Highlights
- Just three former registered keepers
- First owned by a Second World War Spitfire pilot
- Meticulous service history by Rolls-Royce at Crewe for 28 years and latterly with independent specialists
- Recent brake service, suspension system checks and carburettors overhauled
- Original Willow Gold colour and Champagne interior, a unique and striking colour scheme
- Always garaged and beautifully maintained
- Tax and MOT exempt
The Appeal
The Silver Shadow was a new type of Rolls-Royce, the firm's first monocoque car and one aimed firmly at the new era of 'owner drivers.' It was so well engineered and beloved by customers that its basic architecture underpinned Rolls-Royce saloons into the late 1990s.
The Silver Shadow II lightly overhauled the styling with revised bumpers and there was also sharper steering. But with such a compelling blend of luxury and comfort little else needed changing.
It is exceptionally rare to discover a Silver Shadow with such good provenance as this one. Acquired new by a former WWII Spitfire pilot - a man who had trusted his life to Rolls-Royce engineering in the skies - this Silver Shadow was his pride and joy for life. It was bequeathed on his death to his friend, the previous owner who had known the car since it left the showroom.
We’re assured that it has been maintained with all the love and care that the extensive history file suggests, first by Rolls Royce at Crewe for 28 years and then latterly by just two independent specialists. It has always been garaged.
Recently treated to some brake, suspension and carburettor work it is in wonderful, original condition. This is one of the best and certainly amongst the most highly cherished Silver Shadows we've seen recently and looks ready for a new owner to lavish the same care upon it.
The History and Paperwork
- The vehicle has always been garaged and kept under a cover
- Originally owned by former WWII Spitfire pilot - the car was bought by his company for his personal use and he then acquired the car from his company
- Has only changed hands once, from the original owner to the vendor, a close friend, around 12 years ago
- Maintained by Rolls-Royce in Cheshire for the first 28 years
- Then looked after by a retired Rolls-Royce engineer who had apprenticed on Silver Shadows at Crewe
- Most recently serviced and maintained by JK Engineering in Biggleswade
- Extensive history file attesting to this fastidious history
- Always garaged by both previous owners
- The vendor has covered just three miles during their brief custodianship and they are now relocating to Spain
- All keepers have prioritised maintaining the factory specification, right down to choice of tyres
The Condition
- No signs of corrosion, indicating the vehicle has been well protected from the elements
- Retains original panels in excellent condition with minor professional blemish repairs conducted over the years
- Original panels still display the distinct Willow Gold colour, which has been well maintained
- Nearly new factory specification Avon tyres showing plenty of tread
- Classic Champagne interior, very reminiscent of the era when this car was new
- Retains all the original trim, including lambswool mats and footrests
- A minor blemish on the wood top trim has been retained as a memory of the previous owner
- Little to no signs of wear, indicating meticulous care and minimal usage
- Original tool box with spare bulbs and fuses
The Mechanics
- 6.75-litre V8 engine
- Automatic gearbox
- Reportedly runs beautifully, indicating well-maintained mechanical condition
- Recent servicing of dual brakes with new pads, control valves, and accumulators
- Brake pump and twin carburettors stripped, cleaned, serviced, and re-tuned in March 2023
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
