Meet The

PROPRIETOR

John has been the proprietor of Lionel Otto Instruments for the past 14 years, taking over from Clive Hammond in 2005. Initially, Clive was going to close the business after being unable to find a suitable buyer, when John approached him about taking over the business. Seeing John's passion and skills Clive knew that John was the right person to take on the stewardship of the Lionel Otto Instruments legacy.

Due to 20 years in the production industry, John discovered complementary skills which allowed him to translate his technical theatre, audio and production experience, to instrument repair.  John uses this practical knowledge of electronics, logic, problem-solving, and people management skills to be able to efficiently deliver repairs to his customers each and every day.

John finds his personal passions help him relate to his customers. Having a garage full of enviable classics, Austin Healey Sprites, BSA motorbikes, a Goggomobil, and Mini Cooper S (to name a few) alongside his daily drivers, a Land Rover Defender, and Range Rover Evoque. John is well versed in the passion that goes into restoring a classic to its former glory and the need for your daily car to be running smoothly. He understands you want to best for your vehicles and knows the quality and workmanship that goes into an instrument panel reflects the passion a car owner has for their vehicles.

John also knows the importance of the accuracy of the instruments in your car. He understands, being a racer, himself, of classic cars, how an accurate temperature gauge can be the difference between a DNF and crossing the finish line.

John has raced everything from his own Austin Healey Bugeye Sprite to a Formula V’s to the iconic BMC Works MG Midget from the 1972 Surfers Paradise 12 hour driven by John French and Brian Foley. (Read more about that amazing car here, here, here, and here)

 John heads up a team of five skilled professional repairers with many years of instrument repair knowledge. Each member of the team has their varying niches, ranging from Japanese and British motorbikes, vintage cars and motorbikes, historic cars and vehicles, and electronics.

This combined knowledge base means even the most “basket case” gauges are restored to showroom condition. John and the team are ready to take on your toughest jobs.