Jaguar - XK 120 OTS - 1952

This Jaguar XK 120 OTS is a roadster in left-hand drive with steel wheels and fender spats. It was delivered to Belgium in 1952 and completely restored between 2016 and 2019. The pastel green paintwork and red interior harmonize perfectly, and the engine and technology provide outstanding driving pleasure, as demonstrated at events (Solitude Revival, club runs, etc.). The car has an H registration and is ready to drive. Currently there are no defects and no action required.

History
According to the Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate, this early model was produced on April 4, 1952 and delivered on April 22 by the importer Belgian Motor Company to industrialist Jaques Bekaert. The Belgian license plate was 3FK81. The XK, as a continental car, was a left-hand drive with a 240 km/h speedometer. In 1964, the car fanatic Roger Meulemann showcased the Jaguar on the roof of his BP gas station for promotional purposes, now painted green. In 1965 Mme. Mariette Mouton in Bruges, Belgium, acquired the XK and stored it for over 50 years. The history is fully documented.

Restoration
The extensive restoration work was carried out after my purchase from 2015 to 2019. The focus was always on originality (supported by information from Urs Schmid and Jaguar XK 120 explored) and on quality in both workmanship and replacement parts—where necessary. After complete dismantling with careful documentation, specialists and experts were engaged:
DT Classic in Atherstone, England, overhauled the body and chassis.
The engine, transmission, differential, axles, steering gear, and all other mechanical components were worked on by EAE in Königswusterhausen. The defective original cylinder head was replaced with a homologous unit, pistons were renewed in the engine, the front crankshaft seal was converted to a shaft seal, the steering gear gear on the steering column was renewed, etc. The water pump was overhauled with a new bearing.
Deviating from the original color “Red,” the flawless finish was done in the rare original Jaguar color “Pastel Green.”
At Aldridge in Wolverhampton, an “Old Red” interior was chosen. The originally biscuit-colored seating was replaced with bucket seats for better side support and more space. In this context, a battery box for a larger 12-volt battery was prepared and automatic seat belts were installed for both seats. The convertible top and side screens (gray) were renewed,
Electrical components, including all instruments, were technically and optically overhauled. The cotton-wrapped wiring loom was renewed, keeping positive polarity on the chassis.
Independently, with the help of numerous firms such as SNG and Coventry Auto Components, various parts (lighting— with yellow LED turn signals integrated into sidelamps and rear lights from 4Sight—, brakes, aluminum fuel tank, VA exhaust system, radiator with new grid, wheels, tires, and other wear parts) were ordered or overhauled, completing the car once more. As a result, by August 2019 a nearly flawless XK with an H-plate could be registered.

Technical condition
The 3.4-litre inline-six engine starts and runs perfectly, now complemented by an electronic ignition distributor “123” and an electric auxiliary fan (manual/auto). The original Moss gearbox shifts as it should. Steering and brakes, including the drums, are in impeccable condition. The electrical system is fully functional and meets requirements (hazard lights, front amber indicators). The last service (engine oil/filter, brake fluid, cooling liquid, etc.) was performed in spring 2026. Current mileage since restoration is 8,532 km.

Body/Exterior
The body is free of damage and rust; the paint in “Pastel Green” still looks nearly new. The doors close perfectly, all gaps are convincing. The chrome is new or has beautiful patina, and the mirrors are in classic racing design. The convertible top and side screens (gray) are new and almost unused, as is the additional red tonneau cover.

Interior
The interior features red leather and red carpets, carefully and authentically finished. A contemporary red leather steering wheel is installed. The instruments are visually impeccable and fully functional— including the clock. All switches, as well as heating and ventilation, work. There is also a USB port for 12 V minus ground for accessories. Two three-point automatic belts are installed.

Chassis/Undercarriage
The frame has been measured, is free of rust, and preserved. The renewed wooden floors are in very good condition; fuel and brake lines as good as new. The exhaust system remains VA-type in near-new condition. The exhaust pipe ends laterally as factory. The rear leaf shocks have been overhauled and are fully functional. The leaf springs are protected with leather sleeves. Upgrading to radial Michelin Pilot-X tires improved handling (tread depth 2–6 mm) and they are newly balanced.

Documentation/Parts/Location
The Jaguar is supplied with the following documents:
- German registration papers
- Current main inspection under § 29 StVZO “without any defects”
- Oldtimer appraisal under § 23 StVZO
- JDHT manufacturer certificate
- ClassicData appraisal 2019 with overall condition “1”
- extensive photo documentation and restoration invoices
Tool kit including jack and pump are included
Original cylinder head with matching serial number (defective), overhauled distributor, original seats, and black original steering wheel are part of the auction.
The car is located in Burgdorf near Hannover, Germany. Test drive welcome.

Conclusion
Here you don’t just get an absolute showpiece with full history, but a true early continental Jaguar XK 120 OTS with spats and steel wheels and all the features that connoisseurs value: “studless” cylinder head, constant-current generator, extra mass on the electrical system, mounted chrome side lamps, early grille with “fluted vanes,” correct cotton-wrapped wiring loom, functioning torsion shock absorbers, trunk and hood supports in the correct color as well as black paint in the engine bay, under the hood, and on the trunk lid, exhaust tailpipe exiting sidewise as at the factory, largely original new black-plated “Bees” screws, etc. The vehicle is Mille Miglia eligible and welcome at all events.