vespa resurrection
RESURRECTION:
the revitalisation or revival of something.
Coming back to life after death.
This is not restoration.
Vespa Resurrection is based on the idea of honouring the original life of a scooter.
Every scratch, every faded panel, every blemish carries part of its history. These marks are not mistakes to be erased. They are evidence of years ridden, roads travelled, and experiences lived.
Like the people who ride them, Vespas age. They change. They carry their story written across their body.
Resurrection respects that story.
This Vespa has been with its owner for more than fifty years. Now in his eighties, he had kept it running, riding, and part of daily life for decades. Resurrection is not about erasing that history. It is about returning the machine to the road while respecting the years already written into it.
Restoration
Restoration returns a Vespa to a like new condition.
The scooter is completely dismantled.
Old paint and primer are stripped back to bare metal.
Body panels are repaired and reshaped to original factory form.
Panel and paint work is carried out by specialist professionals.
Once painted, the Vespa is rebuilt using new mechanical and electrical components throughout.
The result is a Vespa that looks and feels brand new.
Completed Vespa restoration, showing corrected bodywork, period accurate paint finish, rebuilt mechanical components, and balanced proportions following full restoration by GN Classics.
Resurrection
Resurrection begins with assessment, not replacement.
If the original panels and paint are structurally sound and salvageable, Resurrection becomes an option.
Rust is treated and stabilised.
Paint is deep cleaned and preserved rather than replaced.
In some cases, layers of non original paint are carefully removed to uncover the original finish beneath.
This process is known as Vespa archaeology.
The Vespa then undergoes a complete mechanical and electrical reconditioning. This may include new suspension, wiring, cables, and a full engine overhaul.
Where appropriate, upgrades such as electronic ignition, reinforced suspension, or improved braking may be introduced to support modern riding conditions.
The outward appearance remains largely unchanged.
Only a trained eye will notice the difference.
The result is a reliable classic Vespa, capable of being ridden confidently in modern traffic, without losing its original character.
Vespa archaeology refers to the careful process of uncovering original paint and finishes beneath later, non original layers, without rewriting the scooter’s history.
It is a measured approach that preserves what can be saved, rather than replacing what can still speak.
Resurrection is not about perfection.
It is about preservation.
Rust and decay are halted.
Structural integrity is secured.
Mechanical life is restored.
But the story remains visible.
This work honours both the machine and the human connected to it. A Vespa that has lived carries meaning. Resurrection allows that meaning to continue, safely and respectfully.
Every Resurrection is different.
Each scooter is assessed on its own condition, history, and potential. Decisions are made deliberately, with care taken not to replace what does not need replacing.
This is patient work.
Measured work.
Hands on work.
It is not cosmetic.
It is not rushed.
Resurrection is for those who want to keep riding the Vespa they already know, recognise, and trust.
If this approach resonates, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss whether Resurrection is suitable for your scooter.
custom builds
Hand-built Vespa scooters, made to order
Every custom build starts with a conversation.
Some clients arrive with a clear idea already formed. Others bring a feeling, a reference, or a story. My role is to translate that vision onto a Vespa, shaping the stance, colour, components, and engine so the finished scooter feels intentional rather than decorative.
A request might be creative, like a Mad Max inspired Interceptor with the right edge, palette, and a motor that delivers real presence on the road. In those cases, the scooter becomes a rideable art piece, built to be seen, heard, and ridden.
Other builds are driven by purpose rather than aesthetics. Touring setups, long-distance reliability, or highly specific technical requirements demand a different kind of precision. These builds focus on balance, durability, and performance, without sacrificing character.
One of my highest-ranked custom builds was featured at Motorclassica (2021), displayed among some of the world’s most valuable classic and vintage vehicles.
Every custom build starts with a conversation.
Start a custom build.