Vehicle Description
Introduced in 1955, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud and Bentley S1
succeeded the Silver Dawn and R-Type respectively. The six-cylinder
Silver Cloud gave way to the Silver Cloud II and S2 that debuted in
1959 as the first Rolls-Royce motorcars equipped with V-8 power.
Toward the end of 1962, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III and
Bentley S3 heralded mainly cosmetic changes, the most obvious being
a new four-headlamp frontal treatment. Mechanical advancements for
the Silver Cloud III/S3 included a compression increase to 9.0:1
for the aluminum block-and-head 6.2-liter V-8 engine and enlarged
S.U. carburetors delivering a corresponding and welcome output
boost of an estimated twenty additional horsepower. The Silver
Cloud III and S3 also included such standard features as a
four-speed automatic gearbox derived from GM's renowned
Hydra-Matic, plus power-assisted brakes, a radio, and a heater.
Incredibly smooth and world-famous for nearly silent operation, the
Silver Cloud III and S3 set new standards for luxury automobiles, a
reputation that continues uninterrupted today. For its part, the
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III sold quite well with 2,809 examples
produced in all to October 1965, comprising 2,555 with the standard
123-inch wheelbase chassis and 254 long-wheelbase (127-inch)
models. While a limited number of bespoke bodies were created by
such distinguished British coachbuilders as Mulliner, Park Ward,
and James Young, the standard four-door Saloon, if the word
"standard" could ever apply to Rolls-Royce, was the model of choice
for the era's growing crop of wealthy businesspeople and
entertainers, particularly in the burgeoning American marketplace.
One such buyer was Ronald L. Fredianelli, the singer, songwriter,
and comedian best known by his stage name Ronnie Gaylord, who first
owned this Silver Cloud III, numbered LSCX 639. According to copies
of the original factory chassis records on file, LSCX 639 is an
original U.S.-market Silver Cloud III and as offered, it remains an
outstanding, low-mileage example that clearly benefits from years
of specialist care and maintenance. Finished in two-tone livery
comprising Tudor Gray and Shell Gray paintwork over Scarlet
Connolly Vaumol leather upholstery, the colors it retains today,
LSCX 639 was equipped with factory-original options including
Sundym glass, electric windows, a radio with Delco aerial,
Firestone whitewall tubeless tires, and rich Cherry Red lambswool
rugs. Shipped to San Francisco, California on March 29, 1963,
LSCX639 was eventually purchased via William Harrah's
distributorship in Reno, Nevada by Mr. Fredianelli, with the
factory warranty issued on May 23, 1965. Title records on hand
confirm that Mr. Fredianelli (Gaylord) retained his Silver Cloud
until 1989, having covered just 26,337 miles. That year, he sold it
to Vantage Motorworks of North Miami, Florida, widely recognized as
the premier Rolls-Royce/Bentley specialists in the United States.
Upon arrival at Vantage's workshop, LSCX 639 was an exceptionally
well-preserved original car, and a superb base for Vantage's team
to restore to their usual level of excellence. Work included a
complete exterior repaint in the correct factory colors,
refinishing of the interior wood veneers, chrome replating, and
fitment of new Wilton I wool carpets. It was sold to a local
client, and returned to Vantage for replacement of the original
generator with an alternator and the installation of a modern
air-conditioning compressor. Further work included the installation
of a second limousine-type air conditioner unit in the trunk and an
upgraded stereo system. Vantage Motorworks sold LSCX 639 in 2007,
and the car has seen limited use in a private collection since. It
currently shows just 35,800 miles, which is believed to be genuine.
As offered, this Silver Cloud III Saloon is one of the finest
driving and best presented examples we've encountered. It runs and
drives beautifully, with the refinement and poise expected from a
Silver Cloud, with recent service work including comprehensively
overhauled brake hydraulics. Documentation includes copies of the
factory chassis card, previous ownership history, and service
records, and desirable accompanying items include the original
boot-mounted tool kit and handbook. Beautifully restored and ready
for enjoyment by a true Rolls-Royce collector and enthusiast, LSCX
639 is simply one of the best Cloud IIIs available, resplendent in
its handsome and desirable original colors. A long history of
expert care renders this very fine, low-mileage luxury motorcar
ready for continued touring pleasure. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7285-1965-rolls-royce-silver-cloud-iii-saloon/
