Vehicle Description
Words cannot describe this stunning 1953 Silver Wraith Touring
Limousine by HJ Mulliner. Finished in black with light tan (beige)
Connolly leather upholstery fashioning everything in a very
original and restored manner. Recently acquired from an estate of a
wealthy industrialist, where the owner was an avid (and life-time)
collector of Rolls-Royces, this Wraith is one in very original
condition and perhaps amongst the best out of the collection. Its
most recent owner purchased the car in 1985 and had been part of
his private collection since. It was delivered new in February 1953
by a J.H. Riley from Stroud Riley Ltd in London who also owned
WDC10 (HJM 7062 4dr/4lt touring limousine), WFC41 (same) and WSG27
(Park Ward 144 4dr/6lt saloon). The car today still displays its
original UK number plates; NLC835. It is very rare for the 7249 to
have no full- or half-division. The seating style, with plain
cushions and pleated and bolstered squabs, is known as 'Renillum'
which is the Mulliner name spelt backwards. Body and paint is
excellent with no known repaint during the industrialist's
ownership. She presents very smooth and lustrous with only the
typical blemishes and imperfections you can normally expect of such
an older car, albeit well maintained. She is finished off with
off-white fine lines the side coach-work in the correct hand
painted tradition. Chrome, glass and fitting all present well. The
interior is simply stunning with all its original fitments. The
Renillum style Connolly leather is supple soft with only modest
signs of aged hides. She does show all the lovely signs of gentle
use and the warm "patina" that makes these Rolls-Royce interiors
what they are (The word "patina" is used literally here, and not as
a means to explain old dry and cracked leather!). The African burl
walnut wood throughout is in nice condition but not perfect with
hairlines in the lacquer showing. We were in 2-minds about
refinishing because of its originality so if you are keen on
perfection, please enquire as we are in-house experts in
Rolls-Royce wood refinishing. Carpets are good and the headliner
without wear albeit some very light soiling in some areas.
Mechanically, the car is superb. She sings like the best should
sing and always come to life when called upon. Recently put through
Park-Ward's fully appointed facility with anything needing doing
attended to. This aside, the car was excellent to commence with. As
testimony, we received the car after more than 5 years of her not
being started. After doing all the necessary commissioning
procedures, she fired up instantaneously and held a steady idle
like she was warmed up only moments previously. So very impressive!
She idles very smooth, powers well and handles the road comfortably
and straight. She comes to a stand still true and strong. The tyres
on the car are period correct whitewalls but they are old (+/- 25
years old). Long distance driving on these would not be recommended
but are perfectly fine for pottering around and show work. We left
them, as they are all so "original" in presentation and the perfect
fitment for museum display. Under the bonnet, the presentation is
amazing. It has not been precision detailed but simply kept clean
and tidy throughout its life. Simply stunning! As you would expect,
this Silver Wraith comes with its original accoutrements and
operating manual. The car is of very high standard and is an
undisputable 10 out of 10 driver rating and a true Preservation
class show car. More info: www.park-ward.com
