This Car

This is an unusually significant Silver Wraith II, combining exceptionally low mileage and superb presentation with a fascinating ownership history and the particularly rare addition of factory-fitted division. Of the 2,135 Silver Wraith IIs produced, just 128 were equipped with division, making this an especially desirable specification.

Originally commissioned by Sir Charles Clore, the British financier, retail and property magnate who famously acquired Selfridges, the car was ordered through Jack Barclay as a replacement for his Rolls-Royce Phantom VI. Its first owner therefore set an appropriately distinguished precedent for a car of this specification.

The most notable option was the electrically operated glass division, separating the driver from the rear passengers and providing the privacy and sense of occasion expected of a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. Rear occupants also benefited from independent air conditioning and a separate radio, creating a genuinely private and luxurious travelling environment.

Further factory options included rear armrests with hinged lids, reading lights for the rear passengers and additional seat padding, all contributing to an exceptionally comfortable environment for those travelling in the rear.

Another particularly notable custodian was His Excellency Kamal Adham, the prominent Saudi businessman and former head of Saudi Arabia's intelligence service, marking another fascinating chapter in the car's distinguished history.

Most recently, the car has remained in private ownership since 2006. During that time it has been regularly serviced and maintained, initially by Axtell Ltd of Bramley and, since 2021, by ourselves.

Today, the car presents in exceptional condition. The paintwork remains beautifully preserved, the chrome is bright and well presented, while the interior has an exceptionally original and cared-for appearance. Particularly impressive are the lambswool over-rugs, which remain in outstanding condition and give a wonderful indication of the care lavished upon the car throughout its life.

Following the recent passing of its long-term custodian, this rare Rolls-Royce is now being offered to the market, providing a new custodian with the opportunity to acquire an unusually well-preserved Silver Wraith II with genuinely distinguished provenance.

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This Model

Introduced in 1977, the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II represented the ultimate expression of the marque's traditional luxury saloon. Based upon the Silver Shadow II, it was distinguished principally by its extended wheelbase, providing substantially greater accommodation for rear-seat passengers and creating an especially spacious and serene environment, complimented by the extra privacy offered by the rear opera window.

The Silver Wraith II was conceived with the chauffeur-driven owner in mind, and its characterful proportions, sumptuous interior and exceptional levels of refinement made it particularly well suited to those who valued travelling in comfort and discretion. The model's distinctive styling incorporated a raised roofline and smaller rear windows, giving the Silver Wraith II a more formal appearance than the standard Silver Shadow.

Power came from Rolls-Royce's renowned 6.75-litre V8, delivering the effortless performance and near-silent progress for which the marque was renowned. As with all Rolls-Royce motor cars of the period, the emphasis was firmly on refinement rather than outright performance.

Production continued until 1980, making the Silver Wraith II a relatively short-lived and increasingly sought-after member of the Silver Shadow family. Today, well-preserved examples offer a particularly compelling combination of traditional Rolls-Royce craftsmanship, imposing presence and exceptional rear-seat comfort.

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Summary

Silver Wraith IIs are rarely offered in this condition, and examples equipped with factory-fitted division are rarer still. Add to this the exceptionally low mileage, superb presentation and a fascinating history that includes Sir Charles Clore and Kamal Adham, and this is an unusually compelling example of Rolls-Royce's most formal Silver Shadow derivativea, a magnate magnet if you will.

Opportunities to acquire a Silver Wraith II of this specification and provenance seldom present themselves. We welcome enquiries and would be delighted to show the car to prospective custodians at our Betchworth showroom.

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