Paid Partnership with WHS

A few weeks ago during my time in Zurich, I had the great opportunity to stop by and take some photos at Walter Historische Sportwagen. It was a real pleasure to take pictures there and witness how they work: everything in order and the neatness of the place is impressive. I had the opportunity to photograph several Ferraris from completed projects individually, which was part of their clientele. In every detail, especially the interiors, you can see the quality and the refined finishes of their work. During my stay there, I had an excellent talk with Patrice, the founder of this place, with whom I did a little interview: 

Patrice, when and what inspired you to start Walter Historische Sportwagen?

I started working on Ferraris in 1989, right after I came back from the USA, where I lived for 2 years. I was always dreaming of my own business, inspired by my childhood growing up in a car workshop and dreaming of a Formula 1 driver career, and when I realized that did not happen, I fulfilled my dream working as a gearbox mechanic in the Formula 1. Was close enough to my dream and a key to being my own boss in the future! I started it in January 2012.

Why focus specifically on Ferraris?

Because I know them best, working 8 years at Edi Wyss Engineering straight and then many years later another 2 years, intending to buy his business, which did not happen. So I founded my own business! Ferrari is a passion, as my whole life is, passion.

What is the philosophy of WHS while repairing and restoring a Ferrari?

It is a privilege for us to work with this type of cars. We are as authentic as possible, in any kind. We appreciate the trust our customers give us and the craftsmanship we can offer them. Being transparent and honest is one of the most important keys to our understanding, and of course, serving our customers.

What was the first car you completely restored at WHS?

 A Ferrari 250GT Pininfarina Coupe Serie I, restored from scratch to bottom!

 Can you tell me some of the most memorable cars you have found in your years at WHS? What was your favorite project?

Definitely the Ferrari 250 Mille Miglia. It is my most favorite Ferrari. I don’t have a favorite project, I love them all and I see all completed projects as our favorites!

What is your current restoration project? 

 A Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona Convertible, one of 127 built.

 My favorite was also the Daytona, such a sexy car, tell us a little about this car!

This Daytona was one of the last imported to Switzerland, and I worked on that car in 1990! Which is amazing, we still have them here and the customer is a good family friend and we love to keep this beautiful and very original Daytona!

 What is the most beautiful thing Ferrari has designed in your opinion? 

For sure the 312P. The whole story of the arising and development of this car is incredible and one of a kind. The silhouette and height of a 312P are unique, for sure!

No other car was so low and perfect shaped but it didn’t help at all. The car was not reliable enough to win against the opponents.

Tell us the story of this piece from 312P. 

That piece of «metal» is displayed in honor of my friend and employee Salvatore Guccione, who died way too early in 2014. He was a major part in the restoration of one of two 312P, which still remains in a collection.

 Any other dream car?

Oh yes, there are many I also like Alfa Romeo a lot! To have a 1965 GTA and race with it, would be a real dream. In general, the cars built in the ’60s, are real artworks!

 What car do you drive on a daily basis and why? 

 Alfa Romeo 156/166 and a Bertone 1300GT Junior, because I love them!

Do you have a quote related to cars that you would like to share? 

Drive on, pure passion and excitement.

Follow Walter Historische Sportwagen on Instagram: @cuoresportivo12

To learn more about his project: https://www.whs-service.ch/Service.html