About

Bristol’s Automotive Specialists is proudly owned and operated by David Wilkens, a craftsman whose passion for restoration runs deep — from fine furniture to world-class automobiles.

David’s journey began with a love of woodwork, earning A+ grades in his senior years at college. Although his father was a mechanic, David found his own way into craftsmanship — and at just 17, he set out to find an apprenticeship in furniture making.

After driving from workshop to workshop, he eventually stumbled upon Jeal Upholstery near the Pauatahanui Inlet. He was offered a chance to prove himself — and four years later, he was still there. Working under Terry Jeal, a true English tradesman, David learned the art of traditional furniture restoration. When Terry retired, he encouraged David to start his own business — and at 22, Dave’s Upholstery was born.

While running his own upholstery business, David also completed a three-year night course in panel beating at Wellington Polytechnic, gaining skills in metal finishing and welding that would later shape his automotive work. Over time, more and more clients came to him for vintage car interiors, and eventually for full restoration work. The natural next step was to establish a dedicated car restoration business alongside the upholstery workshop — and so, Bristols Restoration Specialists was formed.

In 2001, Neale joined the team to help restore cars, and together they’ve built a reputation for excellence over the past two decades. With more than 50 years of experience across upholstery and restoration, David has always held himself to the highest standards — a commitment reflected in Bristol’s award-winning results.

Among the proudest achievements are 1st place wins at Motorclassica in Melbourne and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in the USA, as well as the 2025 Supreme Winner at the Ayrburn Classic for a 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith — all etched in time as examples of world-class restoration.

In 2024, the business was honoured with a commission from Government House to restore and recover a set of 36 King Edward chairs from 1915 — a testament to the craftsmanship and reputation Bristol’s has earned.

Today, David remains as passionate as ever about his craft. Proud of what’s been achieved and excited for what’s ahead, he continues to lead a close-knit team who share the same dedication to quality, authenticity, and care. At Bristols, every project is personal — and every vehicle tells a story worth preserving.