Creme de la Creme
Words: David Lillsunde / Photos: David & Emilia Lillsunde
Helsinki in January isn’t exactly vibrant. But step into Kerma Car Club out in Tattarisuo, and you’re transported. Neon signs from long-gone diners, theaters and pharmacies glow with the spirit of a Helsinki long forgotten.
A ‘59 Cadillac Fleetwood limo anchors the room. Fords, Chevys, Edsels and two-wheelers flank it. Jon “Oski” Granström welcomes us. In the corner, Jouni “Jouska” Nissinen is elbow- deep in his ‘58 Dodge D100. - We call it old man daycare, jokes Tommi Tikanoja. -I’m 60 and the youngest member.
The club started seven years ago. “Kerma” means “cream” in Finnish, a nod to the best of the old HCCA crowd. They’re now eight members strong, bonded since school days.
Harri Toura, one of the originals, passed away. His jacket now hangs proudly from the ceiling. Tommi’s gray ‘32 Roadster was meant to be simple but turned into a period-correct stunner. Mercury flathead, Pontiac taillights, and a rare Hollywood Accessories plate bracket found among Jouska’s treasures.
Juuso Haapasalo’s golden ‘31 pickup hides under a tarp. It’s been updated with a fresh small block and rebuilt driveline. Last time we saw it, it was up for sale. Who knows where it sits now?
Like stepping out from a time travel, we find ourselves back on the bus bound for metro Helsinki. A little more gray. A modern Helsinki. A Helsinki living in the year 2025.
