1973 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Chassis no. SRX15714

1973 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Chassis no. SRX15714 - Delivered new in Switzerland - Original left-hand drive - Swiss registration document Even in the mid 1950's, when the Rolls Royce Silver Cloud was launched, it still managed to feel a bit... pre-war. Despite that the Silver Cloud soldiered on in mark I, II and III guises until 1966, by which time it seemed positively Jurassic compared to some of its peers. So, when the Silver Shadow was launched in 1965 it wasn't a moment too soon. Back at launch the Silver Shadow was considered state of the art with a number of key attributes setting the car apart from all those that had gone before. Firstly, it once and for all put to death the hallowed Rolls Royce tradition of producing cars with a separate body and chassis. There would be none of that old nonsense for the new model with the Shadow utilising a thoroughly modern pressed steel monocoque. The most tangible benefit of this being improved packaging. Despite being nearly four inches narrower and seven shorter than its predecessor, it was notably roomier and about two stocky chauffeurs lighter. The thoroughly modern John Blatchley design had plenty more surprises up its impeccably tailored sleeves, too. There was the dual circuit disc brakes all round, to start (or stop) with but perhaps the biggest surprise was the entente cordial-esque inclusion of a notable Gallic innovation. The Shadow eschewed the outdated live rear axle design in favour of an independent system with hydropneumatic actuation which was licensed from Citroen. The self-levelling design initially graced both ends of the Shadow but was used on the rear only from 1969 onwards with no detriment to the car's pillowy ride. The Silver Shadow was a huge hit and helped to broaden the appeal of the marque with illustrious owners ranging from members of the royal family to Freddy Mercury, Eric Morecombe and Jimmy Tarbuck. By the time the Silver Shadow II arrived in 1977 over 16,000 Shadows had rolled out of Crewe. This Silver Shadow 4-door saloon was delivered new in Switzerland through Garage de l'Athénée in Geneva, with Swiss specifications and left-hand drive. Finished in Black Masons paint with a tan leather interior, it came equipped with options such as automatic speed control. The car was first registered on 1st May 1973. In 2021, the car underwent maintenance at Bahman Cars, including rust treatment, a full respray, and restoration of the driver's seat and door panels. Offered with a Swiss carte grise (registration document), a veteran expertise certificate dated 20th April 2021, and invoices for the aforementioned work. The history file also includes photocopies of the original build documentation, detailing the car's specifications, assembly, checks, and inspection records. Please kindly note that this car will be available for viewing by prior appointment in STUDEN (SWITZERLAND): please contact lisa.salama@bonhams.com and nina.skunca@bonhams.com for booking. Saleroom notices: Please kindly note this car will be subject to VAT on the hammer price. Lot to be sold without reserve. This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: † † Taxable at the prevailing rate on Hammer Price and Buyer's Premium. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing

Saleroom Notice:
Please kindly note this car will be subject to VAT on the hammer price.