale to remember—cars, motorcycles, automobilia, and everything that smells like gasoline will soon find new owners.

Enjoy your well-earned rest, Mr. Stolze. You deserve it.