automobile
Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
A phantom is an apparition or spirit that moves silently and is often perceived as detached from reality. However, when his presence is presented to society, the pervasive effect of opulent gentility prevails and captivates the hearts and minds of those who witness it. This same emotional appeal occurred in Las Vegas when Rolls-Royce Motor Cars introduced the luxurious Phantom Centenary Private Collection.
Designed in 1925 to replace the Silver Ghost, the iconic Rolls-Royce Phantom provides first-class transportation on a grand scale to the world’s most influential people, including royalty, art collectors, philanthropists and entertainers. The stately touring sedan is aimed at the luxury elite and represents the ultimate status of performance and financial sophistication. To mark 100 years of bespoke craftsmanship, British engineering and innovation, the Goodwood-based automaker introduced the ethereal Phantom Centenary Private Collection to guests at the prestigious Concours at Wynn Las Vegas.
Hosted by Richard Mille, the Concours showcased hundreds of the world’s most sublime and rare automobiles, including the Centenary, which was limited to just 25 examples with a starting price of approximately $3 million. Rolls-Royce created this limited edition to honor the Phantom’s heritage through intricate, bespoke details. The British chariot, painted in a two-tone Bespoke hue, was one of the star stars at the relatively new motor show, serving as a captivating backdrop for the thousands of excited visitors who passed by. Paint specialists integrated Super Champagne Crystal over Arctic White and Super Champagne Crystal over Black, creating a metallic shimmer by incorporating fine, crushed glass particles into the clear coat. Impressive!
“Throughout its eight generations, the Phantom has never been compromised by existing technical orthodoxy, fleeting trends or development costs. From Henry Royce’s original New Phantom to today’s Phantom VIII, the Phantom’s essential purpose has always remained the same: to build the automobile that will provide owners, drivers and passengers alike with the most comfortable and satisfying experience available in the world at that time – the unassailable pinnacle of luxury and ride quality.” – Rolls-Royce motor car.
When I first saw the 100th anniversary, I was in awe and remained so for quite a while as I studied the specific details. It’s lavish and fluid and captivating from every angle. The hood is topped with a special solid gold Spirit of Ecstasy, named after actress Eleanor Velasco Thornton. The world’s most recognizable vehicular ornament, the iconic figure breathlessly leans forward as it moves, steering your Phantom like an Azzam superyacht on clear blue waters. At the same time, the Pantheon grille slats now have a smoother cross-section and a more flush fit to help direct air for a more aerodynamic ride. I also noticed the 25 concentric lines surrounding the “RR”. Badge of honor on every Phantom disc wheel. Of course there are 100 pieces. Additionally, the “RR” on the front, back and sides is finished in 24-karat gold.
The noble hut is hand-sewn, designed and laid out. Beautiful veneers, exquisite leather, precious metals and mesmerizing lighting combine to create the most inspiring interior ever in a Rolls-Royce, let alone a Phantom. The theme celebrates 100 years of Rolls-Royce luminaries, customers, significant models, special places and journeys and important moments. Each of the 77 motifs on the seats, Starlight Headliner (including 440,000 stitches) and doors were hand-drawn by a designer before Rolls-Royce digitized them for leather, wood or thread lettering (including 24-carat gold leaf).
Just as in the past, during the golden era of Hollywood glamour, 1930s Phantoms escorted esteemed guests to theaters and premieres. In terms of storytelling, the seat cushions depict a map of central London. The artwork also includes images of Rolls-Royce’s current home in Goodwood, Sir Henry Royce’s oil paintings of the South of France and West Wittering, where Sir Henry lived. Additionally, the stained Blackwood door panels illustrate pivotal journeys in the Phantom’s epic road history. Here are some of the key topics:
- The rear doors show the coast of Le Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, where Henry Royce wintered.
- The passenger door shows West Wittering near his summer home.
- The driver’s door pays homage to the first Goodwood Phantom’s 4,500-mile journey through Australia.
Of course, most owners hire private drivers to accompany them around town in their Phantom. Those who decide to drive themselves will be impressed by the robust 6.75-liter V12 engine. It is protected by a majestic Arctic White cover with 24-karat gold detailing to embody the seamless power and performance assurance that characterizes the Phantom models.
More than 40,000 hours of careful creation and three years of development have resulted in the Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary. As the purveyor of immaculate automobiles continues to rely on private collections, this one-of-a-kind Phantom proves that Rolls-Royce is still in a class of its own.
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