One of 27 examples of this handsome design built by James Young on the Silver Wraith chassis, of which 13 were fitted with a division window, Silver Wraith chassis no. WOF23 was exhibited on Young’s stand at the 1951 Earls Court Motor Show, as noted in Bernard L. King’s Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn and Silver Wraith. It was subsequently delivered in July of that year to Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd., the well-known British contracting firm whose leaders were longstanding Rolls-Royce clients in good standing, as noted in period registration documents.

The Rolls-Royce is lavished with fine detail, with doors that flare at the bottoms to cover the running boards, and sumptuous leather upholstery and spectacularly beautiful fine woodwork within. All is proper, with the exception of a modern radio discreetly hidden in the dashboard fascia. The rear compartment is complete with a period electric teakettle and china service for two, enabling a cup of Earl Grey to be served off the picnic tables. For days that require something stronger, there are also fitted flasks and rocks tumblers, as well as a second concealed set that includes a martini shaker, and a traveling bar in a leather case. The rear seat armrest conceals ladies accessories, including a sterling silver comb and hairbrush. Also accompanying are the proper sets of road and hand tools.

Well detailed and prepared, this is one of the Calumet Collection’s owner’s favorite automobiles in his stable, which shows in its presentation and level of quality. It is a showpiece, which would be well suited to chauffeuring special guests in all the comforts of home.