LOT 131

1965 Jaguar E-Type Coupe Reimagined by Helm with Bill Amberg Studios Chassis no. 1E31723

Sold for US$285,500 inc. premium

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Lot 131

'The Rhode Island Commission'
1965 Jaguar E-Type Coupe

The Audrain Auction|3 October 2025, 16:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame

1965 Jaguar E-Type Coupe
Reimagined by Helm with Bill Amberg Studios
Chassis no. 1E31723

4.2-Liter Straight-Six Engine
Fuel Injection with 'Carburetor Style'
300bhp at 5,400 rpm
Tremec Five-Speed Manual Gearbox
Four-Wheel Vented Disc Brakes, Aluminum Calipers
Adjustable Öhlins Suspension with Poly Bushes Front and Rear

*Classic Series 1 FHC E-Type
*Rebuilt by Helm and Amberg in 2024
*Project costing $600,000 and 3,800 man-hours
*100 miles on rebuild
*Absolutely stunning in BRG over ochre leather
*Contemporary technology on collectible classic

THE CAR OFFERED

The Series 1 Fixed Head Coupé is possibly the most iconic of all the iterations of the E-Type Jaguar produced between 1961 and 1974. This example was originally built in 1965, and was the third in a series of 20 bespoke examples recreated by the acclaimed 'restomod' specialists at Helm Motorcars, in collaboration with renowned leather designer Bill Amberg. 'The Rhode Island Commission', named for the New England client who commissioned it, embodies the convergence of timeless aesthetics with modern refinement, executed to the highest possible standard.

The rebuilt was completed in 2024, a project that took 3,800 man-hours and cost nearly $600,000. Under the hood there is a 4.2-liter engine with a calibrated ECU and fuel injection, skillfully disguised as a carburetor set-up providing modern drivability with the visual purity of a classic E-Type engine bay. The stainless-steel exhaust is hand-polished while a high-efficiency radiator with uprated pumps, pipework and header tank, keep things cool. The transmission is a Tremec five-speed manual gearbox and aircraft-grade aluminum calipers on four-wheel vented discs rein in the power. The ride is uncharacteristically smooth for a 60s car, thanks to the adjustable Öhlins suspension. All this sits atop a reinforced chassis and engine frame.

The exterior is finished in 20-liters of metallic British Racing Green applied using electrophoretic body coating techniques for added corrosion resistance. The traditional chrome brightwork has been replaced with hand-polished nickel.

Moving inside, the cockpit is a bespoke masterpiece, with semi-aniline calf suede in ochre to contrast and complement the hand-crafted aluminum interior paneling and metallic BRG exterior. Speed sensitive electric power steering assures the driver an effortless drive, and all the plastic toggles are redressed in leather for aesthetic and tactile opulence. A heated windscreen, soft-close door mechanisms and seven-speaker audio system with Apple CarPlay, plus a reversing camera, complete the package.

Accompanying this Jaguar is a set of matching bespoke luggage, comprising two trademark Bill Amberg Rocket bags and two Weekender bags, held neatly in place with handmade leather straps. The set is executed with the same artisanal quality found in Amberg pieces held in the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Sixty years ago, Malcolm Sayer's design was acclaimed by Enzo Ferrari as the most beautiful car in the world, and today this commission with its improvements in technology and techniques melds classic with the contemporary to create the best of all worlds. As Chedeen Battick, founder of Helm, stated of this Jaguar "This is how an E-Type was meant to be."

The one and only 'Rhode Island Commission' presents a rare opportunity to own one of the most meticulously crafted and collectible E-Types in existence with just 100 miles on the rebuild; a rolling sculpture born from the collaboration of two design powerhouses.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium.
For MOTORCAR property the premium is 12% on the first $250,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $250,000.
For MOTORCYCLE property the premium is 15% on the first $100,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $100,000.
For AUTOMOBILIA or non motor vehicle property, the premium is 28% of the first $50,000 of the bid price, plus 27% of the amount of the bid price above $50,000 up to and including $1,000,000, plus 21% of the amount of the bid price above $1,000,000 up to and including $6,000,000, plus 14.5% of the amount of the bid price above $6,000,000.
A 3rd-party bidding platform fee equal to 4% of the Hammer Price shall be payable by buyers whose successful bid is submitted via 3rd-party bidding platforms, including Invaluable; Live Auctioneers; The Saleroom; Lot-tissimo.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
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Collection Notices
COLLECTION
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 4 and 5.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 3 - during the auction, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 4 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 5 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motor Vehicle lots. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Payment Notices
PAYMENT
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 4 and 5.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 3 - during the auction, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 4 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 5 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motor Vehicle lots. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Shipping Notices
Los Angeles & New York Auctions
If you have requested a shipping quote, we will send this to you via email within 5 business days of the auction ending.
Please note our shipping quotes are bespoke and require special care and handling from our team and shippers. Shipping will be booked after payment is received. Please allow 7-14 business days from the time of booking for packing and dispatch, depending on your chosen shipping method. If your purchase is time sensitive, or you wish to explore other options, please see our list of alternative third party shippers in New York and Los Angeles who may be able to assist you.
Oversized Lots
Please note that all lots marked with a W in the catalogue are oversized and subject to additional storage and shipping methods. All additional lots purchased with W lots are considered group lots and will be subject to the same terms as W lots.
W Lots will be transferred to offsite storage at DTD Fine Art Services at the buyer's risk and expense within five (5) business days following the auction. Please contact the Client Services team at [email protected] for the exact movement date.
The per-lot charges levied by DTD Fine Art Services are as follows (plus any applicable sales tax):
FURNITURE/LARGE OBJECTS
Transfer .................. $75
Daily storage........... $10
Insurance (on Hammer + Premium + tax) 0.3%
SMALL OBJECTS
Transfer ................. $37.50
Daily storage........... $5
Insurance (on Hammer + Premium + tax) 0.3%
Please note property is also subject to a Cross Dock Release Fee ($25 for Smalls and $45 for Furniture and Large Objects) & if charges are paid with a credit card, Door to Door Fine Art Services will charge a 3% Convenience Fee.
If you have any questions, please contact our Client Services team.
Boston & Marlborough Auctions
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