Arkonik 1989 SW-ARK727 Land Rover Defender

There are certain workshops which we’re always gravitating towards here at The Coolector and, it’s fair to say, Arkonik are chief amongst them. This is due to the fact there aren’t any doing better builds out there right now and a real case in point for this fact is this awesome looking 1989 SW-ARK727 Land Rover Defender from Arkonik. It is designed by former Bugatti Designer Etienne Salomé and this is his take on the classic Land Rover ‘Beach Cruiser’. For Etienne, less is more and his design cues complement the classic V8 and manual transmission perfectly.

The Arkonik 1989 SW-ARK727 Land Rover Defender has a price tag of $240k and it is definitely one of the most striking and accomplished builds to date from the UK based workshop and for anyone with a love of minimalistic design, this one will be right up your street as well from the muted colourway right through to the understated interiors. Progress has never been to make things more complicated, this special vehicle project represents the pure essence of the Defender and it is clear that Salomé has a real love of these iconic British vehicles which shines through in the finished build.

Breathtaking Attention to Detail

Arkonik are invariably in a league of their own when it comes to restoring Land Rover Defenders but by enlisting the help of Etienne Salomé, they have really excelled themselves on this occasion. The end result is a majestic looking machine which leaves jaws on the floor with its classy exterior and luxurious interiors. For the interiors, the differences are subtle yet clean and distinguished. With no exterior door handles or fuel filler cap, this Beach Cruiser is a unique build, number one of just five being built by Arkonik.

Resplendent in one of the most effortlessly cool colourways you’re likely to encounter – namely, classic Pennine Grey – this has been offset with satin black steel wheels that add a touch of visual gravitas to proceedings and ensure that this amazing looking Defender will turn heads everywhere that it goes. A unique front grille sports headlights housing internal indicators, contributing to a design aesthetic that denote this Land Rover as something truly special to drive or admire.

The purposeful interior of this Arkonik 1989 SW-ARK727 Land Rover Defender pays homage to Land Rovers of yesteryear and does so with some considerable aplomb. With three abreast in the cabin, occupants can experience back-to-basics motoring in its purest and most enjoyable form. The driving experience is an analog and authentic affair with a bespoke rope-rimmed steering wheel providing the driver with immediate feedback wherever your adventures take you – both on and off road.

Leo Davie