Quarterly Newsletter Volume 79

1964 Jaguar E-Type FHC

A Classic Showcase restoration in process, soon to be available!

About the Jaguar and its restoration

We are thrilled to share an in-depth look at one of our premier restorations—a 1964 Jaguar XKE Fixed Head Coupe now approaching final completion. This exceptional California car was a rare find: a numbers-matching example with excellent original bones, making it an ideal candidate for a no-expense-spared, concours-level restoration.

Adding to its unique provenance, this Jaguar carries both its original factory data plate and a seldom-seen “J/64” stamped tag—an identifier issued by the California DMV in 1964 for vehicles first registered in the state during that period. Backed by its Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate, this E-Type is being restored in its factory-original color combination of Opalescent Silver Grey with a Red interior. Once finished, it will stand as one of the finest Series I E-Types available, ready for concours display, private collection, or discerning investment acquisition.

Body & Paint

The restoration began with a complete disassembly of the car’s body and structure. Every component was carefully catalogued, and the body was stripped to bare metal. From there, our expert craftsmen meticulously metal-finished and leaded each body panel to achieve flawless fit, contour, and symmetry—restoring the iconic shape of the E-Type to its original glory. Each chrome trim piece and body component was individually hand-fitted to ensure perfect alignment prior to painting. 

The multi-stage paint process—comprising primer, base coat, and clear coat—was completed with color sanding and polishing to produce a deep, mirror-like finish that highlights every curve of this timeless design. The engine frames, suspension, and undercarriage were refinished in correct factory finishes, providing a level of detail that meets or exceeds original specifications.

Upholstery

Inside the XKE, our Master Trimmer has undertaken a full restoration of the E-Type’s luxurious interior, preserving the essence of its original craftsmanship while elevating it to concours standards. The seats, door panels, and trim have been reupholstered in correct Red leather sourced to match factory specifications—not only in color, but also in texture and stitching style. Custom-formed seat cushions ensure both aesthetic accuracy and modern comfort, offering an ideal balance of period-correct appearance and driving pleasure. Carpets have been custom cut, edge-bound, and installed using materials that replicate the original weave and tone. 

The headliner and interior panels were also painstakingly refitted using correct materials and techniques. Instruments and switches were professionally rebuilt and refinished to full working order, maintaining their vintage charm while offering modern reliability. Attention to detail extends to the finishing elements—steering wheel restoration, interior brightwork polishing, and subtle trim adjustments—all of which contribute to an interior environment that is both true to its 1964 roots and breathtaking in presentation.

Mechanical Parts & Assembly

Mechanically, this E-Type has undergone a comprehensive rebuild to factory-original standards. The numbers-matching engine, gearbox, and driveline were completely disassembled, rebuilt, and restored in-house by our expert technicians. All supporting systems—including brakes, cooling, clutch, electrical, and hydraulics—have been rebuilt to concours accuracy. New Old Stock (NOS) components were used wherever available to preserve authenticity. 

All rubber components, seals, grommets, and bushings throughout the car were replaced to ensure long-term performance and reliability. The electrical system was fully restored with a correct cloth-bound wiring harness, while hardware across the car was replated or replaced with proper cadmium- or zinc-coated fasteners—reflecting factory-correct finishes down to the smallest details.

Assembly

With final assembly now well underway, the E-Type is coming together in stunning form. Each component—body, drivetrain, suspension, and interior—is being carefully installed and tested to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. Once assembly is complete, the car will undergo a rigorous shakedown and quality control process to confirm it meets concours-level standards in every respect. Accompanying the finished vehicle will be an MP4 video documenting the restoration journey—offering collectors, enthusiasts, and future caretakers a detailed glimpse into the craftsmanship and precision that have gone into this world-class project.