A visit to JB Classic Cars: from Facel Vega to a 1912 Oldsmobile

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Tucked away on a quiet farmstead in the Dutch countryside stands a modern warehouse. At first glance, there's nothing to suggest this is home to a specialist restoration workshop for classic cars—until we notice a discreet car trailer and a modest sign: JB Classic Cars. We’ve come to the right place.

That becomes clear the moment the door opens. We're greeted by a framed black-and-white photo of weary but proud mechanics in the Facel Vega factory. A fitting welcome, because behind that door lies a workshop filled with post-war classics: Facel Vegas, a Lamborghini, a stately Packard, and an AC Ace-Bristol with its engine proudly displayed up front.

Facel Vega is the marque that first put Jasper Beukenkamp on the map in the world of classic car restoration, and it's still well-represented here, but his passion has since grown. More and more, the team finds itself working on pre-war vehicles—a natural evolution, driven by client demand and the unique challenges these early automobiles present.

We walk further into the warehouse, past an engine bay where a Ford big block V8 is being rebuilt. On a nearby workbench, the AC Bristol’s gearbox lies disassembled. A mechanic whistles softly while working at the lathe. The atmosphere is relaxed yet focused: this is a place where craftsmanship is fuelled by both precision and joy.

Then, another door opens—and there it is: an imposing Cadillac V16 with a Fleetwood (4335) body. Beside it stands a rare Horch undergoing an engine transplant, and further down, a Packard is receiving a new clutch. Even the shock absorbers are reconditioned in-house—a testament to the workshop’s full-spectrum technical expertise.

At the heart of the shop is their oldest project: a 1912 Oldsmobile Defender, astonishingly original. One of the mechanics explains how, years ago, the owner had a new cylinder block cast, but the engine never quite ran right. Countless hours have been invested since, and now the car starts, drives, and shifts like new—or rather, like it did in 1912. The team is working closely with the owner to ensure he can soon return to the road with confidence and peace of mind.

It all started humbly. After an internship with a restorer, Jasper began working on his own in a small garage on his father-in-law’s property. His speciality was metalwork, and it was that skill that became his calling card. Word spread, the projects grew, and today, JB Classic Cars is a thriving team of five skilled mechanics. Jasper runs the business alongside his wife, Sandra, who handles all office, personnel and administrative work—so the team can focus entirely on the cars. As Jasper puts it, “A company like this is nothing without solid administration. Sandra is the linchpin.”

While metalwork remains one of their core strengths, JB Classic Cars has grown into a fully-fledged restoration and refurbishment company, and it shows. The workshop is spotless, well-organised, and efficient. The team wears crisp uniforms, tools are exactly where you expect them, and even the English wheels are tucked away in covers when not in use. Everything speaks of professionalism.

What sets this place apart isn’t just the quality of the restoration work—it’s the soul behind it. Every project, whether a Facel Vega or an early Oldsmobile, receives dedicated, personal attention. Jasper and his team combine technical mastery with deep passion for their craft—and you can feel it the moment you step through the door. The contrast with the wide, quiet Dutch fields couldn’t be more striking as we drive away.

JB Classic Cars is located in Bodegraven, the Netherlands. For more information, visit their website: https://jbclassiccars.com/

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