Franco Pace has photographed in color 19 Fife yachts built between 1890 and the end of World War II all immaculately restored. Some of the more famous beauties include Shamrock , Moonbeam , Clio and Halloween , built in 1926, restored in Newport, Rhode Island in the 80's and now a regular winner on the Mediterranean regatta circuit. Pace's action shots are full of sunlight and shadow and lots of spray. Interior shots of glowing wood paneling and period appointments draw the viewer into the warmth of the salons and owners' cabins. The surprise is how simple, even austere, the interiors are.
Nothing is fancy but everything is perfect.
P ace adds his own comments to each series of photographs of a specific yacht. Many were on the brink of being scuttled because of their age and condition. A particularly devoted Swiss businessman established Fairlie Restorations in 1989. This small yard is solely devoted to the accurate restoration of Fife yachts. Restoration has been going on all over the world from Canada to Norway and in between.