Jersey Jon has become a familiar face on HISTORY’s American Pickers, capturing the curiosity of viewers. While the show is typically led by Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, Jersey Jon has stepped in to fill the void left by Frank. But who exactly is Jersey Jon, and what’s his role on American Pickers? Let’s delve into some interesting facts about this motorcycle aficionado and antique expert.
Jersey Jon: A Motorcycle Maven
Jersey Jon is no stranger to the motorcycle industry, where he’s earned a sterling reputation. His expertise in this field has made him a valuable asset to American Pickers. His journey began with restoring and repairing furniture for local antique shops. Additionally, he crafted cabinetry for kiosks on a boardwalk in South Jersey. Today, he runs his own business, “First National Antique Restorations.”
A Familiar Face on American Pickers
While Jersey Jon may have recently taken on a more prominent role in American Pickers, he’s been making sporadic appearances on the show for quite some time. He first graced our screens in season 7 and has since had occasional encounters with Mike and Frank. Some viewers wondered if he was stepping in for Frank Fritz, but it’s believed that he’s overseeing the Antique Archaeology store in LeClaire, Iowa. Furthermore, reports suggest he’s currently recovering from back surgery.
A Close Friend of Mike Wolfe
When Jersey Jon was introduced to Frank and the audience, he was presented as a close friend of Mike Wolfe. He played a pivotal role during season 14 by providing Mike and Frank with a lead in exchange for assistance in acquiring antique Harley parts. This friendship has added an intriguing dynamic to the show.
The Origin of ‘Jersey’ Jon
While many know him as Jersey Jon, this motorcycle specialist and antique connoisseur’s real name is Jon Szaley. The “Jersey” part of his moniker likely stems from his upbringing in South Jersey, where he embarked on his career journey. Impressively, by the age of 17, Jon had amassed enough resources to purchase an abandoned bank building on the South Jersey shore, marking the beginning of his successful ventures.
Jersey Jon’s Instagram Presence
If you’re curious about Jersey Jon’s life beyond the show, you can catch a glimpse of it on his Instagram profile. He describes himself as a “daydream believer” and a “lucky rider.” As expected, his posts often revolve around motorcycles, bikes, and occasional snapshots of his son, Jonathan. On some occasions, he even takes part in motor racing events, including those held at Weedsport in New York. Additionally, his followers get an inside look at his latest restoration projects, showcasing his dedication to preserving antique treasures.
Conclusion
Jersey Jon’s unique blend of expertise in motorcycles and antique restoration has made him a valuable member of the American Pickers team. Despite his recent increase in screen time, he’s been associated with the show for years and has become an integral part of the Pickers family. With his engaging presence and rich background, Jersey Jon continues to be a fascinating figure for viewers to follow on his journey through the world of antiques and motorcycles.
