The Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet driven by the British actor, James Mason, in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 film, North by Northwest , must have left a strong impression.

While the later 300 SE Cabriolet entered serial production in 1962, Mason was surely still keen on an open-topped Mercedes-Benz as he acquired this very car in 1966, apparently buying from the first owner.

The W128 that appeared on cinema screens around the world bore a striking resemblance to this W112, with its opulent styling that typified cabriolet design of the era, an inline-six engine, and similar exterior finish.

Though Mr Mason passed away in 1984, the Mercedes-Benz stayed with the family until 2016, retained near Fréjus and was used for occasional holidays in the south of France.

The consigning owner bought the 300 SE Cabriolet direct from the Mason family.

In its most recent ownership, the car shows signs of recommissioning work, notably the treatment of the wood around the dashboard, revival of the interi...