Vehicle Description
The Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn model holds a rich history within the
illustrious lineage of Rolls-Royce automobiles. Introduced in 1949,
it marked a significant post-war milestone for the company, being
their first car to be manufactured entirely in-house. It was
renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, luxurious interiors
with high-quality materials and finishes, and powerful performance,
powered by a 4.3-liter inline-six engine. Like its sibling, the
sporty Bentley R-Type, it has direct steering and surprisingly
engaging driving dynamics, traditional styling, and old world
craftsmanship. Though roomy, with substantial rear legroom, these
are relatively compact cars by Rolls standards, measuring 196.5
inches nose-to-tail despite a ride comfort friendly 120 inch
wheelbase. This car, LSBA6, starting out as a factory test car, was
used by Rolls-Royce during the development of the Silver Dawn
model, and was used for promotional and demonstration purposes as
well, as in Prince Philip's tour in Monaco described below.
The 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Sport Saloon, 760 of which were
made between 1949 and 1955, is a classic luxury car that exudes
elegance and sophistication. It has a sleek and streamlined body
with a long hood and the classic grille, giving it a timeless and
iconic look. The interior is equally impressive, with luxurious
leather seats and wood paneling, creating a warm and inviting
atmosphere. The car is powered by a smooth and powerful engine,
providing a comfortable and effortless driving experience. Overall,
the 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Sport Saloon is a true classic
that represents the pinnacle of luxury and style from the post-war
era.
One aspect that adds to the allure of the Silver Dawn is its
rarity, particularly in left-hand drive (LHD) configuration, of
which only 150 were made. While the majority of Silver Dawns were
manufactured as right-hand drive (RHD) for the British market, the
limited number of LHDs were built for export, primarily destined
for the American market. Consequently, the LHD Silver Dawns became
highly sought-after by collectors, as their scarcity makes them
particularly desirable. The combination of the Silver Dawn's
prestigious heritage and the exclusivity of LHD models creates a
captivating blend of craftsmanship, history, and rarity, ensuring
their enduring appeal among enthusiasts and collectors
worldwide.
Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh, shared a fascinating
relationship with the British Royal Motor Fleet and its affiliation
with Rolls-Royce in the 1950s. As an avid motoring enthusiast,
Prince Philip actively participated in the selection and design of
vehicles for the royal family. He played a crucial role in
introducing modern, sleek designs and advanced technologies, such
as automatic transmissions and power steering. to the fleet, often
favoring Rolls-Royce cars for their elegance and superior
engineering.
In 1951, Prince Philip embarked on a tour of Monaco, a stop on the
Royal Navy Fleet's summer cruise, at the request of Prince Rainier.
(Note the photos of Prince Philip at this event by photographer
Edward Quinn.) Behind the wheel of this left-hand drive 1949
Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Saloon, registration/license plate number
LTV282, Prince Philip charmed the crowds with his regal presence
and unparalleled style. The choice of the Silver Dawn, a symbol of
opulence and elegance, perfectly matched the grandeur of the
occasion. This tour, his first official visit to the principality,
not only showcased his passion for automobiles but also
strengthened the bond between the British royal family and Monaco,
establishing Prince Philip as a true ambassador of British prestige
and flair
According to the chassis cards, the first owner of this Rolls-Royce
Silver Dawn was Richard Halliday, the husband of Mary Martin of
Broadway-Peter Pan and South Pacific- fame, who resided in
Grosvenor Square, London. It was later given to her as a birthday
present and driven by them throughout Europe for about a year
before being shipped to the USA...note the emblem of Peter Pan on
the rear doors.
Dr. Thomas Shoemaker III of Princeton, New Jersey, purchased the
car in 1964. It went to Ed Blumenthal, of New York and New Jersey,
in 1968, after being very briefly owned by by a clothing designer
in NYC who used it to ferry buyers from the garment district to his
factory in the Village. I've included photos of the car with a
Beatles-style psychedelic paint job taken by photographer Richard
Blair in April, 1968, near Yoko Ono's apartment at 87 Christopher
Street, which was next door to where he lived.
Under Blumenthal's ownership, the car underwent a meticulous
restoration process, during which every part of the body and
interior was removed and either refurbished or replaced. The car
was finally reassembled, re-trimmed, and completed in 1997. Since
then, it has won several concours awards, including the 1997
Greenwich Concours 'Elegance Debutante's Award, 1997 Burn
Foundation Concours d'Elegance Bethlehem Star Award (Best 1940s),
1998 Rolls-Royce Owners Club National Meet Concours Class 3rd
Place, 1998 Radnor Hunt Concours 'Elegance Rolls-Royce Class 2nd
Place, and 2001 Radnor Hunt Concours d'Elegance 'Most Elegant
Closed Car'.
The 2006 RROC directory shows Joseph Bolt of New Jersey as a
subsequent owner, bought from Bonham's in 2003. In 2007 to the Real
Car Company of England sold it to a a museum in the Middle East,
where it was on exhibit for sixteen years until we bought it.
This left-hand drive example with standard steel saloon bodywork
and 4-speed column-mounted factory manual transmission is finished
in a stunning burgundy/cream color scheme with with luxurious cream
colored upholstery and interior. It has a cam and roller steering
wheel, 16' wheels, hydraulic front brakes and rear servo assisted
mechanical brakes, a sunroof, picnic tables, and trafficator-style
turn signals. When we bought the car we recommissioned it with new
fluids, fuel pump, water pump, tires, and hoses as needed. The
automobile comes with all original tools, restoration invoices, a
copy of the build sheet files, and assorted press cuttings. As the
videos show, the car is in spectacular condition.
PLEASE BE SURE TO VIEW THE VIDEOS
