Based in the old Oxford University Boathouse situated at the bottom of Isis Street, he began by repairing damaged oars for college crews.
By the time the Second World War broke out the Collar reputation was sufficiently established for Frank to secure a contract with the Air Ministry to make oars for all aircraft lifeboats.
[citation needed] Winning a contract with the Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) (MOD) is marked as a turning point in the company history due to the vast quantity of oars ordered and as a result additional staff, machines and premises had to be found.
Still providing recreational, specialist sculls and oars Collars were to move their primary focus to the yachting market that had been steadily growing in the background.
At present the company hand manufactures Masts and Spars for Yachts as well as a broad selection of standard and specialist wooden oars.