Vehicle Description
Introduced in 1925, the Rolls-Royce "New Phantom"-later known as
the Phantom I-represented a significant evolution from its
predecessor, the celebrated "Silver Ghost." Although the "Silver
Ghost" had already garnered a stellar reputation as "The Best Car
in the World," Henry Royce was meticulous about not diverging too
far from a winning formula. The new model retained similarities in
chassis design but featured a noteworthy upgrade under the hood.
The 7,668cc engine was equipped with a one-piece, detachable cast
iron cylinder head and pushrod-operated overhead valves, inspired
by the successful 20hp model. This configuration offered improved
efficiency and performance, while the separate engine and gearbox
design adhered to Royce's conservative engineering philosophy.
Writing of the "New Phantom" in May 1925, the British magazine, The
Autocar said: "As regards detail it is practically hopeless to go
into any one point, for there is not a single minor component of
the chassis which has not its interest and is not carried out in a
manner suggesting that the designers were able to deal with every
problem, great or small, unhampered by the possible cost of
solution, intent on making the best mechanism for the job in hand."
This 1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Enclosed Cabriolet, with custom
coachwork by Barker & Co., exemplifies the luxurious collaboration
between Rolls-Royce and one of its most esteemed coachbuilders.
Barker & Co. had a long-standing relationship with Rolls-Royce,
beginning from their transition from carriage builders to
automotive craftsmen. The enduring partnership led to numerous
iconic vehicles, including the original Silver Ghost and,
subsequently, the New Phantom. Barker's designs consistently met
the exacting standards of Rolls-Royce's elite clientele, blending
functionality with stately elegance. Our featured Phantom I was
commissioned by Alfred Loewenstein, a distinguished financier from
Belgium and one of the wealthiest men of his era. Loewenstein,
renowned for his investments in electric power and synthetic
textiles, required a car that matched his grand lifestyle. Barker
delivered an ingeniously engineered Cabriolet with multi-season
versatility. The car could transform from a fully enclosed saloon
with wind-up windows to a partially open Sedanca de Ville
configuration for chauffeur-driven comfort, or fully open for
leisure outings. Alfred Loewenstein's Phantom I is a fascinating
piece of automotive and historical significance. Delivered in 1926,
it was part of Loewenstein's opulent collection during his peak
years of financial success. His mysterious death in 1928, involving
a fall from his private Fokker aircraft over the English Channel,
added intrigue to his legacy and, by extension, to his cherished
Rolls-Royce. Lowenstein's Rolls survives him some 95 years later
owing to its careful preservation and sensitive restoration in a
series of sympathetic ownerships. It arrived in the USA in the
1960s, spending a long time with Californian owners, including time
with a Dick Lyon of Balboa. Mr. Lyon knew the immediate former
owner Charles Gillet very well having served in the Navy with him,
and Gillet had long admired the car. Ultimately, he was able to
make a takeover bid for it in the late 1980s. Gillet acquired the
Phantom in the late 1980s and undertook a meticulous restoration,
executed by White Post Restorations. It debuted at the Pebble Beach
Concours d'Elegance in 1991, earning the prestigious Lucius Beebe
Trophy. The car also secured AACA Grand National and CCCA Premier
awards, underscoring its exceptional condition and restoration
quality. Now, over 30 years post-restoration, the Phantom I
continues to impress. The elegant coachwork displays refined
paintwork, well-maintained brightwork, and a luxurious interior.
The under-hood detailing remains exquisite, a testament to the
craftsmanship and care invested over the decades. This Rolls-Royce
Phantom I Enclosed Cabriolet by Barker is a magnificent piece of
automotive history, cherished by a line of passionate owners and
restored to a high standard that still turns heads today. Its
illustrious provenance and superb craftsmanship make it a valuable
addition to any serious collection. The perfect blend of historical
intrigue, engineering brilliance, and elegance, it stands as a
remarkable example of 1920s luxury motoring. Offers Welcome and
Trades Considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7818-1926-rolls-royce-phantom-i-enclosed-cabriolet-by-barker-co/
