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.
