New Classic Restoration Shop in Madison

[circletrack]

Has anyone heard anything? I’ve seen the ads in the paper and Steve was told they bought the old Capitol Corvette building and will be starting there. It sure will be nice to have an option in Madison besides Blue Chip.

Topic

[GTO Man]

Do you know who bought it and what it will be called? That would be handy for people on this side of town.

[circletrack]

All I know is the ad says Benchmark Classics, which I’ve never heard of.

[Amigo2k]

I love google:

it looks like they are hiring an office manager:

http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/job-JBTTEGN6ESN;_ylt=AoIJldbVuDDvRN2ACXsMymv6Q6IX?search_url=%2Fjob-search-l-Madison-WI-c-Clerical_Administrative-n-Benchmark%2520Classics

Needed for new classic car dealership in Madison. This position will report to the COO. The candidate must have at least three years of experience working at a managerial level at a car dealership or in the automotive industry and have a bachelor’s degree. The position will be responsible for running the dealership with the COO. Great people skills are essential. Excellent computer skills are a must. Outstanding references are required. If you want an immensely satisfying job this is it. Please email resumes to:jcole@benchmarkclassics.com

http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/job-JGJNY7PYCWE;_ylt=AvI.cGAAdLjfYSLaq2O_KBz6Q6IX?search_url=%2Fjob-search-l-Madison-WI-m-0-e-2-5-n-Benchmark%2520Classics

Automotive
Classic auto restoration and service specialists needed. Two positions available. 1st position- at least 3 years experience in paint and body required. Must also be proficient in removing and installing interiors , transmissions, and engines. 2nd position- must have at least three years experience in rebuilding engines and transmissions. Also must be knowledgeable on body work. More experience results in more pay. References would be helpful. Please email resumes to jcole@benchmarkclassics.com.

The domain name was registered on the 25Jan2008 to a company in Scottsdale, AZ (rust free cars ….).

[circletrack]

Yes, I saw all that too, but that’s all I can find on this company. I’m loving AZ.

[Anonymous]

I drive by this location every day and I don’t see any activity or anything going on that would suggest that Benchmark Classics are ready to open for business. Actually, the “Building For Lease” sign is still in front of the building.

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[Amigo2k]

I emailed the guy and here was his response:

We will be located at 5400 King James Way in Fitchburg. We are planning on opening March 15th or 21st.

[Anonymous]

Amigo 2k thanks for informing me about this blog. Your speculations have merit. We are in the old Capitol Corvette building but are in no way associated with what happened there. The for lease sign is about to come down. It looks like we snuck two eighteen wheelers by past you guys.

[Amigo2k]

Thanks for posting! icon_cheesygrin.gif

1. Could you let us in on your business plan? That is, will you only have customer cars, or will you have shop cars you will build and then sell?

2. Any idea when your website will be up and running?

3. Are you planning on tracking your builds online (permitted the owner is ok with it)?

4. Why did you pick Madison to set up shop?

5. Have thought about having an open house?

6. Do you think you would have some cars ready to bring out to Quaker Steak and Lube Cruise Ins on Thursday nights this summer (same goes for car shows)?

[circletrack]

I’m glad to see them here also, and can’t wait for the answers. It will be nice to have another shop in town!

[GTO Man]

It will be nice to have a classic car dealer in town.

[jonmandude]

But I hope they aren’t too late for this. With the economy slipping and classic prices on a down turn, it may be bad timing.

I know much of Blue Chip’s business comes from Chicago, not Madison. Will it be the same for these guys?

[Anonymous]

Amigo:
Our website (benchmarkclassics dot com) will be up and running by the 15th, maybe sooner.

We chose Madison because it is centrally located in the Midwest. We will consider Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago, The Twin Cities, and Detroit our back yard. About 30% of the cars we sell will be to international clients.

Jonmandude:
In general, the the average vintage cars are experiencing some decline in prices but the collectible investment grade cars are increasing in value.

[Anonymous]

Amigo: I forgot to tell you that we will have a different car to bring down to Quaker Steak and Lube every week.

[jonmandude]

Quote:

We chose Madison because it is centrally located in the Midwest. We will consider Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago, The Twin Cities, and Detroit our back yard. About 30% of the cars we sell will be to international clients.

Jonmandude:
In general, the the average vintage cars are experiencing some decline in prices but the collectible investment grade cars are increasing in value.

Makes sense to me. I wish you luck and welcome to Madison.

I understand that the price of gas definitely effects the average vintage cars. There is a “can’t afford to drive them so why purchase” mentality. Do you think the threat of recession will effect the prices any?

[Anonymous]

The threat of a recession will effect prices of average cars but not the correct top notch show cars.

[Author]

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