Chassis WOF30
- Delivered new to celebrated tenor and noted collector James
Melton
- Attractive and highly original example finished in taupe over
maroon with tan leather upholstery
- Retains its original decanter set, thermos, fold-out footrests,
and concealed rear armrest compartment
- Formerly part of the collection of respected enthusiast Roger
Morrison
For those who desired the finest motorcar money could buy,
Rolls-Royce offered the Silver Wraith. Built exclusively as a
rolling chassis and completed by independent coachbuilders, the
model served as the foundation for some of the most elegant and
luxurious automobiles of the postwar era. Its clientele included
royalty, captains of industry, and prominent entertainers, all
seeking a motorcar as individual as themselves.
Among the most respected coachbuilders entrusted with these
commissions was H.J. Mulliner, whose reputation for elegant design
and meticulous craftsmanship made them a natural choice for
Rolls-Royce's most prestigious clients. Their limousines combined
stately proportions with superb interior appointments, creating
motorcars that were equally suited to formal occasions and
effortless long-distance travel. By the early 1950s, the Silver
Wraith had become one of the most exclusive automobiles in the
world, with no two examples precisely alike.
Offered here is chassis WOF30, a highly charismatic 1952
Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Limousine by H.J. Mulliner with
fascinating provenance and remarkable originality. Significantly,
this very car was displayed on the H.J. Mulliner stand at the 1952
Earls Court Motor Show before earning First Prize at the 1952
International Motor Sports Show in New York. Such exhibition
history places WOF30 among a select group of Silver Wraiths that
served not merely as transportation, but as showcases of British
coachbuilding at its finest.
Following its show appearances, the Silver Wraith was delivered to
its first owner, famed tenor James Melton. One of the most
celebrated vocalists of his era, Melton was equally renowned for
his passion for automobiles and assembled one of America's most
significant collections of historic motorcars, including an early
Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost. Appropriately, when commissioning his new
Silver Wraith, no detail was overlooked.
The interior remains a wonderful reflection of that bespoke
commission. Finished in tan leather and beautifully appointed
woodwork, the cabin retains numerous special features specified for
its original owner. A concealed compartment remains housed within
the rear armrest, complete with its pigskin-covered accessories,
while the car also retains its decanter set, thermos, fold-out
footrests, and other thoughtful appointments. Years later,
correspondence between a subsequent owner and Melton's daughter
revealed family memories associated with the hidden compartment,
lending an unusually personal dimension to the car's history and
helping to connect the Silver Wraith directly to its original
owner.
Finished in an attractive two-tone scheme of taupe over maroon and
riding on wheel discs, the Rolls-Royce presents today as an honest
and highly evocative example. The interior exhibits visible age and
wear consistent with a motorcar that has been enjoyed and preserved
rather than comprehensively restored, contributing to an atmosphere
of authenticity that is increasingly difficult to replicate.
Importantly, the car remains mechanically sound and drives well,
allowing its next caretaker to experience the quiet, effortless
motoring for which Rolls-Royce became famous.
Previously part of the collection of noted enthusiast Roger
Morrison, WOF30 offers a rare combination of documented provenance,
show history, bespoke coachwork, and remarkable originality. More
than simply a Rolls-Royce, it is a fascinating survivor from an era
when the world's finest automobiles were built to the precise
specifications of their owners. Whether appreciated as a
chauffeur-driven limousine or enjoyed from behind the wheel, this
Silver Wraith remains a compelling testament to Rolls-Royce
craftsmanship and the golden age of custom coachbuilding.
Offers welcome and trades considered.
