The Rolex Goodwood Revival is a Time Capsule of Cool Cars and Dapper Looks

Isaac Taylor

If you’re a vintage racing enthusiast, then there’s only one place to be in September and that’s trackside alongside 150,000 other motoring and vintage enthusiasts from around the world.

You could describe The Revival as the most glamorous second-hand event. At its heart, it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and sustainability, from an age when possessions were made to last and be cherished. All the cars are original, having been lovingly maintained since new, many of the outfits have been handed down through generations, and even the retailers specialise in pre-owned artefacts – everything from clothes and accessories to automobilia and books.

Having raced in both the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy and the RAC TT Celebration, the 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion, Jenson Button says: “The Goodwood Revival is one of my favourite weekends of the year; it has become very international but it remains so quintessentially British. Racing cars from the 1940s, 50s and 60s, and dressing up from that era is so much fun. I also get to race against some of the best drivers in the world and catch up with friends – everyone is here to celebrate motor sport, it’s incredible.”

If you ever attend, make sure you’re sporting a Rolex, just to fit in. Three-time FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart has represented the brand from more than half a century. “Every year, the Revival raises its game and attracts more people who come to see these cherished cars. Rolex is very much part of the event; the quality, the attention to detail and integrity perfectly aligns with the Swiss watchmaker.”

“Goodwood always brings back fond memories for me, having first visited when I was just 14 years old, and since then I have spent many years at this historic track, where I am in fact still the lap record holder from 1966.” He reflected. Can’t help maybe at least a small brag. He’s earned it.