BMW BUBBLE

Originally produced by the Italian firm Iso SpA in 1953, the Isetta microcar was later built under license in numerous countries including Germany where BMW took to the 'bubble car' like no other in 1955. Adapting and altering the parts so much that nothing was interchangeable between the original Italian and BMW variants.

The BMW Isetta with its redesigned one-cylinder, four-stroke, 247cc motorcycle powerplant became the world's first mass-production car to achieve a fuel consumption of 94 mpg and was the highest selling single-cylinder car in the world, boasting a 161,728 production run.

This 1960 BMW Isetta 300 - which features the 300cc variant engine introduced in 1956 which saw an enlargement of the single cylinder to a 72mm bore and 73mm stroke, providing a displacement of exactly 298cc - boasts the increased output of 13hp and updated sliding windows that replaced the 'bubble' glazing.

It is a rare right-hand drive model finished in a striking blue over white coachwork that received a restoration in 2018 complete with new blue interior; re-covered bench seat and new carpets; all new badges, chrome-work, new carburettors and engine rebuild. These cars don't come around very often and this is very high quality example.

Since the start of 2023 there has certainly been plenty of activity in the market, with a steady stream of supply and tenants looking to put down roots across central London. Not only does it provide access to a covetable lifestyle, it gives the flexibility to try out different hot spot neighbourhoods before committing to buying and the considerable stamp duty outlay that now involves.

When it comes to sought after locations, the golden post codes of prime central London ultimately prevail. Chelsea, Kensington, Notting Hill, Mayfair and St. Jon’s Wood are all top of tenants lists, largely for the stock that is available here, the world renowned and respected school system and the city’s cosmopolitan feel.

Mayfair in particular has had a bit of a renaissance in recent months and it has been firmly placed back on the map. The slightly more saturated market and limited stock here creates an exciting market and adds a sense of exclusivity, that tenants at this level want.

We also see many clients who are renovating their home and are therefore looking to rent nearby so often the question has become ‘can I walk my children to school and pop to the building project easily from here?’.

There’s undoubtedly a favour towards keeping stock off market, especially in the early days of a launch. In the current market I’d say around 70% of our super prime lettings stock - so that is homes achieving