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
