1950 | Jaguar XK 120 OTS

• A rare and of superb quality Jaguar XK 120 Alloy, finished in its original color scheme

• One of the first 240 hand built XK 120’s with aluminium bodywork on wooden frames

• Today, the 1950 Jaguar XK120 Alloy is considered a holy grail among classic car collectors

• The restoration was carried out to the highest possible standards, with an unwavering focus on authenticity and originality by marque specialist Guy Broad

• For any enthusiast looking to take part in the Mille Miglia with a powerful, rare, beautifully restored Jaguar XK that truly stands out from the crowd and with a highly desirable, notably low starting number, this example offers a unique and unrepeatable opportunity

The Jaguar XK120 was unveiled at the 1948 London Motor Show and marked a major turning point for both Jaguar and the automotive industry.

Designed by Sir William Lyons, the XK120 was introduced as a testbed to showcase Jaguar’s new 3.4-liter XK inline-six engine, capable of producing 160 horsepower.

The “120” in its name referred to its top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), making it the fastest production car in the world at the time.

The long, flowing fenders and curvaceous bodywork combined with impressive performance to make the XK120 an instant icon.

It was initially offered as a two-seater roadster (Open Two-Seater or OTS) and later expanded to include Fixed Head Coupe (FHC)and Drophead Coupe (DHC) variants.

The 1950 Jaguar XK120 Alloy: One of the First Built

The earliest XK120s, produced from 1948 to early 1950, were built with hand-formed aluminum (alloy) bodies over ash wood frames, due to limited access to steel in post-war Britain.

These cars, often referred to as the XK120 Alloy, are extremely rare and just 242 examples were made.

These early alloy cars were mostly hand-built at Jaguar’s Foleshill factory in Coventry and are identifiable by unique features, including rear wheel spats, separate side lights, and Brooklands-style aero screens on some early examples.

Not just a beauty, the XK120 Alloy was also a formidable performer in motorsports.

It gained fame in competitions and rallies, including the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and numerous hill climbs.

Its combination of low weight, aerodynamic shape, and robust XK engine made it a formidable car for both road and track.

Today, the 1950 Jaguar XK120 Alloy is considered a holy grail among classic car collectors, celebrated for their rarity, history, and timeless design.

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

This outstanding left-hand drive example was originally delivered new to Canada through Thomas Plimley, a respected dealer known for exclusively handling British automobiles.

Its first owner was Nathaniel Bailey (1902–1978), a prominent figure in Canadian business history.

Mr. Bailey was the founder of the hugely successful White Spot restaurant chain and the inventor of the first-ever carhop tray, an innovation that helped define North American drive-in dining.

In recognition of his contributions, Vancouver’s beloved Nat Bailey Stadium proudly bears his name.

The Jaguar remained in Canada until 1988, when it was acquired by renowned Norwegian collector Dag Arne Skjærholt, who subsequently brought it back to Norway.

Mr. Skjærholt cherished the car for nearly two decades before entrusting it in 2006 to Jaguar specialist Guy Broad for a complete and meticulous restoration.

The restoration was carried out to the highest possible standards, with a focus on authenticity and originality.

Since then, the car has enjoyed widespread acclaim, appearing on Norwegian national television, in the country’s major newspapers, and in several prominent Jaguar XK publications, both national and international.

The Jaguar has been very scarcely used and is therefore in a just finished from restoration condition.

In 2025 the Jaguar successfully drove the Mille Miglia without having any major problems.

Accompanied by extensive documentation and a comprehensive set of restoration photographs, this superb example represents an exceptional opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

CONDITION EXTERIOR

The restoration was carried out by marque specialist and more important to mention, XK 120 alloy specialist Mr. Guy Broad to the highest possible standards, with an unwavering focus on authenticity and originality.

During the restoration the Jaguar was restored to it’s delivery specifications resulting in a superb finishing of black with a biscuit and red interior.

The panel fit is excellent, and the chrome detailing is in superb condition throughout, with every exterior element carefully refurbished or replaced as needed.

As you might know, the XK 120 Alloy shows quite some unique details/features which are different from the later XK 120. We have researched all these features and they are all present showing that this is 1 of the most original XK 120 Alloys available.

CONDITION INTERIOR

Inside, the cabin is equally impressive.

Trimmed in a rich Red and ‘Biscuit’, the interior has been beautifully restored to its original specification.

Again the specific XK 120 Alloy details are kept during the restoration such as the chrome seat frame.

The leather upholstery is soft and supple, showing minimal signs of use, and the carpets, door panels, and dashboard are all in outstanding condition.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

As for the driving experience, this Jaguar offers the ideal blend of power, agility, and elegance.

Having recently successfully participated in the 2025 Mille Miglia, the car is currently undergoing a thorough inspection in our workshop to ensure it is returned to perfect condition.

It remains an exceptional candidate for further participation in the Mille Miglia, one of the world’s most prestigious classic car events.

For any enthusiast looking to take part in the Mille Miglia with a powerful, rare, beautifully restored Jaguar XK that truly stands out from the crowd and with a highly desirable, notably low starting number, this example offers a unique and unrepeatable opportunity.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.