1950 Land Rover Series One 80”

Nut and bolt restoration is a term we sometimes use rather glibly to describe smartly rebuilt classics, but it’s only when you meet a vehicle like this early Series One Land Rover that you truly remember what the phrase really means. Repatriated from Australia in 2016, the 80in truck was rebuilt by its present owner over a period of two and half to three years.

To the question, which parts were rebuilt, renovated or recommissioned, the answer is simply; all of it. By the way, he has form in this area, previously turning out a very smart Series Two Landy as well as other vehicles.

What will excite any classic vehicle or Land Rover purist about this example is not only the attention to detail, but also the rigorous adherence to original parts and (where possible) period practises in renovation.

Since, as the restorer/vendor admits, the enjoyment for him was the rebuilding of the truck, the Land Rover hasn’t really been driven since the restoration. So, in effect, the next owner reaps the full benefits of the work done.

Bronze green was ever a defining colour for Land Rover, and when it is applied as well as this, it’s not hard to see why. The paint finish is likely better than it was when it left the factory, with a consistently smooth finish across all of the panels. The slightly muted gloss suits the age of the vehicle perfectly and the lack of overspray on any components show that the vehicle was totally dismantled while being repainted. What you will not know without being told is that some metal in the lower wings had to be replaced (through a careful process of stitching and welding). The reworking is flawless, with only the factory-issue dimples to be seen in the otherwise very straight panel work. Bare alloy and cast parts show virtually no weathering and are in excellent order, as are the chrome headlight surrounds.

Of course, the Series One always had a Meccano set feel - big hinges, rudimentary shaping of the alloy, but this example boasts some decidedly neat panel gaps and a smart, upright stance.

Canvas components are of a standard comparable to the bodywork – in other words, as-new – with a new Canvas by Land Rover specialists Exmoor.

Since the inside of a Series One doesn’t really differ materially from the outside, what has already been said of the exterior applies to the cabin space too. I think it’s safe to say that the pedals, as they stand now, have never seen a pair of muddy boots. Looking around, one can assume that perishables such as mats are new, while all other components were renovated. Instruments are original and the seats were retrimmed by Exmoor (who did the hood). The Bakelite steering wheel was remoulded by the Birmingham firm who made the originals.

The floors are solid, as in the plinth on which the three seats sit. All the door catches work smoothly and, if you’re of a mind, the doors take off quite easily. That in itself is an indication of how the restoration was executed; the willingness of wing nuts, bolts, levers and panels to fasten, unfasten and separate – and be reconstructed and still look good. This Land Rover passes all those tests.

It’s in the engine bay and underneath the truck that you see (or can’t see) where the really meaty jobs of the rebuild took place. The very straight and corrosion-free chassis had two outriggers replaced with new (but period) pieces. It was then epoxy dipped before being repainted. Spring hangers and springs look sturdy and all the suspension and steering components – you can inspect everything – look immensely robust. Diffs and drive shafts are similarly sound and there are no signs of leaks or corrosion.

The engine is an essay in vintage vibe and authenticity – both it and the gearbox were rebuilt by well-known Lancashire Land Rover specialist, Steve Parker. All components are date stamped 1949/50 and any that have had to have been replaced, such as the starter motor are, naturally, from the period. The only exception is the fuel pump, which is new…but that component is essentially still in manufacture.

As is often the case, it’s the details which tell the real story of a vehicle’s renovation and upkeep. Take a look at rivet heads, copper pipes, wiring terminals, the screws retaining the lights, rubber mounts and the seals and junctions of hoses. All are clean (light lenses too) and oxidation-free. There are no grime-filled crevices, no matter how deep into the engine bay you delve.

For such a stunning and thorough restoration, there isn’t a lot of paperwork, but the owner does have a very comprehensive photographic record of the work – and can tell you exactly what was happening in each picture. (You’ll see him toiling away in more than a few).

Fascinatingly, there are also photocopies of the Australian (New South Wales) importer’s inventory, listing all the Land Rovers sold in ’49/50 – including this one of course. Details include chassis and engine numbers as well as details of the purchaser, in this case; Jack’s Garage.

Few things are as iconically British as a Land Rover. Coupled to that, in many minds the world over, the name and its trucks are the very definition of a 4x4. Add to that; this is one of the first of the whole breed – where it all started – in this case restored carefully and sympathetically to ‘as new’ condition – no more, and certainly no less. And surely its one of the most versatile specifications?

In terms of condition and authenticity, it’s pretty hard to find anything better, and with that in mind, we expect this example to command between £30,000 and £40,000. The only downside we can see is that with it being so nice, you might just want to keep it in the sitting room.

Viewing is always encouraged, within government guidelines of course. The car is located with our vendor in Southwell Notts, UK and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’