Vehicle Description
Since its establishment in 1904, Rolls-Royce rapidly became a
symbol of luxury, innovation, and exceptional engineering. Known
for setting the benchmark in automotive excellence, the brand's
dedication to building "the best car in the world" has created a
long-lasting legacy of iconic models admired by royalty,
celebrities, and collectors around the world. By the late 1920s,
Rolls-Royce was leading the charge in a rapidly evolving car
industry. The Phantom II, introduced in 1929, carried on the
tradition of its predecessors, such as the New Phantom and Silver
Ghost, and served as the marque's flagship model for six years.
Powered by a 7.7-liter six-cylinder engine, which was more advanced
than the unit used in the Phantom I, it featured numerous technical
improvements like a crossflow cylinder head and better exhaust
systems, which contributed to higher performance and smoother
operation. Rolls-Royce didn't focus on horsepower figures,
preferring instead to let the car's exceptional refinement speak
for itself. The revised chassis also offered better handling and
ride comfort, giving coachbuilders more freedom to create sleeker,
lower-profile designs. In developing the Phantom II, Sir Henry
Royce envisioned a model suited for the high-speed driving demands
of European roads. Collaborating with engineer Ivan Evernden, they
developed a sportier version of the Phantom II, later known as the
Continental. It featured modifications like a shorter chassis,
higher spring rates, and a lower floor, all designed for more
dynamic touring capabilities. The Continental's concept began with
chassis 26EX, which debuted with a special saloon body by Barker &
Co., winning accolades at prestigious events such as the Concours
d'Elegance of Biarritz. While there wasn't a fixed factory
specification for the Continental variant, Rolls-Royce built around
281 Continental chassis, representing only about 17% of total
Phantom II production, making these models especially rare and
highly coveted by collectors today. As the final evolution of the
Phantom II, the TA-series embodied all the advancements Rolls-Royce
had made since the model's introduction in 1929. The TA was the
last series produced before the transition to the Phantom III, with
just fifteen Continental chassis built in this exclusive run.
Inarguably one of the most sought-after designs on the Rolls-Royce
Phantom II Continental chassis is Chelsea coachbuilder J. Gurney
Nutting's "Owen" drophead sedanca coupe, carrying the name of the
important London dealer who was purportedly involved in its
creation. The lines of this body were beyond compare, including an
extremely long hoodline, a sweeping curved beltline molding,
flowing open fenders, and a relatively short stern carrying the
signature Gurney Nutting trunk and rear-mounted spares. The Owen
drophead sedanca coupe would, in time, rightfully come to be
considered the quintessential Phantom II Continental, best
representing the chassis' balanced combination of performance and
elegance. Sold new through HR Owen Ltd. in London, chassis 179TA is
one of the 18 original Owen drophead sedanca coupes. It was
delivered in 1935 to Sir Albert Edward Harry Mayer Primrose, the
6th Earl of Rosebery, a prominent figure in Scottish nobility. His
home in Edinburgh provided the backdrop for this grand automobile,
originally finished in black. Over the years, 179TA passed through
a series of notable owners, including Miss Eleanor Christian Sharp
of Dundee, and later, Michael Eddowes, a British military officer
stationed in Florida. The car continued its journey across the
Atlantic, making its way to the U.S., where it changed hands
several times, including ownership by Charles Hedstrom in Michigan
and William G. Parfait in Colorado. During its time in the Otis
Chandler Museum in Los Angeles, 179TA was a centerpiece, admired
for its historical significance and timeless beauty. The car later
entered the care of Boone W. LaGrange, and then Robert Thomas
Martin Jr., before returning to the UK under the ownership of
Malcolm E. Ginna. Today, chassis 179TA has been beautifully
restored under previous ownership to the correct, delivery
specification of black with matching black wire wheels,
complemented by a rich fawn leather interior, and the car retains
its original coachwork and engine. The motorcar was restored and
prepared for the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, although
logistical challenges prevented its participation, the car remains
in concours-ready condition, a testament to the quality of its
restoration. This striking transformation accentuates the Gurney
Nutting coachwork's refined lines, while maintaining the car's
imposing presence and sophistication. The expertly restored
interior is both spacious and luxuriously appointed, offering
exceptional comfort for all passengers. Gurney Nutting's meticulous
craftsmanship is evident in every detail, with each feature
thoughtfully designed and positioned. The cabin, finished in
elegant tan leather, complemented by restored walnut wood trim and
polished metal accents, provides a tranquil and indulgent
experience for both driver and passengers alike. Beneath the hood,
the Phantom II Continental is equipped with its original engine,
Rolls-Royce's powerful 7.7-liter inline-six engine, delivering
smooth and effortless performance. Its abundant torque ensures easy
acceleration even at low speeds. Paired with a sophisticated
suspension system that includes semi-elliptical springs and
hydraulic shock absorbers, the car offers a refined yet responsive
ride. This blend of power and precision makes the Phantom II
Continental a delight to drive, whether on bustling city streets or
leisurely countryside roads. Rolls-Royce's dedication to
documentation and meticulous records means that 179TA's history is
well-preserved, providing collectors with a comprehensive
understanding of its provenance. This car's journey, from its
Scottish origins to its time in prestigious U.S. collections,
exemplifies the enduring appeal of the Phantom II Continental. With
its rare TA-series Continental chassis, original Gurney Nutting
Sedanca Coupe body, and distinguished ownership history, 179TA is a
stunning representation of pre-war Rolls-Royce craftsmanship and a
true asset to any discerning collection of classic automobiles.
Offering the perfect combination of luxury, speed, and refinement,
it stands out not only for its striking design but also for its
rich provenance and extensive documentation. Supported by an active
owner's club and built for high-performance touring, the Phantom II
Continental was designed to be driven, offering a unique
opportunity for enthusiasts to experience Rolls-Royce at its
finest. Offers welcome and trades considered. For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7788-1935-rolls-royce-phantom-ii-continental-owen-sedanca-coupe/
