What is Special About a Vespa Scooter?
Parked outside Forfar Road Gallery & Collectibles in Roxburgh, the vintage Vespa motor scooter does more than catch the eye — it signals the gallery is open and offers a hint of the treasures inside. A mid-century icon, the Vespa is renowned for its elegant design and timeless style. Initially produced by Italian company Piaggio in 1946 to serve as affordable post-war transport, it quickly won hearts with its sleek “monocoque” frame and customisable features. From spare wheels and luggage racks to the mirrored flair of the British mod era, the Vespa became a canvas for personal expression.
The gallery’s scooter — a 1966 150cc Super model — has a rich history of its own. Adorned with chrome guards and wheel hubs, it once stood proudly in a Christchurch menswear store, promoting the Vespa Tie company for over 30 years. Visitors are often drawn to it, sharing fond memories and personal stories. This scooter is more than just a nostalgic prop — it reflects the gallery’s appreciation for quality, timeless design, and pieces that effortlessly blend vintage charm with contemporary appeal. It’s a perfect ambassador for what lies within Forfar Road Gallery’s doors.
