Fifty years after the last Jaguar E-Type rolled off the production line, two exclusive commemorative Jaguar Classic E-Type Series I models have been crafted for a discerning and devoted client in Southeast Asia to pay tribute to this iconic sports car.
Each model incorporates references to key moments in the E-Type’s history, from sketches of its early development to the final Series III models. These two magnificent vehicles celebrate the style and sophistication of the original with exquisite new details, becoming prime examples of Jaguar Classic’s Works Bespoke creations.
The two commemorative Jaguar Classic E-Types bring the E-Type’s story full circle, drawing inspiration from the last 50 commemorative editions of 1974 and marking the final models to emerge from the Jaguar Classic workshop.
These commemorative Jaguar Classic E-Types perfectly capture the spirit of the E-Type, with exclusive handcrafted specifications that make each vehicle a true collector’s piece. Every interior and exterior detail has been meticulously considered by Jaguar Classic experts, including carefully crafted enhancements that have taken over 2,000 hours of work.
Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer of JLR, noted, “When creating the E-Type commemorative versions, the Jaguar Classic team faced the challenge of refining a design that was already close to perfection. As the original manufacturers of the E-Type, we are in a unique position to subtly integrate aesthetic and technical improvements that reflect decades of experience, skill, and passion. The result, with its unique specifications and collaboration with renowned jewellers Deakin & Francis, is akin to driving a machine made from precious metals.”
Timeless Craftsmanship with Unparalleled Finishes
Both commemorative Jaguar Classic E-Type vehicles are Drophead Coupés, each with unique specifications. One features a Signet Green exterior, while the other boasts Opal Black, both enhanced finishes inspired by the original 1974 palette.
The elegant exterior is complemented by a timeless interior featuring handwoven brown Bridge of Weir leather seats, crafted in the Jaguar Classic finishing workshop, with matching brown and black leather stitching and trim. This woven finish has a unique texture, never before offered by Jaguar Classic, blending traditional techniques and design inspiration with a contemporary aesthetic.
Personalised details adorn the interior, where the anodised aluminium centre console includes a truly unique engraving of an original sketch of the E-Type Series I, discovered in our archives. This sketch was displayed alongside the E-Type at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Additionally, the anodised aluminium centre console has become a hallmark of the E-Type models produced by Jaguar Classic.
Bespoke Jewellery
What truly sets the commemorative Jaguar Classic E-Type vehicles apart are the Deakin & Francis jewels that adorn the interior and exterior of each model. England’s oldest jeweller, Deakin & Francis, has been crafting works of art for seven generations, since its founding in 1786.
Through this collaboration between passionate artists, bringing together local industries, each commemorative version of the E-Type is embellished with mother-of-pearl details, distinctive solid silver, and 18-carat gold.
Like Jaguar Classic, these renowned jewellers are wholly dedicated to a longstanding tradition of craftsmanship, working locally to uphold exacting standards in the iconic “Jewellery Quarter” of nearby Birmingham.
At the front, the badge on the decorative bar features a silver guilloché finish with mother-of-pearl and an 18-carat gold Growler icon. At the rear, the badges are crafted in enamelled sterling silver.
Inside, the horn button on the steering wheel presents a silver finish with an 18-carat gold Growler emblem and mother-of-pearl detailing, while the sterling silver gear shift knob, with mother-of-pearl accents and an 18-carat gold Growler, creates a sumptuous tactile finish.
Henry Deakin, Managing Director of Deakin & Francis, stated, “At Deakin & Francis, we are immensely proud to announce this exciting collaboration with Jaguar Land Rover Classic, which brings together two of the UK’s most iconic heritage brands. This exclusive partnership reflects our shared passion for pushing the boundaries of design and craftsmanship. These vehicles integrate techniques perfected by Deakin & Francis that have never been seen in the automotive industry before, making these two extraordinary classics a blend of Deakin & Francis’s artistic skill and Jaguar Land Rover Classic’s esteemed craftsmanship.”
The refined details extend to the instrument panel, which features a silver-ridged finish with a distinctive silver bezel. Attention to detail is also evident in the key cover, which boasts a silver finish with mother-of-pearl and 18-carat gold accents.
Technical Specifications
Under the elegant bonnet of each commemorative E-Type model lies the renowned 3.8-litre engine, now featuring an electronic fuel injection system and Jaguar Classic’s five-speed manual gearbox. This design seamlessly combines everyday functionality with an optimal driving experience.
The vehicles have also been adapted to the 21st century with Jaguar Classic’s discreet Bluetooth radio and a heated windscreen, offering modern features without sacrificing any of the character and authenticity of an E-Type interior.
