Take a closer peek at entrepreneur Branko Kavcic's prized Stutz Blackhawk car and other items relating to Elvis Presley on which he's spent thousands
Brado Precision founder and president and Elvis Presley memorabilia collector Branko Kavcic, right, with Elvis impersonator and friend Tony Grova
The crown jewel of Branko Kavcic’s Elvis Presley collection: the first prototype of the 1969 Stutz Blackhawk. The singer, a dedicated car collector, wanted to buy the original off the lot, but it wasn’t then for sale. Instead, Mr. Presley purchased the model’s second prototype, becoming the first person to own the Blackhawk and forever linking the car to his name. Mr. Kavcic made an impulse purchase of the original at a 2004 auction.
Branko Kavcic drives his Stutz Blackhawk through the gates of Graceland.
One of Branko Kavcic’s prized possessions: a $4,000 replica of Elvis Presley’s signature TCB ring, here perched on a figurine of the famed singer and actor. TCB is an abbreviation of the “Taking Care of Business” motto that the star adopted. Mr. Kavcic splurged on a 14-karat gold version made from the original mold.
A $2,800 studded belt picked up at an Elvis festival was made by B & K Enterprises Costume Co. Inc., which supplied the legendary performer with some of his most memorable stage accessories. Here, the belt sits among other Elvis Presley memorabilia.
Branko Kavcic with some of the items making up his collection that fills two rooms of his home.
The $2,800 studded belt sits among other Elvis Presley memorabilia, left. The items that are part of Branko Kavcic’s Elvis Presley memorabilia collection range from books, records, CDs, posters, figurines and musical instruments to commemorative wines, plates and coins.
More items from Branko Kavcic’s Elvis memorabilia collection.
Elvis-style guitars are among the collection.
Another view of the Elvis Presley memorabilia contained in Branko Kavcic’s collection.
Driving the Stutz Blackhawk at an Elvis festival parade. In the passenger seat is former actress Suzanna Leigh, who co-starred with Elvis Presley in the 1966 musical comedy Paradise, Hawaiian Style.
Branko Kavcic, right, stands with former Elvis bodyguard Sonny West outside Graceland.
Branko Kavcic, left, with Elvis Presley’s former personal barber, Larry Geller.
Branko Kavcic with a child Elvis impersonator. Behind them, with hood open, is Mr. Kavcic’s Stutz Blackhawk.