This Restored 1961 Airstream Globetrotter Is Flawless but Hides a Heartbreaking Catch

Ok, so just to make sure we're all on the same page here, the 1961 Airstream Globetrotter before you is currently up for sale. While that's nothing "wow," what is shocking is the fact that this baby is selling for no less than $120,000! That's heartbreaking for most of us.

Well, first and foremost, it's important to note that this "restored" Globetrotter has been completed by Craig Dorsey. While I don't expect you to know who this gentleman is, all you really need to know is that he's one of the leading "go-to experts" for those of us who want or need a classic trailer restoration.

As an idea of the level at which Dorsey operates, his shop has been responsible for hundreds of restoration jobs over the years, some of which even belong to Hollywood stars and studios. One job required that he give life to a $200,000 interior for an "airplane-inspired" Silver Streak trailer. Some even dare say that the Silver Streak campers were better than an Airstream, but that's a story for another day.

All this brings us to the stunning execution of the Globetrotter before us. First and foremost, take a nice long look at the images in the gallery. As you do, take in the flawless and almost mirror-like aluminum exterior, rivets and all.

It's this feature alone that tells the entire world nearly everything they need to know about what you're towing along. Once you spot the square forward lounge window, you know you're looking at an Airstream. If you still need some help, the word "Airstream" sitting on a baby blue background wipes out all doubt.

Honestly, I encounter countless camper designs on a daily basis, and be they new, old, or vintage, rarely will you see a restored unit showcasing such a clean and crisp exterior. Even the archway sitting above the side entrance looks like it came off the assembly line just yesterday, a testament to Dorsey's abilities. Be sure to check out the matching gas tank covers.

However, we do live in a modern-day with countless tricks up our sleeves and some of them have been incorporated into this unit. On top of the Globetrotter, we can spot an AC system and, most importantly, a solar panel, giving us a blend of classic looks with modern features.

This idea of classic meets modern is also extended to the interior of the Globetrotter and in the rawest way imaginable. Upon first seeing the interior, I'm not going to lie—I was a bit—how do I say this nicely—disgusted, and I wasn't the only person with this first impression. But how wrong was I?!

It took me a moment to realize that the whole idea behind this restoration job was to bring forth the true essence of what this camper may have looked like, and if you ask me, Dorsey hit the nail on the head with this one. Every inch of this wooden interior reflects the way things used to be and the fact that there are still people out there who want things the way they used to be.

But don't be mistaken; within those wooden walls and panels are hidden the most modern features. I already mentioned the AC unit, but future owners will also find mood lights and LEDs with smart dimmers, 120V sockets and USB ports, a Jabsco electric toilet, and an XM Satellite radio with surround sound.

The kitchen hides a Dometic fridge with a custom door to match the interior. A four-burner top and oven, a furnace, and a water heater are also part of the mix. However, my favorite feature is the water purification system—essential, if you ask me. There is a shower in here, too, hidden underneath the dinette, much like you'd find in some European camper vans these days.

The real question then remains: Is it worth it? Well, it all depends on how much money you've got in your bank account for something like this, but if you ask someone like me, I'd definitely try to haggle that price down a few thousand dollars.

So, you've fallen in love with this restored Airstream and want to make sure it ends up behind your trailer? All you have to do is get in touch with the seller via Vintage Camper Trailers and go from there. Best of all, even if you can't make it to the destination to see it before you buy it, the seller will assist with shipping.