Jonathan Thomas 
Few names in automotive history evoke the same emotional response as Jaguar. Sleek, powerful, and unmistakably British, classic Jaguar cars represent an era of uncompromising craftsmanship, elegance, and engineering brilliance. From the curvaceous XK120 to the legendary E-Type and beyond, Jaguar has always stood for more than just transport — it has embodied style, performance, and prestige.
But as the decades roll on, these timeless machines require more than admiration. They demand preservation, knowledge, and expert hands to bring them back to life. And for years, one of the names synonymous with classic Jaguar restoration in the UK was WatJag.
The Rise and Fall of WatJag
WatJag built its reputation as a trusted name among Jaguar enthusiasts and collectors. For many years, they offered parts, restoration, and deep technical know-how that helped keep thousands of classic Jaguars on the road.
However, as is the case with many legacy businesses, time caught up. The once-vibrant workshop at Great Longstone began to fade. The facilities became outdated, parts harder to source, and the business less able to meet the standards of modern restoration demands. The heart was still there — but the environment and momentum had slowed. Eventually, the business closed its doors, leaving loyal customers and projects in limbo.
But legends don’t die — they evolve.
SportsClassics.co.uk – A New Chapter for Jaguar Restoration
Where WatJag’s story paused, Sports Classics UK picked up the narrative — and redefined it.
Sports Classics acquired the assets, parts, knowledge, and legacy of WatJag and breathed new life into it under a new name, in a new location, with a fresh vision. Gone is the old, tired workshop. In its place: a spacious, clean, and fully equipped facility where classic Jaguars are reborn.
This isn’t just a restoration shop. It’s a resurrection ground. It’s where forgotten XK150s are pulled from dusty barns and transformed into showroom stunners. Where E-Types stripped to bare metal emerge once more with every curve, panel, and line perfectly restored. Where enthusiasts’ dreams are taken seriously, treated with care, and realised with skill.
What We Offer
At Sports Classics UK, we specialise in:
- Full ground-up restorations for classic Jaguars and other British legends
- Engine and mechanical rebuilds to the highest standard
- Paintwork and body fabrication using both traditional and modern methods
- Interior restoration with period-correct or bespoke finishes
- Jaguar parts and spares, including rare and hard-to-find components
- Cars for sale, often undergoing final restoration or freshly completed
- Expert advice, whether you’re restoring, maintaining, or buying a Jaguar
And unlike the past, we now work in a clean, bright, fully modern facility designed for precision and progress — not survival.
A Legacy Continued — and Improved
This isn’t just a new name with old stock. We’ve taken the best of what WatJag was and paired it with the ambition and structure needed to meet today’s standards. The staff, the experience, and the knowledge base remain — but we’ve added investment, passion, and a facility built for quality, not compromise.
Our space is better. Our equipment is sharper. Our standards are higher.
And our passion? That’s unchanged.
Looking for a British Icon? Start Here
Classic Jaguars aren’t just cars. They’re history in motion. They deserve more than just repairs — they deserve restoration with integrity. And that’s what we deliver.
Whether you have an unfinished project, a barn find, or a dream of owning a British sports car, SportsClassics.co.uk is where it begins. We’ve got cars in the pipeline, others nearing completion, and more available soon for sale.
We’ve restored legends. We’ve saved projects others gave up on. And we’re just getting started.
Call Lance James Today
For advice, sales, restoration, or parts, speak directly with someone who understands your passion.
📞 Call Lance James on 07957 234 528
Let’s bring your Jaguar journey to life — with the skill, care, and dedication that only true specialists can offer.
