The sound of the engine reverberates through the narrow streets of Rome as Ben Clymer drives his 1968 Ferrari 330 GTC. The car’s sleek lines catch the attention of passersby, who stop to admire it. For Clymer, founder of the popular watch blog Hodinkee, the classic Ferrari represents a passion that extends beyond timepieces. The restoration of this iconic vehicle has been a labor of love, taking on new significance during the pandemic.
The idea of restoring a classic car had been on Clymer’s mind for years. In 2018, he finally found the perfect match: a 1968 Ferrari 330 GTC, in need of some tender loving care. The car was shipped from the United States to Italy, where Clymer and his team of experts began the process of restoring it to its former glory.
The project was not without its challenges, especially in the midst of the pandemic. “It definitely slowed things down,” Clymer tells me over the phone. “We had to pause the restoration for a while, but it gave us time to reflect and focus on the details.”
Clymer is no stranger to attention to detail. His background in luxury watchmaking has taught him the importance of precision and craftsmanship, qualities that translate well to car restoration. “There are a lot of parallels between watches and cars,” he explains. “Both are complex machines that require meticulous attention to detail. And both can be incredibly rewarding when done right.”
The restoration process was a collaborative effort, involving experts in various fields. The car’s engine, for example, was sent to a specialist in Modena, Italy, where it was meticulously rebuilt. The bodywork was entrusted to Carrozzeria Autosport, a renowned Italian coachbuilder. “It was important to work with the best people in the industry,” says Clymer. “These are craftsmen who take pride in their work, and it shows in the finished product.”
The finished product is indeed a sight to behold. The car’s Rosso Corsa paint glows in the sunlight, while the tan leather interior exudes elegance. But for Clymer, the real beauty lies in the car’s history. “This car has a story to tell,” he says. “It has lived a life, and we’re just a small part of its journey.”
The 330 GTC was produced by Ferrari from 1966 to 1968, with only 600 units made. The car was designed as a more luxurious alternative to the legendary 275 GTB, with features such as power windows, air conditioning, and a leather interior. Today, the 330 GTC is highly sought after by collectors, with prices ranging from $500,000 to over $1 million.
But for Clymer, the value of the car extends beyond its price tag. “It’s not about the money,” he says. “It’s about the experience. Driving this car through the streets of Rome, you feel connected to something greater than yourself. You feel a part of history.”
The pandemic has been a time of reflection for many, with people turning to hobbies and passions to find solace. For Clymer, the restoration of his Ferrari has been a welcome distraction. “It’s been a labor of love,” he says. “And it’s given me something to look forward to, even in the darkest of times.”
The restoration of the 1968 Ferrari 330 GTC is a testament to the enduring allure of classic cars. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, these timeless machines remind us of the beauty and craftsmanship of the past. And for enthusiasts like Ben Clymer, they offer a connection to a bygone era, a sense of history, and an appreciation for the finer things in life.
