1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Boattail Tourer

The Rolls-Royce 'New Phantom' was introduced in 1925, replacing the legendary and aging Silver Ghost. This new model was an evolution of the Ghost, with a new engine featuring overhead valves and a larger displacement of 7,668cc. Three years later, in 1928, an aluminum cylinder head was substituted for cast iron. When the Phantom II was later introduced in 1929, the 'New Phantom' became known as the Phantom I.

This Phantom I originally wore a Faux Cabriolet body by Thrupp & Maberly. It was delivered to either Prince David Mdivani, who married actress Mae Murray, or to his brother, Prince Serge, who was married to actress Pola Negri.

It was driven around the Hollywood area for many years. It was later purchased by S. Prestley Blake, a Rolls-Royce collecting and the founder of the Friendly Ice Cream restaurants. By this point in history, it had been re-bodied by FLM Panelcraft with this 4-seat Boattail Tourer coachwork. It is in the style of Barker. The hood is polished aluminum and there are flared clamshell fenders, a sloping boattail body, and rear aeroscreens. It is painted Burgundy with Black fenders and tan leather upholstery. There are side and top curtains for the front seat and a removable tonneau cover for the rear section.

It has several modern amenities such as a Mitchell overdrive and a rebuilt carburetor and piston rings. Other features include four-wheel servo-assisted brakes, wire wheels, and a polished aluminum bonnet.

In 2008, this car was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' auction presented by RM Auctions. It had an estimated value of $110,000 - $130,000 and carried a reserve. A high bid of $110,000 including the buyer's premium was enough to secure new ownership. The lot was sold.

In 2009, this Boattail Tourer was offered for sale at the Houston Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers and held in Seabrook, Texas. The lot was estimated to sell for $150,000 - $200,000. The lot was sold for $100,000, not including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2009