Finch Restorations — Rare Footage & Clips
Finch Restorations, a stalwart of the Australian automotive scene, has been meticulously crafting some of the world's most iconic vehicles for over five decades. Founded by Ray Finch in 1964, this esteemed car restoration company has earned its reputation as a master of precision and dedication to excellence. Based in Mount Barker, South Australia, Finch Restorations boasts an impressive portfolio that showcases their expertise in rebuilding and restoring some of the most revered cars of all time.
One notable example of their craftsmanship is evident in the 1939 SS100 Jaguar replicas they build. These meticulously crafted vehicles are a testament to the company's attention to detail and commitment to authenticity. A clip from our archives shows one such replica being unveiled at a classic car show, with enthusiasts and collectors alike marveling at its sleek design and precision engineering. The way the sunlight catches the curves of the SS100's bodywork is nothing short of breathtaking, and it's clear that Finch Restorations has poured their heart and soul into every aspect of this build.
Finch Restorations' expertise extends beyond mere restoration, however. They also specialize in building replicas of some of the most coveted cars in history – including the 1959 Ferrari Testa Rossa. This sleek and powerful machine is an engineering marvel, with its distinctive pointed nose and swooping lines making it a standout on any road or track. A clip from our archives shows a Finch Restorations-built Testa Rossa being put through its paces at a high-speed test track, its V12 engine roaring as it devours the asphalt.
But what's truly remarkable about Finch Restorations is their dedication to preserving the art of traditional craftsmanship in an era where mass-produced cars dominate the market. In an age where computer-aided design and automation have become the norm, Finch Restorations remains committed to the old-school methods that have made them a legend in their field. Their attention to detail, their passion for perfection, and their unwavering commitment to authenticity are qualities that set them apart from the rest.
It's worth noting that while Finch Restorations may not be directly associated with any notable music events or figures, their work has likely been appreciated by many enthusiasts who share a passion for both cars and music. After all, there's something about the thrill of the open road, the rush of adrenaline as you push your car to its limits, that can't help but evoke the same sense of excitement and freedom found in the world of music.
One might even argue that Finch Restorations' dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship is not unlike the efforts of a skilled musician who seeks to honor their musical heritage while pushing the boundaries of innovation. Just as a master luthier (stringed instrument maker) must balance tradition with creativity, so too does Finch Restorations walk this fine line between staying true to the original designs and incorporating modern techniques to create something truly exceptional.
The company's headquarters in Mount Barker is home to four facilities, each one dedicated to a specific aspect of their work. The main building houses the design and engineering teams, where they meticulously plan and prepare each new project. Next door lies the fabrication shop, where skilled craftsmen bring the designs to life using traditional techniques such as hand-stripping and polishing. The paintshop is another adjacent facility, where expert technicians apply the finest coats of paint to create a finish that's nothing short of showroom quality.
The Finch Powerhouse, located in nearby Woodside, serves as the company's maintenance hub. Here, skilled mechanics perform routine maintenance on customer cars, as well as more complex tasks such as engine rebuilds and tuning. This facility is also where Finch Restorations' team of experts fine-tunes their replicas to ensure they meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.
Finch Restorations' commitment to excellence has earned them a reputation that extends far beyond Australia's borders. Their work has been featured in numerous publications, including car enthusiast magazines and even some prominent automotive websites. A quick scan through our archives reveals a number of articles and reviews featuring Finch Restorations' creations, each one showcasing the company's dedication to precision engineering and attention to detail.
One such article from our archives highlights the company's efforts to recreate an exact replica of the 1959 Ferrari Testa Rossa. The author notes that Finch Restorations spent countless hours researching and studying the original car, pouring over photographs and technical documents to ensure every aspect of their build was accurate down to the smallest detail. The result is a vehicle that not only looks like the real thing but also drives with the same level of precision and power.
As one delves deeper into Finch Restorations' story, it becomes clear that this company's success is built on more than just technical expertise – it's about passion, dedication, and a genuine love for the art of car restoration. Ray Finch's vision, which began in 1964, has been carried forward by successive generations of skilled craftsmen who share his commitment to excellence.
In an era where mass-produced cars dominate the market, Finch Restorations stands as a beacon of hope for those who cherish traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their work is not just about building cars – it's about preserving a piece of automotive history, one meticulously crafted vehicle at a time.
Curated from public records and music databases.
