The Porsche 356 represents the very beginnings of one of the world's most celebrated sports car manufacturers. First introduced in 1948 and initially constructed in Gmünd, Austria, the 356 was the first production car to bear the Porsche name. By 1950, production had moved to Zuffenhausen, Stuttgart, where Reutter began manufacturing the steel-bodied Coupés and Cabriolets that would establish Porsche's reputation for exceptional engineering and craftsmanship. These early cars were painstakingly hand-built, with each body requiring approximately 530 to 550 hours of labour and featured the distinctive two-piece split windscreen that would remain in production until 1952.

The example offered here is an exceptionally rare 1951 Porsche 356 Pre-A Split-Screen Coupé, completed in December of that year and finished in its original factory colour of 511 Light Grey. According to extensive historical research accompanying the car, just three Coupés were originally finished in this particular shade, all of which were exported to the United States. This example is believed to be the only surviving split-screen Porsche in 511 Light Grey, making it particularly significant amongst the approximately 260 split-screen 356s estimated to remain worldwide. Its elegant exterior is complemented by a beautifully appointed interior featuring blue cord upholstery, dark blue leather, a blue-grey headlining and blue square-weave carpeting.

Originally supplied through D'Ieteren Frères in Brussels, Belgium, in December 1952, the car received its first recorded service in January 1953 at 10,543 kilometres. By the early 1960s, it had found its way to California, where it was owned by William D. Bolle of Sierra Madre before passing to Harvey Hetland in November 1966. Remarkably, Harvey would retain the Porsche for the next 42 years, using it as his daily transport until 1987. During its early life, the car underwent various modifications, including the installation of a later engine and gearbox, updated instrumentation and several changes to its exterior appearance.

Following its retirement from regular use in 1987, the Porsche remained parked outside at Harvey's Californian home for more than two decades. Although the intense sunlight caused significant deterioration to the interior and rubber components, the dry climate helped preserve much of the original steel bodywork. Following Harvey's passing in 2008, the car was sold and subsequently acquired by a British enthusiast, who imported it to the United Kingdom in January 2009 with the intention of undertaking a comprehensive restoration to its original specification.

The extensive restoration began in February 2009 with renowned Porsche specialists Sportwagen, who were responsible for the painstaking metalwork and body restoration. The car was completely dismantled, stripped and carefully restored before being refinished in its original 511 Light Grey. In December 2010, the restored bodyshell was transferred to Maxted-Page & Prill for the mechanical assembly, interior restoration and final stages of the project. Importantly, the car was reunited with its original 1,286cc engine, which was rebuilt to 1,500cc specification, while a period Porsche Type 519 full-synchromesh gearbox was fitted to improve drivability. The interior was also meticulously recreated in its original combination of blue cord, dark blue leather and complementary carpeting.

Following more than five years of extensive work, the restoration was completed in September 2014, returning this exceptionally rare early Porsche to its former glory. The quality of the finished car was recognised at the 2015 Hedingham Castle Show, where it received the Vic Elford Prize and was awarded Best of Show. It has subsequently appeared at the Warren Concours and Heveningham Hall Concours in 2023, while also being regularly enjoyed on the roads around London during the summer months.

Accompanied by an extensive historical file documenting its ownership, original specification and restoration, this beautifully presented 356 represents a particularly special opportunity to acquire one of Porsche's earliest and most historically significant models. Its exceptionally rare factory colour, remarkable 42-year Californian ownership, original engine and meticulous restoration by two highly regarded British specialists make it an outstanding example of the iconic Pre-A Split-Screen Coupé. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.