Only 21 of the V-12-powered Phantom IIIs were produced with American coachwork, most all by J.S. Inskip, the renowned East Coast Rolls-Royce importers and distributors. Inskip had succeeded the former Brewster coachworks that had been the most prominent builders of bodies for American Rolls-Royce chassis, and their former employees continued to build custom coachwork in the former Brewster facilities in very small amounts under Inskip’s name. These bodies were strongly influenced, for obvious reasons, by late Brewster designs, in their detailing and trim, including door handles and hinges.

Chassis no. 3AZ190, offered here, was the first U.S.-bodied Phantom III produced, imported via SS Laconia and fitted with a special five-passenger limousine body by Inskip for wealthy haberdashery importer Edward W. Bill of Stamford, Connecticut. Distinguishing features of the design include a sloping roofline, low at the windshield, that produces an exceptionally well-balanced and sporting look. Subsequent owners were William W. Walsh, followed by Robert D. French of Houston; Julio Zamagni of Lakewood, Colorado; and Carl Wells of Racine, Wisconsin. Prior to its acquisition for the Calumet Collection, it was featured in the Oscar-winning 2006 film, Pan’s Labyrinth.

More recently the car has undergone a significant amount of cosmetic and mechanical restoration for the Calumet Collection, including beautiful inlaid wood veneers by Madeira Concepts (to the original level of gloss), and fresh upholstery with leather to the driver’s compartment and broadcloth upholstery to the rear seat. Handsome Ace wheel discs are mounted, as are Lucas headlamps and center driving light. The engine and drivetrain have been sorted and detailed to a high standard but not fully restored, and are reported to function well, with the car starting, running, and driving properly. As noted by marque expert Diane Brandon, the Rolls is fitted with a single carburetor, as usually mounted to later Phantom II chassis, as well as a radiator overflow tank to improve its durability for modern touring, and a rooftop ventilation door. The car is offered with a selection of Phantom III literature and an original owner’s handbook.

This is a lovely and very rare Phantom III of distinguished fine quality and exceptionally handsome American styling and would be a fine highway touring automobile for a new owner.