Amidst the serene surroundings of Wheels and Watches, an event that epitomises the fusion of engineering and elegance, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jon about his remarkable journey with his Porsche 356.

This isn’t just any car; it is a piece of automotive history, lovingly cared for and driven by an enthusiast. 

Jon has owned his 1958 Porsche 356 for a decade, a span of time that has only deepened his affection for the iconic vehicle. Por he says smiling in a way that suggests the car has become a beloved member of his family. 

And indeed, it has. His three children adore it, and even the family dog has found a place on the parcel shelf during their adventures.

This Porsche 356 is no Garage Queen

Despite its age, Jon ensures that the Porsche sees regular use, though he admits it’s not his daily driver. “I use it quite a lot. I wouldn’t say it’s a daily driver. It’s kind of a little bit too, I wouldn’t say delicate, but I’m a little bit worried of other drivers to be driving it every day,” he explains. 

Yet, the car is far from idle. It has been to Goodwood, participated in the Cop Hill Climb, and has been a frequent attendee at various automotive meets. 

“These cars benefit from being used,” Jon says matter-of-factly, adding, “If they’re left in storage, things dry up, seals go off, and they start leaking.”

The Porsche 356 has a storied history in motorsport, from its early days with streamlined, spaceship-inspired designs to its competitive spirit at Le Mans. 

“These cars were very competitive back in their day,” Jon recalls. “Jim Clark raced a 356 at one point, and that car still exists.”

Dedication to Originality

One of the most striking aspects of Jon’s Porsche 356 is its originality. The car still has its original engine and gearbox, a rare combination in the world of classic cars. Apart from a repaint in Germany in 1999 and some tasteful upholstery updates, it remains the same as when it left the factory floor. 

“The instrumentation, the glass, it’s all original,” Jon notes with pride. This dedication to maintaining the car’s authenticity doesn’t mean it has been spared from use. 

On the contrary, it has only reassured Jon of its resilience over time. “It’ll sit at 70 mph quite happily, though it’s most comfortable at 60,” John says, dispelling the myth that classic cars are impractical or slow.

An Enduring Legacy With More To Come

Despite being a vintage piece, the Porsche 356 is surprisingly modern in its driving dynamics. “The gearbox is friendly,” Jon says. “It’s only a four-speed, but it’s easy to use. The brakes are drum brakes all around, which requires a bit of adjustment in driving style, but they’ve always been reliable.”

Jon’s experience highlights the car’s versatility. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise around scenic routes or a spirited run up a hill, the 356 can handle it. “It’s a very usable car,” he affirms, adding that he’s got a cheeky friend who is “very disparaging about it because the wheels are kind of tucked in, so he calls it a jelly mould.”

But even these honest friends can’t deny its charm and functionality.

In fact, Jon has his sights set on further adventure across Europe. “I’d love to do the 356 European meet and maybe take it to Classic Le Mans,” he muses. While there aren’t any immediate plans, the idea of exploring the continent with his family in the beloved 356 is certainly on the horizon.

An Artist’s Touch

Adding another layer to the story is Jon’s background as an automotive artist. His deep appreciation for classic car design is evident in his work, and his own 356 has been the subject of his artistic side. 

“I’ve done one big piece of this 356, which is in my garage,” he shares, adding, “I particularly love cars from the 50s and 60s because the designs are so fantastic.”

His passion for the elegant lines and timeless aesthetics of 1950s and 1960s cars is clear, both in his choice of vehicle and art.

The Future of Classic Cars

As our conversation winds down, it’s clear that Jon’s relationship with his Porsche 356 is more than just owner and car. It’s a bond forged through shared experiences and a mutual respect for what his car represents.

“I’m very fortunate to have this,” he concludes. “It’s a beautiful car, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Owners of classic cars everywhere can feel confident that their machines will continue to run as long as they can get the right parts, and that is where Design911 comes in. 

Our expertise and dedication have earned us respect in the automotive world as we continue to help drivers like Jon maintain their authenticity and performance. 

At Wheels and Watches, we meet many committed drivers who want to preserve the legacy of iconic vehicles like the Porsche 356. We meet them where they stand to help source rare parts and deliver first-rate services.

As the sun sets on another successful Wheels and Watches event, Jon’s Porsche 356 remains a shining example of the timeless appeal of classic cars. 

It reminds us that true passion for the best cars transcends eras and that you can continue to enjoy these masterpieces for generations with the right care and attention.

Watch the full interview with Jon below –