Paul Russell reflects on his remarkable career in classic car restoration, detailing challenges, accomplishments, and his dedication to craftsmanship.
Regarded as a titan in the classic car restoration industry, Paul Russell has shaped the field over five decades with his unparalleled craftsmanship and dedication to authenticity. As the founder of Paul Russell and Company, he has worked on some of the world's most rare and valuable automobiles, including the legendary Mercedes 300SL. Celebrated as the grand marshal for the 2026 Greenwich Concours, Russell recently shared insights into his life, career, and the restoration business with us.
Early Life and Influences
Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Russell grew up in a family steeped in a rich tradition of engineering and craftsmanship. His father, an accomplished engineer who rose through the ranks from a machine shop apprentice to head of engineering, significantly impacted Russell's formative years. The lessons learned during weekends spent repairing household items strengthened his appreciation for quality work. "If you’re not going to do the job right, don’t even start," was a mantra that echoed in his upbringing.
Discovering a Passion for Cars
Initially captivated by mechanics rather than automobiles, Russell’s fascination with cars was cemented during his high school years. A friend’s aeronautical engineer father introduced him to the joyous experience of driving in an Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite, which ignited his desire to get behind the wheel of a similar car. Russell eventually owned multiple classic vehicles, including Triumph TR3s and a 1962 Porsche 356 B coupe, the latter of which he sold for a profit during his transition into adulthood.
Transitioning to the Automotive World
After spending two and a half years at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Russell recognized that his true calling lay elsewhere and transferred to the University of Massachusetts Lowell to pursue engineering. However, his growing passion for cars led him to take a part-time apprenticeship at Kimball Foreign Auto, a shop specializing in foreign vehicles. Willie Kimball, the shop's owner and a well-trained Mercedes mechanic, provided Russell with personalized mentorship that accelerated his learning.
The Birth of Gullwing Service Company
In 1973, after gaining experience at several dealers, an intriguing employment ad caught Russell’s eye in the Boston Globe: a job at a local Mercedes restoration company owned by Alex Dearborn. This role allowed him to focus on the kind of detailed work he envisioned. Following five successful years, Dearborn decided to split his business and offered Russell and his colleagues the chance to buy the restoration side. With business partners Alex Finnegan and David Twitchell, they founded Gullwing Service Company in June 1978.
The First Restoration Project
It wasn't long before Russell and his team received their first official restoration commission: a Mercedes 300SL Gullwing. For the next decade, they continued to refine their craft, handling numerous restorations of iconic Mercedes models. However, after just five years, Russell recognized the need for improved control over the restoration process, leading to their move to a larger facility in Essex, Massachusetts, where they could manage every aspect in-house.
Building Relationships with Clients
A pivotal moment in Russell's career came when he connected with fashion mogul Ralph Lauren. Lauren's desire to restore a Gullwing led to an invitation to collaborate, marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership. Their work allowed Russell to branch out into non-Mercedes projects, including the restoration of a Bugatti T57 Atlantic. The intense project was completed in time for the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where it won first in class and later best of show. This success opened the door to further commissions from Lauren, solidifying Russell’s reputation in the automotive restoration world.
Challenges and Growth
Throughout his career, Russell has faced challenges, many of which stem from the complexities of running a craft-based business. Assembling a dedicated and passionate team was critical. He learned the importance of hiring individuals based on their enthusiasm and then training them in the necessary skills. Balancing high standards with the realities of client expectations has also been pivotal; the drive to maintain quality often requires saying “no” to projects that don't align with the company's values.
Relationships Beyond Cars
For Russell, automotive restoration is not merely about the vehicles but about forming lasting relationships with their owners. His philosophy emphasizes trust and transparency, underscoring how essential it is to follow through on commitments. This focus on communication and client dedication has been a cornerstone of his success.
Adapting to Economic Changes
The automotive industry has seen substantial economic shifts since Russell entered the field. When Gullwing Service Company launched, labor rates were a fraction of what they are today. The skyrocketing costs of parts and services have also forced shops to adjust their business models. Russell’s insight reflects a growing hesitance to turn down rare parts due to their ever-increasing value.
Giving Back to the Next Generation
Russell's engagement with education extends to McPherson College, the only institution in the U.S. offering a four-year automotive restoration degree. He serves on the advisory board and actively supports the program, employing several alumni in his shop. This mentorship reflects his belief in preserving craftsmanship through education and training.
Current Projects and Future Aspirations
As of now, Russell is immersed in restoring a one-off Vignale-bodied Ferrari 375 America, meant to debut at the Pebble Beach Concours. The anticipation surrounding this vehicle illustrates the continuing allure of classic cars and the significance of maintaining high standards in restoration work. Russell’s zeal for the cars that pass through his hands remains strong, evidenced by the pride he takes in their maintenance long after leaving his shop.
Preservation vs. Restoration
Russell believes that future trends will emphasize the preservation of original cars alongside restoration efforts. His experience has underscored the value of understanding both disciplines. By consulting with preservation experts, he strives to create historically accurate restorations that maintain the authenticity of classic vehicles.
Engaging the Younger Generation
In discussing the future of the automotive hobby, Russell has observed a common misconception that younger individuals lack interest in hands-on mechanics. Citing McPherson College's enthusiastic students, he argues that the key issue lies in the willingness of experienced tradespeople to take on mentorship roles. It’s crucial for older professionals to invest time and resources into training the next generation, ensuring the continuity of the craft.
As Russell prepares to be recognized at the 2026 Greenwich Concours, his legacy is firmly established not just through his awards but through the passion and dedication he has instilled in a community that values craftsmanship and heritage. With over 50 "Best of Show" awards to his name, it’s clear that the pursuit of excellence in automotive restoration is a journey rather than a destination—one that Russell continues to navigate with enthusiasm and expertise.
As he looks toward the future, his commitment remains unwavering: to produce restorations that not only honor the legacy of each car but also cultivate a love of classic automobiles in new enthusiasts.
