In the midst of a global pandemic that has forced many people to put their lives on hold, some have found solace in pursuing their passions. For Hodinkee founder and CEO Ben Clymer, that passion is vintage cars, and his latest project is the restoration of a 1968 Ferrari in Rome.
The restoration project started in early 2020 when Clymer flew to Rome to oversee the work on the car. He had purchased the vehicle in the United States and shipped it to Italy, where it was being restored by a team of experts. However, as the pandemic began to spread, it became clear that the project would face some unexpected challenges.
The restoration team had to follow strict health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus. This meant that progress on the project was slow and there were many delays. But despite the setbacks, Clymer was determined to see the project through to completion.
The 1968 Ferrari that Clymer is restoring is a classic vehicle with a rich history. The car, which was originally owned by a prominent Italian businessman, was built in limited numbers and is highly sought after by collectors. The restoration process has been a meticulous one, with every detail being carefully considered and executed.
One of the biggest challenges in restoring a classic car is finding the right parts. Many of the original parts are no longer in production, which means that they have to be sourced from specialist suppliers or custom-made. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but it is essential to ensuring that the car is restored to its original condition.
Clymer’s passion for vintage cars goes beyond just the aesthetics of the vehicles. He sees them as pieces of history that deserve to be preserved for future generations to enjoy. In an interview with Hodinkee, he said, “I really believe that the work we’re doing is important. We’re saving a piece of history, and that’s something that’s really meaningful to me.”
The restoration of the 1968 Ferrari is not just a personal passion project for Clymer. It is also an opportunity to showcase the importance of preserving classic cars and the skills of the craftsmen and women who restore them. The finished car will be a testament to the beauty and timeless appeal of vintage automobiles.
As the pandemic continues to disrupt lives and economies around the world, projects like Clymer’s restoration of the 1968 Ferrari serve as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance. Despite the challenges and setbacks, Clymer remains committed to seeing the project through to completion.
The restored Ferrari will undoubtedly be a thing of beauty, but it will also be a symbol of hope and resilience in difficult times. Clymer’s passion for vintage cars and his determination to see this project through is a testament to the human spirit and the enduring appeal of classic automobiles.
