Jaguar Spruce Green Pearl (823/HFL 1823/HGL) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This shade is a rare gem from the late nineties that defines British elegance. Since it was only active for the 1998 model year, your Jaguar is likely an XJ or an XK8 that carries a bit of a "unicorn" status. The color is a deep, moody forest green that hides a secret shimmer. Because your car has spent over a quarter-century on the road, the original finish has likely mellowed or darkened slightly from its factory state. This means your repair needs a gentle touch to bridge the gap between the fresh paint and the seasoned panels of your classic.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, which is significantly more complex than a standard solid color. Instead of just green pigment, it contains translucent mica particles that act like tiny prisms. These particles are what give the car that liquid depth in the sun, but they can be temperamental. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the mica can "sink" or cluster, creating dark spots or stripes. You want to build the color with light, even layers to ensure the shimmer stays uniform across the repair area.

Best Practices

On a Jaguar from this era, your paint code is almost always located on a sticker or metal plate inside the driver's side door jamb. Before you spray or dab Jaguar Spruce Green Pearl (check for code 823/HFL 1823/HGL), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is non-negotiable because the heavy mica particles settle at the bottom of the container quickly. Test the color on the included card first to get a feel for the flow. When you move to the car, keep the container moving at all times to avoid pooling. Work in the shade or a well-lit garage, and give each thin coat plenty of drying time before adding the next.