1953 Rolls-Royce Wraith

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