The ‘Calypso’ is the brilliant result of more than a decade of meticulous restoration, craftsmanship, and modernization. As the largest and most rare model Westcraft ever offered, the ‘Capistrano’ is 33 feet long and features a Pullman roof (commonly referred to as a trolley top). Flanked with seven windows on each side, the raised center of the ceiling provides 6’4″ of headroom. When Lucas Lackner purchased this rare model coach, it was in poor condition. Being one of only two known to exist, Lackner assembled a team of some of the best craftspeople in California to achieve the finest restoration possible.
The goal was NOT to restore this trailer to it’s original mint condition,
but to create an even more opulent antique style based on the original design.
The team was led by Steven Butcher, who worked with Lucas to envision a resto-mod unlike any other. Butcher brought his years of trailer and vehicle restoration experience to the project. A collector himself, Butcher’s eye for design and knowledge of vintage Americana made him a worthy collaborator. The two decided to improve upon the original design by integrating the latest in safety features, luxury, comfort, and connectivity. Modern touches are hidden within cabinets and behind period switch plates and custom-made curtains to maintain the classical Deco feel. Rather than using LEDs, the light bulbs in the gorgeous fixtures were replaced with originals.
Approximately half of the interior birch paneling needed to be replaced. The new sheets required numerous coats of tinted varnish and faux grain to match the originals. Once installed, all the wood surfaces were given four coats of varnish and were sanded between every layer. The old-growth pine floors were removed, refinished, and treated to a unique inlay pattern.
The trailer sat for many years without being repainted, causing about 50% of the aluminum body to be oxidized. Utilizing the latest in CNC waterjet technology, new body panels with compound angles and curves were created. Heavy-gauge stainless steel surfaces were machined and individually fitted for the kitchen counters and bathroom interior, including a fantastic shower stall. The bathroom panels are interlocking to prevent any moisture penetration. All new period faucets and fixtures were incorporated into the design. Water jetted and polished aluminum was used for the shelf trim, speaker grilles, fan & AC vents, drawer handles, and grips. Meticulous details such as faucet fittings and the shower curtain rod were custom milled from solid aluminum. The propane tanks were polished and coated to prevent oxidation.
The undercarriage and chassis received the treatment that this build demanded. Thoroughly cleaned, repaired, and reinforced by adding gussets and plates in critical areas. The electrical wiring was completely replaced with 20-amp Romex. The wheels were refinished and fitted with new tires. The axles, brakes, and springs were also refurbished and updated.
Other fine amenities include custom blinds throughout, a completely redone Dixie Permaview stove. The fully restored late 1940’s American Standard jade toilet contains new internals and can be used in either the travel trailer or park trailer configurations. Both the exquisite carpentry and superb leatherwork were meticulously handcrafted by extremely experienced specialists. No expense was spared, nor attention to detail overlooked to create a trailer that is unique in all the world.
