This information is not in the factory brochure.
The sky is the limit for many luxury cars. It’s not unusual for buyers to customize a vehicle from a third-party shop. After it was discovered that the interior of this Rolls-Royce Phantom had been upholstered with leather from an endangered crocodile, Italian customs took possession of the vehicle.
Although this Phantom is not the first time we have seen it with rare-earth materials, this is still a remarkable example. Contrary to the monstrosity of the Phantom, both Hermes leather as well Hawaiian Koa wood are perfectly legal.
Rumours suggest that the Phantom’s reupholstered upholstery was imported from Russia to Italy. It would have gone unnoticed and been headed to an exotic car dealership in Rome to resold. It was confiscated by customs because it was considered too exotic.
The new interior was clearly added by an aftermarket shop, and not certified by Rolls-Royce. Apart from its poor fit and finish the crocodile has been listed as a protected species by the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Contrary to popular belief goods can legally be made from crocodile or alligator leather. To use the material in any of the 160 countries it covers, including Italy, you must obtain a clearance certificate from CITES. Although the court will not rule on the case, fines could be imposed upon the owner of the vehicle.
We are not able to provide much information, but we would recommend the factory leather accessories available from Rolls-Royce. We’d love to hear your opinions on the interior croc-leather.