Driving Dreams: A Luxurious Journey with Singer Vehicle Design through the Swiss Alps
For many children raised in Western culture, the enchanting reassurance of “and they lived happily ever after” often invokes idyllic scenes amid the fairy-tale landscapes of Europe—a realm where alpine villages, nestled between lush, verdant mountains and crystalline waterfalls, paint a picture of joy.
Yet, for the budding automotive enthusiast, the dreamscape morphs, encompassing not just those serene vistas, but also the intoxicating thrill of exploring these picturesque heights in a personal dream machine—a Porsche 911. As the years unfold and passions mature, the idyllic vision becomes ever more refined; the ambition intensifies, longing perhaps for the symphonic elegance of a Porsche 911, artfully reimagined by the esteemed atelier of Singer Vehicle Design.
Indeed, this ethereal fantasy took form for a select cadre of devoted patrons last summer in the alpine embrace of Switzerland, where Singer orchestrated its inaugural multi-day retreat, a luxurious sanctuary for automotive aficionados.
Nestled within the storied folds of time and craftsmanship, Singer Vehicle Design has cultivated an ever-expanding fellowship of enthusiasts. Established in 2009 by Rob Dickinson—an artist and visionary whose talents extend beyond mere automotive pursuits to include a celebrated past as the frontman of the laudable ’90s band, Catherine Wheel—this renowned establishment seamlessly intertwines the artistry of the past with the engineering sophistication of the present. While not the originator of the restomod concept, Singer has risen to become its pinnacle, specializing in transforming the air-cooled 964 generation of Porsche’s iconic 911.
“What captivated me about Singer,” shares one enthusiastic patron, Grant Maunder, “was the individualistic, deeply personal nature of their creations. In the realm of Singer, one can pursue an astonishing level of customization, crafting a unique presence on the road—a delightful aspect of the experience.” This intimate relationship between patron and creator kindled the spirit of the opulent gathering in Adelboden, Switzerland, celebrated for its resplendent vistas and automotive heritage.
Hosting the illustrious gathering, Maunder’s own boutique haven, The Brecon, was the backbone of this sojourn, serving as both a welcoming base camp and an artistic refuge for discerning drivers. Over four days framed by awe-inspiring landscapes, participants reveled in two full days of driving, weaving through the stunning routes that adorned the Swiss Alps.
I was granted a glimpse into this world of magnificence, having just transitioned from the electrifying ambiance of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Upon arriving at a discreet storage enclave adjacent to his hotel, Maunder unveiled a collection of Singer-restored 911s, akin to an archeological treasure trove. The sight, both electrifying and humbling, echoed the sentiments of Howard Carter as he uncovered the glories of King Tut’s tomb—my heart raced with a palpable mix of awe and trepidation.
Every emotion intensified the moment I settled behind the wheel of a DLS, a singular embodiment of automotive artistry. This masterpiece, birthed from a collaboration amongst Singer, Williams Advanced Engineering, and an elite cadre of technical visionaries, boasts an extraordinary powerplant that reverberates with the pulse of the open road. With an inspiring 500 horsepower, each shift of the six-speed manual transmission engages the spirit of the driver, catalyzing a visceral connection that cultivates a symphony of sensation and thrill.
Ascending from the charming confines of Adelboden to the skyward Susten Pass—towering at a majestic 7,415 feet—the DLS emerges as an impeccable companion, effortlessly navigating the serpentine roads. The steering responds intuitively, exuding an elegant confidence, while the car’s design tantalizes with a sophisticated balance of weightlessness and presence. The experience feels akin to capturing a hummingbird, its vibrant essence flitting through the air, a blend of freedom and precision.
As we paused momentarily, Maunder encouraged me to embrace a vehicle transformed through Singer’s Classic services—a renowned offering that marries history with modernity. “The beauty lies in the understated elegance of the 911,” Maunder explains. “It transcends flamboyance, standing as a testament to refined engineering.”
The drive dynamics of this classic reveal a quiet assertiveness that showcases its magnificent craftsmanship—a luxurious daily driver, brimming with balanced poise and an exhilarating embrace of the open road.
Having seamlessly transitioned from the heights of Susten Pass, it was time to explore a 911 reimagined through Singer’s Classic Turbo services—an homage to Porsche’s inaugural turbocharged 911, the 930. Resplendent with a sophisticated carbon fiber body, the heart of this powerhouse beats with an enhanced Mezger flat-six engine, commandingly enhanced by twin turbochargers, exuding that tantalizing blend of past artistry and modern engineering.
In this landscape of sensory delight, the cut of the scenery reflects the intimacy shared between the vehicles and their owners—a bond woven through shared adventures and tales yet to be written. The Brecon resonates with the same spirit, a sanctuary merging classic charm with contemporary luxury. Its mid-century aesthetic captivates guests, evoking nostalgia while providing an embrace of comfort amidst the dramatic alpine backdrop.
The following dawn heralded a new adventure, a tranquil moment spent beside the heated pool, overlooking the breathtaking contours carved by nature and time. Moments later, I rendezvoused with Dickinson at the foot of Engstligen Falls, indulging in deeper conversations surrounding the artistry of Singer’s Classic services while witnessing firsthand a vehicle that passionately vies for attention against the enchanting topography.
As we meandered through idyllic farmland, riding shotgun in a Singer creation with Dickinson behind the wheel, it became undeniably evident that this automotive masterpiece parallels its creator—deliberate, understated, yet strikingly articulate in its details.
In the lush, convivial atmosphere of The Brecon’s elegant lounge, we engaged in spirited discussions surrounding this unique automotive odyssey—where patrons, many of whom count Dickinson as a friend, found joy in forging connections within the realm of bespoke craftsmanship. “The enthusiasm expressed by our clients led us to orchestrate this gathering,” Dickinson reflects, illuminating the profound camaraderie found among daring souls united by a passion for excellence.
This autumn, members of the Singer community will weave their personal narratives anew in the exquisite landscape of France—an enchanting experience not designed for fairy tales, yet one that promises a myriad of stories to share and a relentless sense of adventure.
In the world where luxury knows no bounds, every journey becomes a radiant tapestry of exquisite design, driving passion, and the beautiful embrace of camaraderie—proof that true bliss often lies in the stories we craft together.
Click here for more captivating glimpses of Singer-reimagined Porsche 911s navigating the majestic Swiss Alps.