Q4-2023

The first few months of this project didn’t involve any tools or grease, just a lot of time behind the computer. I dove into old books and photos to figure out how to make this replica as true to the original as possible. I sketched out ideas, turned them into CAD models, and once I had a solid plan with proper drawings, I finally got to start building the junior car for real.

Q1 & Q2-2024

With the drawings as my reference, I began work on the chassis. Using a grinder, I cut out the contours and then welded the individual parts together. At the same time, I also started shaping the dashboard, crafting the steering wheel, Horseshoe radiator mold and assembling the shock absorbers. Step by step, the build started to take shape. In Q2, I began working on the first aluminium panels, starting with the so-called 'undertray', which I fitted with hand-formed louvres.

Q3 & Q4-2024

During these two quarters, I made significant progress. I also managed to find an English wheel through a second-hand website and finally added it to my workshop. Using it has been a highly educational experience, learning how the material responds to different techniques, evaluating what worked, and identifying what could be improved next time. The dashboard cowl was the first part I shaped using the English wheel. In addition, I began work on the radiator, the hinge for the ‘engine bay’ covers, the seats, the wheels and various other sheet metal components.

Q1-2025

This quarter, I continued working on various sheet metal components, including the ‘engine covers’. I also worked on the dashboard, which is made from 2 mm aluminium. Using a small wire brush, I created a swirl pattern on its surface. In addition, I started sketching the gauge faces for the dashboard instruments, which I plan to add at a later stage. The clock, or rather, the watch, is one I bought in 2014 as my first “real” watch. I think it fits the overall style of the car quite well! During this period of working with the English wheel, I decided not to paint the aluminium-parts once the junior car is finished. I really like the raw look of the material, even though it shows some minor imperfections, that’s what I appreciate the most.

Q2-2025

The Juniorcar is really starting to take shape, and I’m really enjoying the process. The tail section, the part I had been stressing about for months, is now completed, and I managed to pull it off! Since I currently don’t have a welding machine suitable for aluminium, I had to come up with an alternative solution. It’s not perfect, but it’s good enough.

I also crafted wooden parts for the ‘gear lever’ and the ‘oil pump’. The wood came from an old cutting board that my grandparents used for many years, which makes it extra special. I’ve also started working on the leather straps that go over the ‘engine cover’. It was my first time doing this, but I have to say it’s enjoyable work, and it instantly gives the juniorcar a completely different look.