Former show car at The Earls Court Motor Show of 1953
Bought new by Geraldo Bright - popular '30s dance band leader
Elegant coachwork by Hooper, coachbuilders for the Royal Family since 1945
Only 35,000 miles covered by 1995 when the vendor acquired the car from the Bright family
The Appeal
For over a hundred years, the name "Rolls-Royce" has been synonymous with success. The act of purchasing one of these fine motor cars shows all around you that you've made it. A Rolls is a statement symbol par excellence - so you often find that any given classic example has been owned by someone notable.
Take this rather elegant Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith for example. After the stylish bodywork was completed by Hooper, this car was displayed at the 1953 Earls Court Motor Show where it caught the eye of famous band leader Geraldo Bright - known simply as 'Geraldo' to his fans. Following his death in 1974, the car remained in the family and was acquired by the vendor in 1995. Since then, 'Geralodo Prince', (as the car is affectionately dubbed), has been part of their wedding hire fleet, playing a key role in many couples' special day.
With such an important role to play, the Rolls-Royce has been well-maintained which is evidenced in a series of invoices and notes which accompany the car. The vendor has also attained the factory build which make for some fascinating reading.
History and Paperwork
Registered in 1952
Purchased by Geraldo, famous band leader, at The Earls Court Motor Show of 1953
Remained with the Geraldo family until 1995
Covered only 35,000 miles by 1995
The odometer now displays 84,844 miles
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
Copy of the factory build records included in the sale - these are remarkably detailed and provide further fascinating insights into the Hooper bodywork
Significant invoice from 2020 details extensive work
The Condition
This car presents very well throughout and appears in fine condition for its age
Rakish bodywork by Hooper & Co
Two-tone scheme: ivory body contrasted with gloss black wings and roof
Whitewall tyres complement the two-tone scheme and are appropriate for the era
Large chrome headlights in very good visual order
Kneeling 'Spirit of Ecstasy'
Besides light age-commensurate patia, the interior looks remarkably good
Contra opening doors allow easy access to a spacious and luxurious cabin
Parchment leather interior in smart order with no heavy wear
Matching lamb’s wool carpeting
Exquisite walnut woodwork with intricate marquetry
Equipped with a cocktail cabinet
The Mechanics
4,257 cc straight-six
Four-speed manual gearbox
The vendor includes a copy of the maintenance schedule
Significant brake overhaul in 2020 and new rear springs were also fitted
Extensive electrical system overhaul, also in 2020
We understand the Rolls-Royce to be in very good running and driving order
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:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
