Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
A phantom is an apparition or spirit that moves silently and is often perceived as being freed from reality. However, when its presence is exposed to society a pervasive effect of opulent distinction takes precedence and captivates the hearts and minds of those bearing witness. This exact emotional draw occurred in Las Vegas when Rolls-Royce Motor Cars introduced the luxurious Phantom Centenary Private Collection.
Conceived in 1925 to replace the Silver Ghost, the legendary Rolls-Royce Phantom has provided elite transportation in grand style to the world’s most influential individuals including Royal families, art collectors, philanthropists, and entertainers. The stately touring sedan caters to the luxury elite and represents the ultimate status of accomplishment and financial astuteness. Celebrating 100 years of excellence defined by bespoke craftsmanship, British engineering, and innovation, the Goodwood automaker introduced the celestial Phantom Centenary Private Collection to guests attending the prestigious Concours at the Wynn Las Vegas.
Presented by Richard Mille, the Concours featured hundreds of the world’s most exalted and rarest automobiles including the Centenary, limited to just 25 examples at a starting price of approximately $3 million. Rolls-Royce created this limited edition to honor the Phantom’s heritage through intricate, custom details. The British chariot, finished in a two-toned Bespoke hue, was one of the main stars at the relatively new car show and served as a captivating backdrop for thousands of enthusiastic attendees passing by. Paint specialists integrated Super Champagne Crystal over Arctic White and Super Champagne Crystal over Black, and produced a metallic shimmer by infusing fine, crushed glass particles into the clear coat. Impressive!
“Through all its eight generations, Phantom has never been compromised by existing engineering orthodoxy, fleeting trends, or development costs. From Henry Royce’s original New Phantom to today’s Phantom VIII, the essential purpose behind Phantom has always remained the same: to build the motor car that offers owner-drivers and passengers alike the most comfortable, satisfying experience available in the world at that moment in time – the unassailable pinnacle of luxury and motoring excellence.” – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
When I first laid eyes on the Centenary I was in awe and remained so for quite some time studying the specific details. It’s elaborate and fluid, captivating from every angle. The hood is crowned with a specialized, solid gold Spirit of Ecstasy, named after the actress Eleanor Velasco Thornton. The iconic figurine is the most recognizable vehicle ornament in the world and breathlessly leans forward in motion, guiding your Phantom like an Azzam superyacht on clear, blue waters. In unison, the vanes of the Pantheon grille are now smoother in section and have a flusher fit, designed to help guide air for a more aerodynamic ride. I also noticed the 25 concentric lines encircling the “RR” Badge of Honor on each Phantom disc wheel. Of course, they amount to 100. Moreover, the “RR” on the front, rear, and sides is finished in 24-karat gold.
The posh cabin is hand-stitched, designed, and laid out. Beautiful veneers, exquisite leathers, precious metals, and captivating illumination come together to form the most inspiring interior ever in a Rolls-Royce, let alone a Phantom. The theme honors 100 years of Rolls-Royce luminaries, clients, significant models, special places, and journeys, as well as moments that matter. Each of the 77 motifs shown on the seats, Starlight Headliner (includes 440,000 stitches), and doors was hand-sketched by a designer before Rolls-Royce digitized them for leather, wood, or thread inscription (including 24-karat gold leafing).
Just as in the past, during the golden era of Hollywood glamour, esteemed guests were escorted to the theatre and premieres in 1930s Phantoms. Regarding storytelling, the seat cushions portray a map of central London. The artwork also incorporates imagery of today’s Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, Sir Henry Royce’s oil paintings of Southern France, and West Wittering where Sir Henry resided. Furthermore, the stained Blackwood door panels showcase pivotal journeys in the Phantom’s epic road history. Here are a few of the key subject matters:
Of course, most owners will hire private drivers to escort them around town in their Phantom. For those who choose to drive themselves, appreciation will resonate from the stalwart 6.75-liter V12 engine. It is sheltered by a majestic Arctic White cover detailed in 24-karat gold to embody the seamless power and performance confidence that characterizes Phantom models.
Over 40,000 collective hours of meticulous creation and three years of development have culminated in the Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary. As the purveyor of pristine automobiles continues to embrace Private Collections, this unique Phantom proves that Rolls-Royce remains in a class of its own.
Automotive Addicts Contributors are a collective of guest writers, industry professionals, and passionate enthusiasts who bring fresh perspectives to the Automotive Addicts platform. Focused on delivering timely news, in-depth reviews, and unique insights, these contributors help keep the site dynamic and engaging. Many use the platform to expand their reach and build credibility within the automotive media world, adding depth and variety to the content that drives the Automotive Addicts community.
