Another classic jewel, a 1924 Rolls Royce 40/50hp Silver Ghost Limousine, will go under the auctioneer’s block next month at Brookelands. The car is truly rare and offers significant historical value.
The spectacular concours model that has in the last few years been restored to an incredibly high standard, was originally owned by F.J. Ward, a rubber magnate. After it was taken from Rolls’ factory, the model received a new body by Arthur Mulliner of Northampton in the form of an enclosed drive limousine. The stunning body is painted in Black over Bright Blue and is in mint condition with no cracking, chipping or blemishes.
The engine was completely disassembled by Rolls Royce specialists Ristes of Nottingham, and rebuilt with an eye on quality rather than cost, as the total cost for the engine rebuild alone came to £64,000 ($105,000). The rebuilt engine has only traveled a few hundred miles and is still in the process of being run in.
Similar attention to detail was given to the chassis, braking system and every mechanical part on the car. The interior of the car has received the same level of attention, sporting front black leather seats with matching black leather inserts and embossed with a leaf motif. The leaf motif has been carried throughout the interior and embroidered in gold thread, to the doors and also roof lining (is this the equivalent of 1920s tuning?).
The chassis for Rolls-Royce “Silver Ghosts” were originally produced at Royce’s Manchester works, but then moved to Derby in July 1908 and between 1921 and 1926 at Springfield, Massachusetts factories. The model is estimated to fetch £140,000 ($223,000) when it hits the auctioneers block on December 4th.
