PROVENANCE
Patricia Bilicich, Watsonville, California (acquired new in 1967)
Akihiro Hane, Watsonville, California (acquired from the above in 1975)
Current Owner (acquired from the above in 2013)

EXHIBITED
2017 Hillsborough Concours d’Elegance, Hillsborough, California (First in Class)

THIS CAR
Designed and built in Britain and inspired by Jaguar’s Le Mans-winning D-Type, the E-Type was more popular in the US than any other market. This example, retaining its matching-numbers engine per an accompanying JDHT Certificate, is set apart by its well-documented California history and the superlative quality of the restoration work carried out by noted Jaguar specialist Steve Gordon.

Introduced in 1965, the updated 4.2-litre E-Type delivered improved torque over the previous 3.8-litre model and featured a new, all-synchromesh gearbox. The 4.2-litre cars also benefited from uprated brakes, more comfortable seats, and improved electrics. Chassis 1E13864 was sold new on January 17, 1967, by British Motors of Monterey and registered in California as “UGK 175.” Options specified included chrome wire wheels, bumper guards, whitewall tires, seat belts, a radio, and a side mirror.

By 1975, the Jaguar’s original owner, Patricia Bilicich, had sold it to a neighbor in the same small town of Watsonville, California. The new owner, Akihiro Hane, kept diligent records, noting mileage when he filled up with gas and topped off the oil, offering a rare, detailed insight into how the Jaguar was used into the 1980s.

In 2013, the consignor acquired the E-Type and immediately commissioned Steve Gordon of Vintage Autoworks in Emeryville, California, to complete a thorough and accurate show-quality restoration. Over more than 18 months, no expense was spared in bringing 1E13864 to concours-winning standard. The highly detailed restoration records and notations of work carried out reveal not just how correct this car was to start with, but also show the extraordinarily meticulous nature of the restoration. Where possible, original components were disassembled, cleaned, rebuilt, and repainted, thereby preserving a great deal of the car’s originality.

Resplendent in its original Opalescent Golden Sand color over a vibrant red leather interior, this Jaguar is particularly notable due to the extent of its documentation. This E-Type is accompanied by its original 1967 sales invoice, maintenance records, California registration cards, detailed service log, as well as thorough restoration records and receipts. Also included are many of the documents supplied in the original sale: the owner’s manual, the manufacturer’s warranty book, a maintenance chart and vouchers, and the overseas distribution booklet. In fact, 1E13864 retains not just its original California black plates, but even carries its original dealer license plate frame.

With its authenticity confirmed by a JDHT Certificate, 1E13864 is distinguished by a well-documented history and the recent outstanding restoration by a marque expert. Since completion, this beautiful E-Type has been shown just once, where it won its class, and as such offers a spectacular opportunity for any new keeper.