Every so often, a project comes along that reminds us exactly why we do what we do. This is one of those stories.
It started when Jim Pohl in the USA got in touch, asking if we could recreate a set of original 16″ wheels for his 1953 Sunbeam Alpine.
Solving a Classic Problem
Jim’s request wasn’t just about aesthetics — there were real challenges to overcome.
The original steel wheels required inner tubes, due to their low-profile edge design. However, when paired with modern tyres, this had been causing inner tube failures, as the tubes would rub against the inside of the tyre.
For Jim, who competes in historic road rallies, this simply wasn’t workable. He needed to run modern radial tyres — essential for grip and safety, particularly in snowy conditions.
From Original to Improved
Working closely with Jim, and alongside Dave Bamforth of Sunbeam Talbot Spares, we were provided with an original wheel along with additional parts to begin development.
The goal was clear:
✔ Retain the original look
✔ Improve usability and safety
✔ Engineer a modern solution
The end result was a billet-centred, 3-piece split rim wheel, sized at 4.5 x 16″, faithfully replicating the original design — but now manufactured in aluminium and fully compatible with modern tyres.
By the end of the project, Jim had a total of 10 wheels:
- One set finished in satin black
- One set in a deep red (RAL 3003)
- Plus two spare wheels
Jim was delighted with the outcome — and at that point, we thought the story ended there…
The Reveal
A week or two after delivery, we discovered something incredible.
These wheels weren’t just for any Sunbeam Alpine.
They were destined for Stirling Moss’ 1953 Monte Carlo Rally car — the actual car he competed in during the 1953 Monte Carlo Rallye.
A true piece of motorsport history.
Back on the Monte Carlo Rally
We followed the journey closely through updates from Sprockets and Spanners, who accompanied Jim, his wife Joyce, and Dave Bamforth on the rally in January 2026.
Their route took them across Europe:
- From Rotterdam
- Through Reims and Bar-sur-Aube
- On to Dole, St Marcene, and the Parc Fermé
- Down through Valence
- And finally to Monaco and Monte Carlo
An incredible journey — and one made even more special for us seeing our wheels fitted to such a legendary car.
A Proud Moment for Image Wheels
It was a genuine privilege to be part of this project — creating wheels for a car with such history, and seeing it back where it belongs, out on the road and competing.
Throughout the entire process, Jim and Dave were an absolute pleasure to work with, and we’re proud we were able to deliver the wheels in time for such an iconic event.
Seeing our work on Stirling Moss’ Monte Carlo car is something we won’t forget anytime soon.
