The ‘Rhode Island Commission’

Restoration specialist Helm is committed to building 20 exacting restorations of the Series 1 Jaguar E-type, regularly cited as one of the most beautiful automotive designs of all time. Following the first car, which was created in close collaboration with Bill Amberg Studio, the Buckinghamshire-based company has now completed the second example.

Dubbed the ‘Rhode Island Commission,’ this fabulously rich creation combines the dynamite silhouette of the Series 1 E-Type FHC (fixed-head coupé), perhaps the purest and most elegant of all the various types of E-Type Jaguar built between 1961 and 1974.

Helm’s workshops set about restoring the bodywork and mechanicals, adding fresh strengthening to the chassis and engine frames, as well as new suspension components for better handling and finishing it all with skills and techniques that go way beyond what was possible in the Sixties. There’s also an Apple AirPlay audio system with seven speakers.

The interior is trimmed in ochre-coloured bespoke semi aniline cow hide and calf suede leather, paired with hand-crafted aluminium panels. On top of this, there is a luggage set consisting of two Bill Amberg Rocket bags and two Weekender bags, fastened into position with handmade leather straps.

Photos Courtesy of Helm

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