For Sale: 1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom I in Saint Louis, Missouri

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