Preview: Rolls-Royce Great Eight Phantoms Exhibition
Rolls - Royce releases teaser image as it announces the final icons to join the Great Eight Phantoms Exhibition
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With its powerful stance, iconic proportions and state-of-the-art technology, the Phantom is the signature Rolls-Royce. ‘The Great Eight Phantoms’ exhibition will take place at Bonhams international flagship sales room and galleries in New Bond Street, London from 29 July till 2 August. This is a one-off opportunity for car fanatics and Rolls-Royce lovers to view the iconic cars and learn more about their history.
The 8th Phantom to complete the collection will make its debut at the exhibition and will make its first appearance online at 9 o’clock British Summer Time on 27th July. With new innovations, luxurious features and improvements this is set to be one of the most exciting car launches of the year; but in the meantime check out the cars to be shown alongside it as a reminder of the Phantom’s proud legacy.
The Phantom VI State Limousine
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has graciously assented to her Phantom VI State Limousine being present for the public to see. The custom built Phantom VI was gifted to The Queen to mark her Silver Jubilee, in 1977.
The most striking aspect of this Park Ward-bodied Phantom VI is its raised roofline, supporting an enormous expanse of toughened glass. It enables Her Majesty and other members of the Royal family to see and be seen. The Phantom is finished in Royal Claret and Black Livery and being a state car, it had no need for a number plate.
The car made another particularly memorable appearance – on Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding day. The Duchess of Cambridge and her father were driven to the Abbey in the car; a happy ending for both Kate and the splendid Silver Jubilee Phantom VI.
The Aga Khan Phantom IV
This is the second Royal Phantom to make an appearance at the exhibition. The Aga Khan III is famous for combining a jet-set lifestyle as a thoroughbred horse owner with his role as leader of the Nizari Ismaili Muslim community.
The Aga Khan was among just 18 heads of state and members of Royal families to commission a Rolls-Royce Phantom IV. Taking two years to build, this car really is a show stopper with its bespoke additions including adjustable mirrors, concealed silver brush, comb and compact – all engraved with the Aga Khan’s royal crest – as well as a built-in Dictaphone and a full picnic set.
The Hooper coachwork of the Aga Khan’s Phantom IV has remarkable flowing lines, the rear wheels are enclosed and the body is in the Sedanca de Ville style, whilst the interior features sumptuous red leather, using Connolly hides.
The First Goodwood Phantom –Phantom VII
The First Goodwood Phantom is the motor car that began the renaissance of Rolls-Royce in 2003. Known at the time as “the last great adventure in automotive history”, this renaissance has seen Rolls-Royce retake its rightful place as the world’s leading luxury brand with highly progressive models all designed to the specifications of their individual owner. 14 years after its creation, this First Goodwood Phantom remains in exceptional condition.
It is loaned to ‘The Great Eight Phantoms’ Rolls-Royce Exhibition by its owner, who happens to be the same gentleman who originally commissioned it.
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