The 1944 Willys Jeep, a true icon of World War II and a versatile workhorse, is set to go under the hammer next month with a unique history deeply rooted in Hollywood. This pristine piece of military history comes from TLO Film Services, a company that has been providing vehicles for movie and TV productions since 1962. According to TLO’s records, this particular Willys Jeep has graced the screens in renowned productions like Saving Private Ryan, Band of Brothers, Pennyworth, and more.
TLO Film Services acquired this Willys Jeep in January 1996, and its documented history reveals three previous registered owners. The vehicle was first registered in the UK in 1977, and since then, it has had quite a journey. In February 2023, the Jeep underwent a complete rebuild of its original engine, ensuring its continued functionality. Impressively, the odometer reads 25,975 miles, a testament to the vehicle’s durability and longevity, especially for an 80-year-old, left-hand-drive military Jeep finished in classic Olive Drab paint.
It’s not uncommon for vehicles that have graced the silver screen to find new homes in the collections of private enthusiasts. Notable examples include Wayne’s World’s 1976 AMC Pacer, auctioned in January 2022, and the only surviving W Motors Lykan HyperSport stunt car from Furious 7, which crossed the auction block in 2021.
Before the era of extensive CGI in Hollywood, movies relied on real props, real people, and real locations. Certain vehicles from films achieved true stardom, becoming cultural icons. From the Batmobile to the Mystery Machine and the Ectomobile, these unique creations continue to inspire countless homemade replicas and tributes.
The live auction for the 1944 Willys Jeep is scheduled to take place during the NEC Classic Motor Show Sale 2023 in England on Sunday, November 11. It’s a significant date, coinciding with Veterans Day in the US and Remembrance Day in the UK and other nations that commemorate the end of the First World War. The estimated price for this piece of cinematic and military history is set at 18,000 to 22,000 pounds (equivalent to $21,900 to $26,785 in today’s exchange rate). While this may be less expensive than a 2024 Jeep Wrangler, it’s a piece of history with a Hollywood legacy that comes with its own unique charm.
