{"id":8155,"date":"2024-08-02T17:00:42","date_gmt":"2024-08-02T16:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.design911.co.uk\/blog\/?p=8155"},"modified":"2025-06-18T08:24:58","modified_gmt":"2025-06-18T07:24:58","slug":"meet-a-1958-porsche-356-at-wheels-and-watches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.design911.co.uk\/blog\/meet-a-1958-porsche-356-at-wheels-and-watches\/","title":{"rendered":"Porsche People: Meet a 1958 Porsche 356 at Wheels and Watches"},"content":{"rendered":"

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

This isn\u2019t just any car; it is a piece of automotive history, lovingly cared for and driven by an enthusiast.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

This Porsche 356 is no Garage Queen<\/b><\/h2>\n

Despite its age, Jon ensures that the Porsche sees regular use, though he admits it\u2019s not his daily driver. \u201cI 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, <\/span>but I’m a little bit worried of other drivers to be driving it every day<\/span>,\u201d he explains.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThese cars benefit from being used,\u201d Jon says matter-of-factly, adding, \u201cIf they\u2019re left in storage, things dry up, seals go off, and they start leaking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThese cars were very competitive back in their day,\u201d Jon recalls. \u201cJim Clark raced a 356 at one point, and that car still exists.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dedication to Originality<\/b><\/h2>\n

One of the most striking aspects of Jon\u2019s 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe instrumentation, the glass, it\u2019s all original,\u201d Jon notes with pride. This dedication to maintaining the car\u2019s authenticity doesn\u2019t mean it has been spared from use.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On the contrary, it has only reassured Jon of its resilience over time. \u201cIt\u2019ll sit at 70 mph quite happily, though it\u2019s most comfortable at 60,\u201d John says, dispelling the myth that classic cars are impractical or slow.<\/span><\/p>\n

An Enduring Legacy With More To Come<\/b><\/h2>\n

Despite being a vintage piece, the Porsche 356 is surprisingly modern in its driving dynamics. \u201cThe gearbox is friendly,\u201d Jon says. \u201cIt\u2019s only a four-speed, but it\u2019s easy to use. The brakes are drum brakes all around, which requires a bit of adjustment in driving style, but they\u2019ve always been reliable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jon\u2019s experience highlights the car\u2019s versatility. Whether it\u2019s a leisurely cruise around scenic routes or a spirited run up a hill, the 356 can handle it. \u201cIt\u2019s a very usable car,\u201d he affirms, adding that he\u2019s got a cheeky friend who is \u201cvery disparaging about it because the wheels are kind of tucked in, so he calls it a jelly mould.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

But even these honest friends can\u2019t deny its charm and functionality.<\/span><\/p>\n

In fact, Jon has his sights set on further adventure across Europe. \u201cI\u2019d love to do the 356 European meet and maybe take it to Classic Le Mans,\u201d he muses. While there aren\u2019t any immediate plans, the idea of exploring the continent with his family in the beloved 356 is certainly on the horizon.<\/span><\/p>\n

An Artist\u2019s Touch<\/b><\/h2>\n

Adding another layer to the story is Jon\u2019s 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve done one big piece of this 356, which is in my garage,\u201d he shares, adding, \u201cI particularly love cars from the 50s and 60s because the designs are so fantastic.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

His passion for the elegant lines and timeless aesthetics of 1950s and 1960s cars is clear, both in his choice of vehicle and art.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Future of Classic Cars<\/b><\/h2>\n

As our conversation winds down, it\u2019s clear that Jon\u2019s relationship with his Porsche 356 is more than just owner and car. It\u2019s a bond forged through shared experiences and a mutual respect for what his car represents.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m very fortunate to have this,\u201d he concludes. \u201cIt\u2019s a beautiful car, and I wouldn\u2019t trade it for anything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the sun sets on another successful Wheels and Watches event, Jon\u2019s Porsche 356 remains a shining example of the timeless appeal of classic cars.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Watch the full interview with Jon below –<\/p>\n