The 1960 Rolls-Royce Phantom V ‘Rivers’ Limousine, crafted by the renowned French atelier of Henri Chapron, stands as a testament to the pinnacle of bespoke luxury and craftsmanship. Offered without reserve at an estimated $40,000 to $60,000 USD, this extraordinary automobile carries with it a rich history, having been commissioned by the prominent Hollywood talent agent Marty Martyn and his wife, Margaret. Their meticulous involvement in the car’s design, down to the air-conditioning vents personally designed by Mrs. Martyn, resulted in one of the most unique Rolls-Royces ever created.
A Rolls-Royce Like No Other
Every Rolls-Royce Phantom V is a bespoke creation, but this particular model, designed by the American-born Osmond Rivers, formerly of British coachbuilders Hooper, stands out for its unparalleled attention to detail. The Martyns, deeply involved in the customization of their vehicle, ensured that no detail was overlooked. The result was a car that not only met their high expectations but also captured the attention of the world.
Henri Chapron’s workshop in France brought the Martyns’ vision to life, crafting a limousine that was as much a piece of art as it was a vehicle. The San Francisco Society columnist Herb Caen noted the care Mrs. Martyn took in maintaining the car, famously stating that she dusted the interior herself using a custom dustcloth made of imperial sables.
Unrivaled Luxury and Features
The Phantom V ‘Rivers’ Limousine is packed with luxurious features that were ahead of its time. Among its many opulent accoutrements are a built-in bar complete with crystal decanters, a three wave-length radio, a hidden umbrella slot, a drawer with a compact and make-up mirror, and an air-conditioned humidor for cigars. The car also, humorously noted by a wagging columnist, “has an engine,” a reminder that beyond its luxurious features, this was a fully functional and powerful automobile.
The Martyns received their custom Phantom V from Franco-Britannic Automobiles of Paris, and it was rumored to have cost them $54,000—a staggering sum that made it the most expensive automobile in the world at that time.
A Legacy of Elegance
The Phantom V ‘Rivers’ Limousine made its mark in the world of classic cars, beginning with its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 1961, where it won its class—a feat it repeated in 1962 and 1967. The car continued to accumulate accolades, including the Most Elegant Formal Car at the Rolls-Royce Owners Club Western Inter-Regional Meet in 1968 and the Hooper Trophy at the Western-California Meet in 1971.
After years of success on the show circuit, Mrs. Martyn gifted the car to the Petersen Automotive Museum, where it has been preserved in its original condition. The limousine retains most of its original accessories, including barware from Van Cleef & Arpels and Baccarat, and comes with a treasure trove of original factory spare parts, including book-matched veneers still in their original crates.
A Rare Opportunity
This unique Phantom V ‘Rivers’ Limousine, now offered without reserve, presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. The car’s next owner will inherit not only its storied past but also the responsibility of maintaining its impeccable condition. With its unmatched luxury, historical significance, and timeless elegance, the Phantom V ‘Rivers’ Limousine is a true masterpiece of bespoke automotive design.
Source: rmsothebys.com
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