Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection debuts at Pebble Beach Quail
In addition to the business of making very expensive and exclusive cars, the Rolls-Royce brand, albeit under a separate business entity, is also a major player in the aviation industry. Celebrating that connection, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has launched the Phantom Coupé Aviator Collection.
In the words of RR’s own press release, ‘the collection celebrates the spirit of human endeavour that drove a very British hero (co-founder Charles Stewart Rolls) and subsequently led Rolls-Royce to simultaneous world speed records on land, air and in the water.’
The first out of 35 units to be built will be displayed at the Pebble Beach Quail gathering in the US which commences today. Its exterior is finished in Aviator Grey paint, contrasted with a matte bonnet, window, and grille surround.
The interior further carries the aviation theme with an interplay of wood and metal that invokes memories of old-style wooden planes. The Thommen aviation-grade clock and array of matte black dials further drive home the message. Moving down, we find a mahogany-veneered lower fascia with Sapele contrast as per the old prop-planes.
The leather-lined glove compartment includes an embossed Charles Rolls quote following his first flight with the Wright Brothers in 1908, “The power of flight is as a fresh gift from the Creator, the greatest treasure yet given to man.”
A centre console chrome plaque describes Rolls – only the second man in Britain to hold a pilot’s licence – simply as Pioneer Aviator, below a representation of his sweeping signature.
KON
