Robin Lawton
I have been involved with Vintage and Classic cars since the mid-1960s when I acquired my first car – a Riley Monaco - at the age of 15. I entered the motor trade in 1968 with Wadhams Group, before moving onto University Motors in the 1970s. In 1982 I set up my own specialist Garage – Guildford Sports & Classic Cars - offering MG, Triumph TR and Austin Healey along with a range of quality pre-war cars.
For many years I was Head of the Classic & Historic Automobile Division of British Car Auctions, which included the consignment and sale of Vintage & Classic Cars from all over the UK & Europe, attracting marques such as Aston Martin, Lagonda, Bentley, MG, Riley, Alvis, Packard, Rolls-Royce. During my time with BCA, I organised in excess of 70 Auctions all over the UK and a number of sales at my favourite location – Brooklands Museum.
This lifetime of living and breathing Vintage and Classic cars has given me a wealth of experience and knowledge of sales, service and restoration. I have owned and restored a number of vintage and 1930s motor cars over the years, including Austin, Morris, MG and Riley. In addition I have an extensive network of contacts and collectors across the UK & Europe.
I am a long-standing enthusiast and active member of several clubs, including the VSCC, Riley Register, Bean Car Club, Midget & Sprite Club, MG Car Club and Austin Ten Drivers’ Club, of which I was President for over ten years.
Michelle Lawton
In June 2017, my wife, Michelle joined the business following a successful 25 year career in the City as a Headhunter for the FTSE 250. At first glance a very different background but she finds that placing exceptional talent requires very similar skills to researching and selling ancient automobiles! Her presence will be increasingly felt over the coming months as we work together to develop our business.
Michelle is also a great car enthusiast (well she had to be didn’t she?!) and has owned several MGs, TRs and driven and enjoyed many Classic and Vintage cars over the years. She might still be my apprentice after 30 years together, but she brings fresh insight and expertise to the business.
We believe our absolute passion for Vintage and Classic Cars coupled with our depth of experience will ensure you are given sound advice whether buying, selling or running an historic motor car.
This is me at age 14.
This is me with my 1935 Riley 9 Merlin in 1974.
1938 MG VA Tourer - a concours winner, which I previously owned and restored.