Helm Launches Exquisite Rhode Island Commission: A New Benchmark in Jaguar E-type Series 1 Restoration
Helm proudly unveils the third model in their exclusive series of 20 Jaguar E-type Series 1 cars: The Rhode Island Commission. Named in honour of its destined home with a US client in New England, this new E-type will debut at the prestigious Newport Concours. Here, Helm's superior craftsmanship and engineering excellence will dazzle an informed American audience.
Chedeen Battick, Helm founder, asserts, "The E-type is undeniably an automotive design icon. Yet, I've always believed its performance should be equally legendary. The Rhode Island Commission embodies our commitment to merging contemporary best practices in construction and engineering to deliver the ultimate E-type experience, tailored to modern expectations without compromise."
Helm has enhanced the driving experience by fortifying the chassis and engine frames and integrating a custom Ohlins suspension system alongside a newly designed hand-crafted air intake. The vehicle sports a striking metallic emerald green finish, achieved through advanced Electrophoretic body coating techniques, ensuring uniform thickness and enhanced corrosion resistance. Additional technological enhancements include front and rear parking aids and a comprehensive infotainment system featuring a seven-speaker Apple Airplay setup and hands-free Bluetooth connectivity.
In collaboration with Bill Amberg Studio, Helm introduces luxurious bespoke leather interiors, blending aniline European calf hide with calf suede in a rich Ochre, setting off the emerald green exterior. This design choice elevates the interior to match the exterior’s classic allure, replacing the original E-type's lacklustre plastic with a more sumptuous environment. "The original E-type's interior didn’t quite fulfil its promise. Our new design guarantees luxury that meet the exterior's iconic status," remarks Amberg. The Rhode Island Commission also features a custom luggage set, including two Bill Amberg Rocket bags and two Weekender bags, all secured with handmade leather straps.
Battick’s partnership with Amberg, a fervent classic car enthusiast, continues to flourish. They are driven by a shared passion for exemplary British craftsmanship, design, and engineering. Together, they balance luxury and subtlety, tradition and innovation, always focusing on meticulous detail and the skilled dedication of their team.
Helm is dedicated to preserving the E-type's artistic legacy while advancing its driving and building quality to the summit of modern luxury. Six decades since Malcolm Sayer introduced the E-type, advancements in technology and methods have allowed Helm to realise his vision entirely. This is the E-type as it was always meant to be.
A celebrated restoration expert with over a decade of experience in E-types, Chedeen Battick has devoted his life to achieving the pinnacle of E-type restoration. "My goal was to craft the ultimate E-type: respectful of its heritage yet enhancing its drive, build, and performance using the finest materials and British craftsmanship, coupled with the highest modern engineering standards. Each component is infused with love, care, and meticulous attention to detail," Battick explains.
