1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental Sportsman Coupe

The Phantom II was introduced in 1929 as a successor to the New Phantom (which later became known as the Phantom I). This was, reputedly, the last model Henry Royce designed himself.

The chassis was sent to Barker on December 12th of 1930 and given a body-style similar to the Experimental car, 26 EX. There was a supplementary fuel tank fitted in the frame and the gear lever was 3-inches longer than standard. The speedometer is in miles and kilometers. There are twin rear spares, friction shock absorbers, untarnishable finish brightwork, and a louvered hood.

The first owner was Captain Jack Frederick Conrad Kruse. It remained in his care for fewer than six months before it passed to R.H.W. Jaques of Easby Abbey, York and Down Street, Piccadilly.

Jaques entered the car on the 1932 RAC 1000 miles rally and the following year enlisted the aid of Margaret Allen (later Jennings) to contest the Monte Carlo Rally. Allen was one of the best known and successful lady drivers and one of only four women to hold a 120 mph Brooklands badge.

The car remained in Jaques care until his death. The next known owner is Thomas Neale in 1950. The current owner has retained the car for the past sixteen years. While in the current owner's possession, it was given a comprehensive rebuild that was begun by its owner. At the time, the speedometer read 83,000 miles.

The original all-black livery was changed in favor of a two-tone dark Brewster green and black.

In 2008, this Phantom II Continental Sportsman's Coupe was offered for sale at the 'Quail Lodge, A Sale of Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia' presented by Bonhams Auction. This was its first public offering for sale. It was estimated to sell for $800,000 - $1,200,000 but as the gavel fell for the third and final time, the lot was unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2008