Count Antonio Naselli

Count Antonio Naselli was an Italian aristocrat, gentleman driver, and early Ferrari enthusiast active in the 1950s. Based in Trevinano, a small town in the province of Viterbo, Naselli was part of the vibrant postwar Italian elite who embraced the emerging culture of high-performance motoring. While not a professional racer, he belonged to a generation of noblemen who supported and participated in the growing Italian motorsport scene, often purchasing high-performance cars directly from the factory.

In March 1954, Count Naselli acquired the Ferrari 340 America Vignale Coupé (chassis 0174A), a powerful and rare grand tourer that reflected both his status and his passion for advanced automotive engineering. His ownership of this car, though relatively brief, is one of the few recorded highlights of his automotive pursuits. Naselli’s use of the car suggests an appreciation for Ferrari’s blend of racing pedigree and luxurious styling—a preference common among Italy’s upper class during that era.

Though little is known about his broader public life, Naselli’s name surfaces periodically in connection with high-end Italian automobiles and discreet involvement in motorsport circles. Like many of his peers, he likely balanced his automotive interests with the duties and lifestyle expected of his social rank. His short tenure with the 340 America places him in the wider narrative of Ferrari’s early clientele: individuals who helped shape the brand’s identity through direct patronage and a shared enthusiasm for speed, style, and innovation.