By 1959, Rolls-Royce had discovered that as smooth, silent, and Swiss-watch-reliable as its inline six-cylinder engine really was, the great mill was at the end of its lifespan. Accordingly, the company replaced its original Silver Cloud model with the Silver Cloud II. Under the hood of this new offering was a 380-cubic inch V-8 engine, which was built to a sophisticated design by using numerous lightweight components. It was mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and came with power brakes, power-assisted steering, a radio, whitewall tires, and updated climate-control systems.

The SCII, as it is known to enthusiasts, was in production for four years. Scarcest were the long-wheelbase models—measuring 127 inches between the axles—which were fitted with an extended version of the factory “steel saloon” bodywork. These featured additional legroom to the rear compartment, a large walnut bulkhead behind the front seat, and, more often than not, a division window; the combination of all these features essentially created a limousine, which was nicknamed the “Baby Phantom.”

Of the 2,717 Silver Cloud II chassis produced, only 299 were the long-wheelbase version, marking them as one of the rarest Rolls-Royces models of their era.

The Limousine offered here was originally delivered through London dealer Jack Barclay to F. Musson, Esq., of London and Greenwich, who specified that the Rolls be equipped with electric windows, Lucas fender-mounted mirrors, Avon whitewall tires, and combined parking/driving lights above each door pillar, as well as a power-operated division window. The car was originally finished in Shell Grey over Black Pearl, with blue leather upholstery, as it still is today. It was repainted some years ago and still shows well. The interior remains original and has a lovely patina.

The Rolls was owned by its current caretaker for nearly a decade, during which time it was driven only 5,000 miles, which is included in its 98,000 actual miles. It is accompanied by comprehensive Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club build documentation, including engine, chassis, and body test sheets that cover virtually every phase of the car’s construction and delivery, and all original service manuals and receipts from the present owner’s conservatorship. The owner reports that the only work that the car has required was a fuel pump rebuild, which was performed by a skilled mechanic; it has otherwise driven and performed quite well.

Wonderful, desirable, and eminently usable for elegant transportation, this beautiful Silver Cloud II represents the best combination of traditional British craftsmanship and modern engineering.