Storied Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow with only one owner from new
6230cc V8 engine with 4-speed automatic transmission
Only 25,638 miles from new
Brand new MOT, valid until August 2024
Recently recommissioned after 20 years in storage
The Appeal
When it was introduced in 1965, the Silver Shadow was a model of revolution and modernisation. With new brakes, new Citroën-licensed suspension and a more efficient eye for interior space, the latest Roller was ‘the’ car for the new generation - a generation dominated by celebrities and the popular elite.
These beautiful, powerful and impressively-appointed cars were donned by everybody from Freddie Mercury to Princess Margaret, and quickly became a fixture in pop culture. If you think of a Rolls-Royce, it’s likely one of these that comes to mind.
This example, previously owned by the Watts family, was left parked in the garage at Chepstow’s Stroat House for some twenty years, having been used as a shopping chauffeur car for the owner’s wife. It was rediscovered in November 2021 and has since embarked upon a marvellous recommissioning effort, leaving its Mason Black paintwork shining like a pin.Photo 12-08-2023, 16 15 15.jpg3.43 MB
The History and Paperwork
Purchased from Howells Garages of Cardiff in 1969
Supplied to the Watts family along with three identical cars
From here, the car was reportedly kept largely as a chauffeured car for shopping trips
Upon the death of the owner the car was kept garaged for 20 years
In 2021, during an estate sale, the Chauffeur rediscovered the forgotten car
The car was then purchased by the vendor, who took the car in for recommissioning work
This included some mechanical work and a paint refresh
The work was completed in 2022 and now leaves the car in fine working order
MOT tested on the 15th August 2023
The car currently indicates 25,641 miles, which is warranted by its history
All restoration work has been undertaken by the vendor’s company to a high standard
The car’s paperwork file includes:
Original warranty card
A copy of the original Order Form
V5C document
An invoice for replacement external mirrors dated October 2021
We understand that the vendor also has a photographic record of the restoration
Exceptional interior that’s highly original throughout
Beige leather upholstery
Desirable Chippendale dashboard
Rear picnic tables
Original Smiths gauges and period controls
Black steering wheel
Beige luxury carpets with thick-pilled sheepskin rugs
When the car was discovered in its garage in 2021, the vendor informs us that the interior was ‘near-perfect’ and very much like a time capsule. That’s certainly reflected in the condition we find it in today.
With only the very slightest signs of use etched into its venerable leather, this car’s interior is a remarkable tribute to the luxury being provided by the legendary Crewe factory. There’s some slight pitting to the chrome, and the gentlest crease to the seats - but it’s largely immaculate.
The carpets and headlining are both in great condition, the wood trims - complete with rare Chippendale dashboard and picnic tables - are all present and correct, and we understand the boot to be in a similar level of repair.
With its iconic slab-sided bodywork, imposing grille and boxy proportions, the Silver Shadow is a simply iconic piece of British design. Finished in an exceptional Mason Black, with plenty of extensive chrome trims, this luxury car really is an impressive looker.
The car was discovered with some light areas of corrosion and wear, in line with over twenty years in a garage - so the vendor has undertaken a paint refresh and some work to present it in the fine fettle we see it today.
It’s a superb example through and through, with a tight panel fit and not a dent or ding we’ve been able to spot across the board.
Popping open the hood to this Rolls-Royce reveals a spectacular V8 engine that’s in very good shape. Highly original, with period labels still in situ, the car’s mechanics are very well presented. It’s all been recently recommissioned and serviced and, to our knowledge, is in good working order.
The brand-new MOT comes with only one minor defect for the rear outer drive-shaft boot being deteriorated and an advisory for a minor oil leak - though these aren’t egregious and are fairly par for the course for a Rolls-Royce of this seniority.
Beautifully presented, starting first time and with plenty of time before the MOT expires, this luxury car is bound to become a crown jewel for any enthusiast.
This is a highly impressive example of the legendary luxury car - one with an impressive history that can be easily traced, and plenty of originality both inside and out. We’ve no doubt that this car will prove to be an impressive addition to your fleet.
It’s incredibly rare that such a low-mileage, low-ownership and period-accurate motor comes to market.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
