The entire crowd who attended the 1961 Geneva Motor Show seemed to have a similar opinion. The automobile that was just unveiled was a leap beyond the automobile industry. It was more than just a vehicle. It was an work of art.
The introduction of the Jaguar E-type has been a source of legend with stories of journalists who tripping over one another to experience the thrill for themselves and one car’s last-minute overnight trip to Coventry to Switzerland became a legend (Jaguar had only taken one car to Geneva. In recognition of the demand they ordered another model to drive through the night. The journey took the enthralling 11 hours with an average speed of 68mph). The E-Type revolutionized car design, Enzo Ferrari reportedly referring to the roadster as “the most gorgeous car you can find.”
The year of the anniversary celebration of the classic British sports car. thanks to specialist restorers and insurers such as Footman James and the London-based Classic Investments, new generations of car enthusiasts are discovering the enjoyment of owning a classic goes much beyond the possibility of financial reward. Sure, huge gains in recent years have made classic cars such as the E-type a viable bankable asset, but restoring, owning , and driving an old car gives you the kind of satisfaction which isn’t available from investing in shares and stocks.
“It’s the act of giving a particular vehicle a chance to be rehabilitated” claims Agris Alksnis, the founder of Classic Investments, who advises clients to invest with their hearts and their heads. “Not every vehicle is worthy of a second chance, but those we restore are the best of the time that was marked by elegance, flawless design, and amazing stories. It is possible to revive these treasures out of the wreckage.”
Classic Investments renovates vintage cars to concours-quality through its workshop located in London. The team within the company comprised of craftsmen, including experts in welding and bodywork traditional panel beaters, coach trimmers, paint experts mechanics, chemists and electricians – are at work on every bolt and nut performing all restoration tasks along with subtle modernization. Restoration work is done on site, which includes re-chroming, upholstery and restoration of seats as well as interior trim.
Recently, Classic Investments renovated a 1966 Jaguar E-type. It is one of the only right-hand-drive Series 1 4.2 coupes ever constructed. The car was purchased brand new by an U.S. army sergeant serving in West Germany, it was destroyed in 1968, and later stored – which means that the 24,555 miles recorded on the odometer are amazing precise. Following Classic Investments’ work, this car is one of the finest E-Types ever built.
“This vehicle was the most important time-capsule,” says Alksnis. “It was preserved to the point that it contained a variety of components and parts which typically are replaced, disintegrated or simply not present after everyday driving. We pay close attention to the smallest details to restore the car back to its original vintage concours quality it’s important to have a complete set of components. There are a lot of parts that you won’t be able to purchase again Once they’re gone, the items are gone.”
“The Jaguar E-type is a popular model that is always in demand, and it’s rightly so . It’s even among our top 10 the most insured cars,” explains David Bond the Managing Director of Footman James. “It holds a special place in the hearts of a lot of enthusiasts and we can tell from our conversations with our customers the dedication of their owners.”
Did You Know? Revival Autos are a leading restoration company.
“The industry of the E-type will remain steady and reliable, but for some , its true importance may have been lost in the last few years. But, we’re witnessing an increase in interest and events like the 60th anniversary the famous debut have helped to remind and reinforce its status as a classic.”
The exterior is finished in contemporary opalescent gunmetal grey, and Red, Italian and leather-lined interiors, this restored car through Classic Investments manages that difficult job of being both modern and stylish while remaining true to the original design by William Heynes, then-Head of Design at Jaguar. “This is among only six designs of cars recognized as such by New York City Museum of Modern Art as an ongoing addition to their collections,” says Agris. “You shouldn’t be abrasive when working with these vehicles as even small errors can make the final product way off the limit.”
Alongside the restoration of old cars, Classic Investments also manufactures custom luggage that is designed to fit the vehicles it works on. Utilizing traditional methods and materials to make trunks that are enclosed or mounted The company designs contemporary designs or items that look identical to the original trunks they’re based.
“It’s an issue of offering an individual touchpoint that lets you appreciate and anticipate the car before you get in it,” says Agris. “Pack the case for a weekend trip and you’re already planning the trip ahead. The cars we drive are designed for use, and not placed in an air-filled bubble. So where’s the fun in this? Sure, you’re making money, but has anyone says you shouldn’t enjoy yourself simultaneously?”
Footman James offers a wide range of iconic car owners, ranging from beautiful motorbikes, to multi-car collections worth millions of pounds and everything between. This allows it to customize its services for clients wanting to invest substantial amounts in vintage vehicles, such as the E-type. “We make sure that our services are in line with the requirements of the client, however, we also have a Private Clients team specialises in creating insurance packages that are tailored to luxurious vehicles, collection of vehicles as well as homes that are worth a lot of money,” explains Bond.
“We currently cover PS1.3bn through the Private Clients team by itself, and every Private Client is assigned a personal account manager who is able to handle any issues during the life of a policy. Our passion is for classic cars and we are satisfied to make sure that the pride and joy of a person is well-protected with us.”