The Birth of Rolls-Royce Phantom: Forging an Icon (Part 1)

Rolls-Royce is known for being a haven of art and the Phantom is an enduring icon of heritage. For almost a century and 8 generations, the Rolls-Royce Phantom has continued to embody the essence and vision of its founders, Charles Rolls and Henry Royce.

ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM: A CENTURY, AN ICON

In December 1904, Rolls-Royce introduced their first car to the world, the 40/50 Silver Ghost, also known as the Rolls-Royce 10HP. It was hailed as the “best car in the world” and marked the beginning of a partnership between Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce. Only six months after deciding to create a Rolls-Royce “empire”, they introduced the world to the first car of many.

In 1925, nearly 20 years after the official establishment of the Rolls-Royce brand, the first Phantom was unveiled to the public. Known as Phantom I, or “The New Phantom”, it marked a new era for car enthusiasts around the world.

Phantom I – ‘The New Phantom’ – the first design named Phantom, is considered the closest descendant of the Rolls-Royce 10HP model.

Shortly after, in 1929, Rolls-Royce introduced the Phantom II, a version that would become a milestone in the development of the Phantom line for the next 97 years and 8 different versions. The Phantom II even made an appearance in the 1989 film “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, exactly 60 years after its initial release.

Phantom II – the design that set the standard for generations of Phantom models.

In the mid-1930s, the Phantom III was introduced, marking another significant milestone. It was the first and only Rolls-Royce in the family to feature a V12 engine until the Silver Seraph was introduced in 1998. The final Phantom III chassis was crafted in 1941, but it wasn’t until 1947 that a completed coachbuilt body was delivered to its owner. The Phantom III also made its appearance as a “movie star” in the 1964 James Bond film, driven by the main antagonist Auric Goldfinger. Even at 25 years old, the Phantom III ran smoothly and effortlessly.

The Phantom III in the movie Goldfinger (1964)

Unlike its predecessors, the 4th generation Rolls-Royce Phantom was exclusively crafted for royalty and heads of state. It all began in 1939, when Rolls-Royce introduced an experimental car to find a successor to the Phantom III. The development process extended throughout and after World War II. The official name of this car was the Comet, but it was commonly referred to as the “Scalded Cat” due to its powerful performance. The Scalded Cat was often driven by influential individuals, including Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Impressed by its performance, he requested Rolls-Royce to produce a custom version exclusively for him and his wife, later known as Queen Elizabeth II, for their daily use.

Phantom IV owned by Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, Aga Khan III

In November 1948, an official order was received from the Royal Family, requesting the production of a Rolls-Royce for the Prince and the Queen. Initially, the manufacturer planned to produce only one Rolls-Royce Phantom IV, which would be driven by Prince Philip. The car’s success in terms of image and quality led to its continued usage in a special project requested by the Spanish government.

Following these unique events, Rolls-Royce implemented a policy exclusively reserving their cars for royalty and heads of state, a policy known as “Royalty and Heads of State only”. From 1950 to 1956, only 18 Rolls-Royce Phantom IVs were produced, owned by the British Royal Family and high-ranking officials from other countries including Spain, Iraq, and Kuwait. Many distinguished individuals desired to possess this prestigious model, but only a select few had the privilege of experiencing the symbol of absolute power.

To this day, Rolls-Royce Phantom IVs continue to operate impeccably and bear witness to major global events. They play a crucial role in building the brand’s image of authority, firmness, and distinctive values within the Phantom line. With their elegant and dignified designs, yet understated luxury, the Phantom IV models embody enduring beauty. The image of a Phantom IV gracefully cruising through significant international events, such as the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, continues to captivate enthusiasts of timeless classic beauty and serves as a symbol of Rolls-Royce’s excellence.

Rolls-Royce Phantom IV at a royal wedding

Following the success of the Phantom IV, Rolls-Royce introduced the 5th generation of the sedan. The Rolls-Royce Phantom V, as it was named, featured a V8 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners could select between two prestigious coachbuilders: Park Ward and James Young. The car was not only used by Queen Elizabeth II but also by renowned figures such as singers John Lennon, Elton John, and Elvis Presley. Currently, two Phantom Vs owned by the British Royal Family are on display at the Sandringham Car Museum and the Royal Museum HMY Britannia.

Rolls-Royce Phantom V owned by singer John Lennon

ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM VIII: OPENING A NEW ERA

In the 21st century, Rolls-Royce continues to set the highest standards of quality, aesthetics, and uniqueness. On July 27, 2017, Rolls-Royce introduced the 8th generation Phantom, combining the technologies of the modern era with the brand’s 100-year legacy. The Phantom VIII was built on the “Architecture of Luxury” platform, a first in the brand’s history, with the main structure of the car made of aluminum alloy. These enhancements have revitalized Rolls-Royce’s renowned Coachbuild art, allowing collectors to express their creativity and emotions by creating masterpieces that harmonize artistic and technological elements.

ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM BOHEMIAN RED: ASSERTING DOMINANCE

Rolls-Royce always prioritizes the individuality and personal touch of their owners. Therefore, the British automaker offers over 44,000 different paint shades and the ability to accurately replicate collectors’ preferred colors. One of the rare and emotionally charged colors available is Bohemian Red.

To fully showcase the artistry of the Phantom’s paint, craftsmen apply up to 5 layers of paint, in addition to multiple layers of protective coatings.

Upon closer inspection, the Bohemian Red exterior color exudes a sense of freedom and emotional allure. As its name suggests, this red hue represents the desire for liberation, breaking boundaries, and avoiding life’s routines. In dim lighting, Bohemian Red exudes a mysterious charm reminiscent of a Bohemian girl. However, when illuminated, the color explodes with emotions, resembling the red hue of Cabernet Sauvignon wine and showcasing a delicate crystal effect. This color choice is also rare among Rolls-Royce cars in Vietnam.

To fully showcase the artistry of the Phantom’s paint, craftsmen apply up to 5 layers of paint, in addition to multiple layers of protective coatings. This meticulous process creates a deep shine that faithfully reflects the surrounding environment on the car’s surface. The Phantom stands out as the most prominent reflection of the owner’s success. The entire painting process for a Rolls-Royce Phantom takes over 7 days and is executed by hand at the Goodwood factory in southern England.

Inspired by the Pantheon temple, craftsmen have precisely adjusted the thickness of each slat to create a symmetrical visual effect when viewed from the front.

Not only does the exterior color leave a lasting impression, but the Rolls-Royce Phantom Bohemian Red also pays homage to the brand’s traditions. A significant and distinctive feature is the large-sized Pantheon Grille. Inspired by ancient Roman architecture, this detail is meticulously handcrafted and polished for numerous hours, resulting in unique shades among all cars. Drawing inspiration from this temple, craftsmen have precisely adjusted the thickness of each slat to create a symmetrical visual effect when viewed from the front.

When one thinks of Rolls-Royce, images of unmatched craftsmanship immediately come to mind. This is exemplified by the meticulous execution of the traditional Coachline. Creating this masterpiece allows no room for imperfection, not even a millimeter on the nearly 6-meter-long pattern, which measures only about 4 mm in width. Each Coachline carries spiritual value, representing the pursuit of perfection that both Rolls-Royce and the owner aspire to convey through the Phantom.

The trims of the Gallery display space remain a highlight in the interior, upholding the brand’s longstanding traditions.

Contrasting the Bohemian Red exterior color, the interior space features a soft Smoke Gray color, complemented by contrasting details and stitching lines in Ardent Red. The individual seat design provides an experience akin to a first-class flight cabin. At this moment, the senses gradually envelop a soothing experience enhanced by the sleek and coolness of the premium leather interior, delicately treated to provide utmost comfort. Additionally, the interior is equipped with a massage function, a fragrant ambiance, a surround sound system, and a refrigerated rear seat compartment to ensure a complete luxury experience.

As a hallmark of the brand, the Gallery, located in the front cabin, invites collectors into a different realm where they can admire timeless artworks. The Rolls-Royce logo is designed to appear as if it is floating and flowing within the Gallery, complementing the handcrafted analog clock, a testament to the skill of the artisans at Goodwood.

The trims of the Gallery display space remain a highlight in the interior, upholding the brand’s longstanding traditions.

The genuine Smoked Chestnut wood interior trim evokes a sense of tranquility and brings the car’s owner closer to nature. The Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with all the necessary features for work and entertainment, including a picnic table, rear seat entertainment screens, and Apple Carplay connectivity for smartphones.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom experience goes beyond driving and enjoying a glass of champagne in the rear seats. In fact, the feeling of gliding on a cloud, dubbed the “Magic Carpet Ride,” is achieved through an air suspension system with a capacity of up to 16 liters, combined with active suspension and self-adjusting springs that adapt every 5 thousandths of a second. Integrated with a navigation system, the car automatically selects the most suitable gear based on upcoming terrain, determined by a multitasking camera. Intelligent sensors continuously scan the road surface, stopping the car upon detecting potential dangers.

Every Rolls-Royce launched adheres to the guidelines set by Henry Royce, regardless of the generations that have passed.

Embodying the philosophy of “Strive for Perfection” as endorsed by Mr. Henry Royce, Rolls-Royce engineers at Goodwood are ceaselessly driven to conquer challenges. This time, their goal was to enhance the Phantom’s soundproofing capabilities. The brand aimed to create a serene and quiet space that would offer the driver and passengers the most luxurious and refined environment. Rolls-Royce invested heavily in the car’s frame structure, incorporating insulating and soundproofing pads with a thickness of up to 60 mm. In addition, the “Silent-Seal” tires, manufactured by Continental, feature specialized foam layers that reduce road noise entering the cabin by up to 9 decibels. As a result, the Phantom truly embodies the saying that “whispered words are the most powerful.”

With nearly a century of existence, the Rolls-Royce Phantom is no ordinary vehicle; it is a work of art, a bridge that creates great milestones not only in the lives of their owners but also for humanity. Rolls-Royce designers and engineers understand that perfection is an endless pursuit. Therefore, the Phantom continues its journey to achieve ultimate perfection. With such aspirations, this car will remain an irreplaceable part of history while maintaining its operational excellence for at least 400 years before being passed on to collectors.

NNP (Tuoitrethudo)