1962 Volkswagen Type 2 Devon Camper

Background

Since its 1950 debut, the Volkswagen Microbus has been a global design icon. While VW did not build official campers themselves, they licensed select independent coachbuilders. In the UK, the gold standard was the Devon Caravette. Handcrafted with polished oak by cabinet makers J. P. White in conjunction with Torquay-based VW dealer Lisburne Garages, these official conversions carried a full factory warranty and could be ordered directly through VW dealerships.

History

Purchased from Lisburne Garages by the Schroeder family in April 1962, this bus covered 24,950 miles on family holidays before being replaced by a bay window model in 1968. Instead of trading it in, the family dry-stored the split-window bus for over 20 years. In 1994, after a brief stint with a local enthusiast, it was acquired by VW club member Karl Tinsley.

Tinsley undertook a sympathetic recommissioning to factory-stock standards. Thanks to a protective layer of engine oil applied by the Schroeders, the underside was completely rust-free and required zero welding, though the exterior received a fresh repaint. The pristine, original interior was simply cleaned. In 2011, the current owner purchased the bus with just 26,618 miles on the clock. It has since been kept alongside a particularly outstanding and well-known collection of original Porsche sports cars and used sparingly for family days out.

Specifications and Condition

The bus retains its factory colour scheme and numbers-matching engine. The J.P. White interior is entirely original, featuring oak cabinetry, a dinette that converts into a bed, checkerboard flooring, a fold-down table, an Easicool cooler, and a Dudley camping stove. While the original cushions and curtains are safely preserved and included, replica replacements are currently fitted for peace of mind.