Jeeves and the Jaguar

To own a Jaguar is an experience.  I mean that in every sense of the word.  It's exhilarating, inspiring, and visceral.  It's also frustrating without warning, expensive where you'd least expect it, and anxiety inducing.  There are very few things I enjoy owning as much.

Today marks the one year anniversary since I bought my 1999 Jaguar XJ8, a beautiful saloon in British racing green.  From the high gloss burled walnut dash to the stoic leaper that graces the hood, the iconic styling of the XJ brand is nothing short of breathtaking.  Instantly recognizable, the car conjures up images of elegance and sophistication with that heavy handed old world charm still intact.  However, this Jag is also quick to shed its snobbery with the slightest push of the accelerator. 

I've really never felt anything quite like what I feel when I drive it.  In so many ways it's the best of both worlds, a car for fun, speed, and cockiness and yet still the ideal selection for the lost joy of a leisurely Sunday drive.  

At the age of 26, finally making some decent money, the idea of owning a Jaguar was attractive but not entirely realistic.  Sometimes that's just the thing to get your gears spinning though.  After researching the XJ8 and giving myself a crash course in the flaws and weaknesses of not only this specific vehicle, but of owning a premium luxury car altogether, I felt prepared.  I found an XJ8 online that had originally spurred my interest about 3 hours away from where I live.

On the Monday I went to the bank and applied for a line of credit.  On Tuesday not only was I approved, but an XJ8 in the exact same colour and range popped up locally online.  Wednesday I responded to the private listing and took a test drive that night.  And finally, on Thursday, June 10, 2010 I purchased my new ride.  The process couldn't have been more succinct or well timed.  Now here we are.  

Jeeves and the Jaguar is my answer to all of the excitement, passion, and headaches that my car has given me.  Like a doting butler who graciously serves his master, it seems I'm often playing the role of the butler.  Hence, Jeeves.

As a filmmaker, photographer, and editor I suppose you could say that I've found a muse. From searching out my vehicle in pop culture to teaching myself basic maintenance and restoration, my relationship with my Jaguar XJ8 is much more than shallow brand recognition, it truly is an appreciation for the history and tactile joy of driving an automobile that makes me happy.

With this new site I hope to create diverse and entertaining content that highlights everything from the practical tips and hands on experience that I've picked up on - to random Jaguar history, factoids, photo galleries, videos, and most importantly, my personal stories surrounding my day to day adventures behind the wheel of my '99 Jaguar XJ8.  

Sir William Lyons, one of the founders of Jaguar Cars Limited, is famously quoted as saying, "the car is the closest thing we will ever create to something that is alive". I plan on doing my part to make you believe that.  

Pin It