Find out what Iron Resurrection builds from Martin Bros Customs typically cost. Get straightforward details on industry estimates, labor rates, project factors, and how Joe Martin’s shop handles custom work.
One of the questions Iron Resurrection fans ask most often is surprisingly simple: How much does Martin Bros Customs charge to build or restore a vehicle?
The short answer is that there isn’t a fixed price.
Unlike dealerships or repair shops with standard service rates, Martin Bros Customs doesn’t publish a price list for the custom cars and motorcycles featured on Iron Resurrection. Every project is different, so each one is quoted individually based on the vehicle, the amount of work involved, and the owner’s goals.
That approach is standard across the custom restoration industry, where no two builds are ever exactly alike.
Why There’s No Standard Price at Martin Bros Customs
Martin Bros Customs has built its reputation on creating one-of-a-kind vehicles rather than offering pre-packaged restoration services. Whether the shop is rebuilding a classic truck, transforming a forgotten muscle car, or fabricating a completely custom motorcycle, every project requires its own combination of design, fabrication, mechanical work, paint, and finishing.
Because of that, the final cost depends on far more than the make and model of the vehicle.
The shop’s official website also notes that it is not currently accepting new build submissions, explaining that its schedule is fully committed with existing projects. While that doesn’t indicate pricing, it does reflect the continued demand for the craftsmanship showcased on Iron Resurrection.
How Much Does an Iron Resurrection-Style Build Cost?
Martin Bros Customs has never publicly released its pricing, so there are no confirmed figures for what the shop charges. However, estimates shared by restoration professionals, industry publications, and experienced builders provide a useful benchmark for projects of a similar scope and quality.
For example, labor rates at high-end custom restoration shops are often reported to fall somewhere between $100 and $150 per hour, although actual rates vary by shop, location, and the complexity of the work. Figures of around $115 per hour are sometimes cited within the industry for specialized fabrication and restoration, but Martin Bros Customs has not confirmed its own labor rate.
Likewise, a full frame-off or frame-up restoration can require 1,600 to 2,000 labor hours—or even more on particularly complex projects. When those labor costs are combined with parts, materials, paint, upholstery, machining, and custom fabrication, it’s not uncommon for enthusiasts and restoration professionals to estimate total project costs in the low to mid six figures.
For especially ambitious builds involving extensive custom fabrication, high-end performance upgrades, or bespoke components, overall costs may exceed $200,000, according to industry discussions.
*These figures should be viewed as general estimates for comparable high-end custom restorations—not as confirmed pricing for Martin Bros Customs.
What Determines the Cost of a Custom Build?
Every custom build is different, but several key factors have the biggest influence on the final investment.
- The condition of the vehicle. A project with minimal rust and complete original components typically requires less labor than one needing extensive metal fabrication or replacement parts.
- The scope of the build. A traditional restoration costs considerably less than a full custom project involving chassis modifications, body alterations, performance upgrades, and a completely redesigned interior.
- Materials and parts. Paint systems, upholstery, wheels, chrome work, engine components, and hard-to-find reproduction parts can significantly affect the overall budget.
- Fabrication time. The more hand-built components a project requires, the more skilled labor is involved. Custom fabrication is one of the biggest contributors to the cost of a high-end build.
- Project timeline. Scheduling, parts availability, and the complexity of the work can all influence both the timeline and the overall investment.
These are the same variables that restoration shops across the industry consider when preparing quotes, making it difficult to assign a meaningful “average price” to a custom build.
The Value Beyond the Price Tag
The true value of a Martin Bros Customs build extends far beyond its final price. Every project is tailored to the owner’s vision, with costs shaped by the vehicle itself, the scope of the work, and the countless hours of skilled craftsmanship required to complete it.
Rather than producing standardized restorations, Joe Martin and his team create one-of-a-kind custom vehicles that combine expert fabrication, engineering, and attention to detail—qualities that have defined both the shop and Iron Resurrection.
While Martin Bros Customs has never publicly disclosed what it charges for individual builds, industry estimates for comparable high-end custom restorations suggest that projects of this caliber often start in the low six figures, with more complex commissions potentially costing considerably more.
These figures should be viewed as general benchmarks rather than confirmed pricing, as every build is unique.
For anyone considering a project, the only way to obtain an accurate estimate is to contact Martin Bros Customs directly and discuss the specific vehicle, goals, and level of customization involved.
Also read:
