Background and Workshop Roots
Simon joined FC Azerbaijan in early 2017 after spending 9 years maintaining private collections near Silverstone. He does not just park cars; he manages their mechanical health. He understands that a 1992 Lamborghini Diablo perishes faster when standing still than when being driven. Simon focuses on the rubber components and fluid levels that often fail during long-term storage. His approach is built on workshop-grade discipline rather than just keeping the dust off the paintwork.
Managing the Bristol Facility
At our Queens Square location, Simon oversees a strict intake process for every vehicle. He spent 4 months refining our current stabilization protocol, which involves a 14-point checklist for every car. This includes checking tyre pressures every 11 days to prevent flat spots and monitoring our de-humidification system. We keep the facility at a steady 48% humidity. Simon uses calibrated sensors to ensure the air is dry enough to stop rust but not so dry that it cracks the interior leather or perishes the door seals.
Technical Standards and Factory Blueprints
Simon often refers to original factory blueprints to understand how specific 80s and 90s engines should be cycled. For example, last November he managed the storage prep for 3 Jaguar XJ220s. He knows these cars require specific oil-priming procedures if they haven't been started for more than 28 days. To be upfront, we aren't the cheapest storage option in Bristol, but Simon's meticulous nature is why 14 of our 17 long-term slots are currently filled by repeat clients who value mechanical integrity over a low price.
Global Parts and Preservation
Part of Simon's daily routine involves coordinating with our global parts network. If he notices a slight weep from a fuel line on a Ferrari F40 during a monthly inspection, he sources the period-correct replacement immediately. He believes supercars are built to last, but only if the person looking after them understands the original engineering. He recently completed a 3-day certification on modern fire suppression systems to ensure our workshop-grade safety standards remain current for high-value assets.
Simon's Personal Philosophy
Honestly, Simon is the most disciplined person in our team of 7. He doesn't believe in shortcuts or 'good enough' when it comes to the legends of the 90s. By the way, he also handles the logistics for cars being moved to exhibitions. He personally supervised the transport of 4 vehicles to a private show in Q2 2024, ensuring each car was strapped down using soft-loop ties that don't mar the suspension components. He treats every car like it is the only one in the room.