Rolls-Royce will transform a fallen tree into a picnic table if it falls in the woods.
Jack Boyd Smith, Jr., is a billionaire. His tastes are not only influenced by excess, but also the stories behind extravagant items. A 1934 Packard Twelve Coupe and an heirloom family item – a rocking chair made from koawood – are two examples of such items that inspired the latest member of Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke collection , the Koa Wood Phantom Extension.
This unique Phantom with long wheelbase is painted Packard Blue, according to Smith’s input. It matches the 1934 Twelve Coupe. Rolls-Royce developed the shade after Smith Jr. sent a fender to the Bespoke team at Goodwood from his pre-war two-door. It wasn’t easy to get the color on the Phantom’s slab-sided side.
Rolls-Royce tested 40 different surfaces before settling on a paint formulation that was consistent with the original shade. Then, the paint was applied to the Phantom Extended. The exterior features include the addition of monograms to the front doors, which Smith and Laura received, and subtle details on the blue wheel caps. The Spirit of Ecstasy is made of solid sterling silver.
The interior is the centerpiece of this Bespoke Phantom. It’s not a matter of wood here, and wood everywhere – this cabin has as much wood as Rolls-Royce can fit. It’s not only on the dash but also on the steering wheel spokes and arm rests. The rear center console is where you’ll find a fridge and champagne flutes (also with the monogram of the wealthy).
Koa wood is a rare species, and it grows only on the Hawaiian Islands. It is found mostly in national parks or state parks. The wood that can be harvested is only found on private land. Rolls-Royce obtained the wood for this car from a private collection. The company’s wood specialist worked with the owner to negotiate the purchase of the koa tree. Rolls-Royce couldn’t settle on just a few planks because the nature of this project meant that the car needed a full log from a tree Mother Nature had to fall. This part took three years.
The images prove that the wait was worth it. Rolls-Royce does not build cars with poor woodwork. But the Bespoke Phantom is, pun intended, a step above. The Koa Phantom is a great example of why wood has been used in luxury cars for more than 100 years. The Koa Phantom required a full log. To make a Rolls-Royce-caliber “picnic hamper”, the Smiths used the material along with premium saddle leather and stainless-steel.
It might be tempting to stare at the 60-strong collection of Phantom and Smith vehicles, which are spread over two buildings in Elkhart. Indiana, and imagine them collecting dust for years. But don’t worry. It will be a great asset to the Smith family.
“I drive the cars. I love driving cars. Smith Jr. said that sometimes I drive the car to work, then take another car to lunch and then return home in a third vehicle.