Investigation, Research & Authentication

An Aston Martin, like a piece of fine art, does not always have a full or clear history. But history can be of compelling interest or vital importance or both. We can investigate history and attempt to fill in the ‘gaps’ so that the car’s life story is as complete as possible.

CASE STUDY • DB4 Convertible

The car was complete and appeared to have been well cared for. But by whom and when? The investigation led to conversations with all but the first owner who had the car until 1964. Dealers who handled the car were also spoken with and written supportive evidence was found to complete the story of the car. This was of great importance to the owner who now knows exactly what happened to the car throughout its life.

CASE STUDY • DB4GT

A DB4GT appeared to have an incorrect engine. Detailed study of engine build records enabled us to show that the engine was not only correct but was also a period factory upgrade. For a DB4GT this information signified not only peace of mind for the owner but also a difference in value of six figures.

Authentication

 Though to the casual observer it may seem improbable, some car’s identity or aspects of it may be unclear. A car may have been destroyed and ‘re-created’ or partially so. Or a car’s engine may appear to mismatch the car’s original in some way. Careful scouring of records provides clarity to be established in almost all cases. 

Examination and Reporting

Pre-purchase inspections are carried out by AMI. This covers every aspect of a car’s true value; not just its condition. Mechanical, structural, electrical, interior trim, glass, chrome and cosmetic elements are all assessed, measured and tested where possible and reported upon.

In addition, the car’s history, authenticity, originality and suitability as a car that meets the prospective purchaser’s expectations and aspirations. 

Astons can also be inspected at any time to assess these aforementioned elements because many owners seek to restore their cars at some point. But full restorations can harm the value as well as costing an unnecessary amount of money. AMI provides advice on what is best for the car and the owner based on how the car presents and what the owner’s hopes are.

Testimonials

Stephen inspected my newly acquired DB MKIII.  He spent several hours pouring over the car, which I then bought. His work was thorough and the report clear and succinct.  He found all the cars foibles, as a detailed and subsequent review of the cars history later exposed. Friendly, accessible, expert and exhaustive….. that’s how I’d describe Stephen. Very good advice and insight.  Thanks!

No other name came into my head when the need arose for an expert eye to provide an appraisal on a 1959 Aston Martin MKIII DHC.  A couple of texts, a phone call and he and I were on a mission and he a few days later, on an aeroplane heading for New York to work his meticulous magic. 

Amongst many others no doubt, I count myself most fortunate that someone like Stephen, with his vast experience acquired ‘hands on with type’ not only exists but also offers a service to conduct a pre-purchase, comprehensive and thorough vehicle inspection, with an associated full and detailed report.  I feel profoundly indebted to him for providing me with the assurance, that what I was hoping was going to become my dream investment in Aston Martin history, was indeed a sound investment.