I've been getting some interest from the UK on some of my vintage Airstreams, so I've decided to import 2 of them to Europe.
Question is this- if you were looking for a caravan of this nature- would you think to go to Spain to see it and buy it? Is it too far for most people there in UK? I had some clients buy one that flew in, but they were also interested in flying to Florida before the caravan even left- very serious buyers and quite interested.
With Ryanair flying so inexpensively, I would think it to be a nice weekend trip, but just looking for some feedback- a bit leary of shipping them in and having trouble getting buyers down to see them.
I put them in Classifieds- a 1964 Bambi 2 and a 1950 Cruiser- 17' and 25' respectively. Both require work and restoration/customization, but are with solid frames and good bodies.
I can say that I love camping in Europe in mine- gets you into friendships and conversations that being an American would probably never happen. For some reason, people see an Airstream and usually start smiling! :) Thanks!
------------- Camping is the best activity for family unity- Vintage camping adds that special personality and touch of flair! Try it!
Hiya ClassicCaravan. Don't have any advice or suggestions re your thread, but just wanted you to know that I love the piccies in your gallery!
'Specially that two storey jobby! Excellent and for some reason, they all remind me of that old TV series with James Garner, The Rockford Files! He lived in what our friends across the pond call a 'trailer' but still thought of that when I looked at yours.
Hope someone will pop along soon with sensible posts!
My name's hippy chick and I am a ukcs addict......
did you see in this issue of the Caravan Club Magazine that Airstream are going to export their caravans over here next year, they will be made specifically for the UK market being narrower than normal for our roads
they will have some for the NEC show in February aparrently, I can't wait to have a look!
I have all old Airstreams, and firmly believe in the adage that "they don't build them like they used to..."
Unfortunately, AS has gone very heavy- a 22' from 1954 that I have weighs 3000 Lbs and a guy with a 2004 22' parked next to me in Daytona and his weighed 4300lbs and cost $50,000- I like the older construction and style much better- maybe its only me, but not impressed. Even the bodies are made from a different aluminum that can't be polished and has to stay at what we call "mill finish" and be clear coated every 3-5 years.
I'm not sure about this project- I hope it works but they are a huge conglomerate that owns a company that is riding a nice wave right now, which usually means make money and get it while you can in American English...:)
I am American, by the way... Thanks for nice words! Philip
------------- Camping is the best activity for family unity- Vintage camping adds that special personality and touch of flair! Try it!
did you see in this issue of the Caravan Club Magazine that Airstream are going to export their caravans over here next year, they will be made specifically for the UK market being narrower than normal for our roads
they will have some for the NEC show in February aparrently, I can't wait to have a look!
Rob
hi rob ,yes i read this to be fitted out in lancashire no less.well done lancashire.
------------- the only silly question is the one you do not ask.
Wow!!! Just seen your airstream jobbies on the Caravan show on SKY TV! They do look really appealing.
Only saw a tiny bit of one programme, (videoing four hours of the back to back episodes), and that was with a woman who had done total refurb on one that was previously owned by a celeb, (but she wasn't telling who it was....wonder if that Elvis throw was meant to be a clue-lol). She had done wonders with it and it was fabulous! Even though the presenter referred to it as an aluminium box on wheels! What a cheek?
Funny you say that about celebs- I have one that was repo'd from a dealer in Hollywood Cal, and the story came out after that she had taken a deposit for Brad Pitt on the caravan and had to explain and give it back. Its the Red and White Aeroflite in my pix, and that one I'll keep forever- totally the best of its era- 1947.
Was it a UK show? We have a bunch of shows on Airstreams and vintage caravans in the US now- its a cool thing there to have one, although I'm really in love with camping in Europe- the USA doesn't compare!
------------- Camping is the best activity for family unity- Vintage camping adds that special personality and touch of flair! Try it!
Fantastic pieces of kit. On the Caravan Show they used some huge fifties-style pick up to pull them. Heaven knows what the whole rig must have weighed!
I can't afford one at the moment, but a lotto win and I will have one like a shot.
They are the most beautiful caravans ever made and on my trips to the States I always seek out the Airstream owners and ask for a look around.
Love 'em.
------------- best cheers
Frank
Range Rover Vogue SE LPG TAZ
Quote: Originally posted by Frank Elson on 16/09/2005
I can't afford one at the moment, but a lotto win and I will have one like a shot. They are the most beautiful caravans ever made and on my trips to the States I always seek out the Airstream owners and ask for a look around.
Love 'em.
Thanks for reminding me of the lottery Frank! There's me all set for hours spent on ukcs today whilst hubby's out and before I have to nip up for today's hospital visiting to see me ole Dad when I've realized I haven't done it for tonight!
Bound to be my numbers coming up if I don't get it done eh?
If you are looking for a true vintage Airstream Caravan in the United States, then consider contacting us. We live in Ohio, 70 miles from the Airstream Factory in Jackson Center. We are true collectors. We own several caravans from several quality manufacturers. We actively camp and attend Rallies here in the States. Last year we sold a 1947 Zimmer art deco coach and a 1954 Silver Streak Clipper, among other caravans. Both were true "one of a kinds". We are constantly looking for and acquiring true vintage caravans that are complete and original here in the States. Most have only one family ownership. We currently are restoring a 1948 Spartanette. We also own two true vintage motorhomes; an award winning 1978 Silver Streak and a 1972 Revcon. What we offer is complete, original, and very reasonably priced, and truly vintage. Call Amy or Jim in Ohio at (937) 671-4557 if we can be of assistance!
------------- Amy & Jim & Baby Deva in Ohio U.S.A.
Collectors and active campers in the U.S.A. We own 1948 Spartanette & 1940's Kit, 1969 Barth 16', 1978 Silver Streak & 1972 Revcon motorhomes.
Thanks for your comments....
The patina, or finish, on this particular Airstream is close to original. The original finish was not brightly polished and highly reflective like you see with most "restored" Airstreams. It is a natural and soft reflection. This is accomplished by gentle acid washing and careful buffing. In the States, this costs about $150.00 U.S. dollars per linear foot. The checkerboard floor is new; personally I do not care for it and would prefer traditional linoleum or wood. The floor was professionally done. The numbers refer to Wally Byam Club membership; it is a identification number. There is an awning rail which runs full length on the curbside. A cloth awning attached and was anchored to the ground with stakes & poles. There are two fixed twin size berths between the kitchen and rear bath. All appliances are original. The original factory owners manuals and the original factory warranty card are included. The interior wood is all original birchwood. This is narrower than newer models and is approximately 26 linear feet long. The dry weight is around 4000 pounds. This beautiful example of true vintage Airstream quality is ready to camp in!
------------- Amy & Jim & Baby Deva in Ohio U.S.A.
Collectors and active campers in the U.S.A. We own 1948 Spartanette & 1940's Kit, 1969 Barth 16', 1978 Silver Streak & 1972 Revcon motorhomes.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.