1993 Jaguar XJ-S V12 'Monaco' Convertible by PBB Design (Paul Bailey)

• One of an estimated 11 Monaco conversions built
• Possibly the last Monaco completed
• Matching chassis and engine numbers
• 380bhp V12 engine
• Four-speed automatic transmission
• With the current Belgian collector since 2018

The Jaguar XJ-S was introduced in 1975 as the successor to the celebrated E-Type. Conceived as a sophisticated high-speed grand tourer, it combined Jaguar's smooth and powerful V12 engine with long-distance refinement and unmistakable British elegance. During the early 1990s, the XJ-S provided the basis for one of the most ambitious and exclusive Jaguar conversions of the period.

The XJ-S Monaco was created by engineer and designer Paul Bailey, whose Bristol-based company, PBB Design, developed a dramatically restyled interpretation of Jaguar's V12 Grand Tourer. Bailey had gained experience in the engineering and specialist-vehicle industry, including work on bespoke Range Rover and Rolls-Royce projects, before establishing PBB Design in 1987.

The Monaco was conceived as a much more sporting and imposing XJ-S, with extensively redesigned coachwork, wider bodywork, distinctive front and rear styling, bespoke wheels and exceptionally wide tyres. The development process involved the creation of a full-scale model, allowing Bailey to refine the proportions and the way light fell across the car's sculpted surfaces. The finished design was sufficiently distinctive to stand apart from the standard Jaguar while retaining the fundamental refinement and effortless performance of the XJ-S.

Depending on the customers' requirements, PBB Design could also incorporate significant mechanical upgrades. These included enhanced braking systems, revised suspension, upgraded engine management, and larger-capacity V12 engines. Some cars were fitted with engines prepared by AJ6 Engineering, while individual specifications could vary considerably from one example to another.

Production was undertaken in extremely limited numbers. Contemporary and later sources generally refer to a total of approximately 11 cars, including both coupés and convertibles, built by 2001 when the project folded, although the exact number remains the subject of discussion. The Monaco therefore ranks among the rarest and most unusual interpretations of the Jaguar XJ-S.

This 1993 Jaguar XJ-S V12 Convertible, chassis number 'SAJJNAFS4ER190061', is understood to be one of the very few Monaco conversions produced by PBB Design and may be the final example completed. The car is reported to have been built in 1993 and has remained in the hands of the same Belgian collector since 2018.

This Monaco Convertible combines the imposing wide-body styling of the PBB design with the effortless performance of Jaguar's V12-powered open Grand Tourer. Its distinctive appearance, bespoke detailing and rarity make it immediately recognisable, while the electrically operated convertible hood - which closes perfectly and lowers quickly with a simple press of a button - adds an additional degree of exclusivity and enjoyment.

This Monaco's specification is understood to include a 6.0-litre V12 engine prepared by AJ6 Engineering, developing approximately 380bhp, together with upgraded Jaguar Sport ventilated disc brakes and a four-speed automatic transmission. These details should be read in conjunction with the accompanying documentation, as PBB Design built its cars to individual customer requirements and specifications.

Retained by the Belgian collector for many years, this exceptionally rare PBB Design Monaco represents a fascinating opportunity to acquire a highly individual piece of British automotive design history. With its status as possibly the final Monaco produced, limited production, distinctive styling and long-term ownership, it is a car of considerable interest to collectors of unusual coachbuilt and specialist Jaguars.