For Sale: The Iconic Oval enthusiasts have spoken about for years.

‘Lots of vehicles are bought. Lots of vehicles are restored.

But only a rare few are loved so deeply that they become legends within their community.’

This ‘53 Oval is not just a car—it is a cherished piece of Volkswagen heritage, shaped and preserved by one of the ‘Historic Volkswagen Club' most influential and respected members: John Maxwell.

John Maxwell was one of a kind when it came to his knowledge and passion of vintage Volkswagens and was a well loved member of the ‘Historic Volkswagen Club’. In a personal perspective written by the clubs chairman John has been described as a “Pillar of the Vintage Volkswagen Scene” and was always “prepared to make an effort to help people”. He had great influence within the club and had held the title of both Club Secretary and Club Parts and Restoration Officer. John helped organise club trips to major European shows, including Bad Camberg and Hessisch Oldendorf, proudly leading the convoy to Germany in this beautiful Oval, surrounded by fellow members who shared his passion. When organising these trips he was extremely inclusive as to who he would make arrangements for and if it was not for him the dining room at the hotel was always more full than it would have been if it hadn't been for John arranging the accommodation for the club. Unfortunately, John passed away at the end of 2019  and although its legendary former owner is no longer with us, his passion lives on in every curve and detail of this Beetle. This isn’t just a car moving to a new home, it's a legacy ready to be carried forward by someone who truly understands its story.

The oval was restored in the mid 90’s when in John's ownership and up until that point such a concours restoration was rarely if ever seen. This restoration earned the oval multiple trophies when it was completed and returned to shows. It was also featured in the “Classic Beetle - a VW Celebration” book where it appeared as the hero oval for 1953. Although the restoration was executed many years ago this oval has been truly well preserved and remains an immaculate example. It could easily be featured in a book of this calibre again even this many years down the line. 

The (L11) Pastel Green body colour paired with the beige interior complement each other beautifully, giving the car an authentically vintage feel in all the best ways. Being a ‘53 Model it has the much loved “heart” style taillights, semaphores and of course the stand out rear oval glass. This particular oval has a badge bar on the front bumper and the rare Hazet “Tourist” spare wheel toolkit both of these being popular accessories at the time. Powered by a 1200 engine and showing 28,518 miles (non-verified), it remains a wonderfully preserved and mechanically honest early Oval.

To those who have been VW mad in the last 30/40 years this oval should certainly be recognisable. At Resto-Haus HQ, we hold two full folders of photographs, paperwork, and memorabilia documenting its life, restoration, and appearances. It often sat in the infamous Historic Volkswagen Club circle at Stanford Hall. Here at Resto Haus we often go to Stanford Hall as a group and looking at old photos we have taken, this oval appears again and again and again. It has quickly become a favourite among the team here at Resto Haus, and with the number of incredible vehicles we’re fortunate enough to work with, that truly speaks volumes. We feel truly privileged to be part of this ovals journey and enabling it to continue its incredible legacy. Perhaps that next chapter begins with you.

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