The 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith Saloon by Thrupp & Maberly represents a timeless example of luxury and craftsmanship from one of the most prestigious automotive marques in history. This stunning model will be offered at the Hershey 2024 auction in Pennsylvania, with an estimated value between $65,000 and $85,000 USD.
A Unique Owner-Driven Sport Saloon
Introduced in 1938, the Rolls-Royce Wraith was designed as an “owner-driven” vehicle, marrying elegance with practicality. This made the Wraith a unique addition to Rolls-Royce’s lineup, bridging the gap between their smaller, more compact prewar models and the larger, more luxurious postwar designs. Unlike many chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce models of its era, the Wraith offered a sportier, more personal driving experience for its owners.
Coachwork by Thrupp & Maberly
One of the most respected coachbuilders of the time, Thrupp & Maberly, crafted the exquisite bodywork on this particular Wraith Saloon. Finished in a rich Imperial Maroon exterior, it features a luxurious Chestnut leather interior that complements the vehicle’s stately appearance. The car’s bare chassis, WCH28, was originally sold in March 1939 to Rootes Limited, the parent company of Thrupp & Maberly, where the elegant saloon body was crafted.
Documented Chain of Ownership
This Rolls-Royce Wraith boasts a well-documented and storied history, with a chain of ownership carefully recorded from new. The car’s first owner, Mr. L. Abbott of Saunders Abbott’s Garage in Beckenham, Kent, used it as his personal transport between his garage and London. Following his passing, the car was sold to Mr. A.D. Dane, a Rolls-Royce employee who maintained it meticulously with James Young of Bromley, a respected Rolls-Royce service provider. Included in the sale is a James Young-issued service log, providing insight into its early maintenance history.
In 1966, the car was imported to the United States by Mr. Marion Avakian of Los Angeles, who cherished the Wraith for the next three decades. The vehicle has passed through a handful of owners since, each maintaining its condition, and in 2014, it was acquired by its current owner who has continued its dedicated care.
An Important Piece of Rolls-Royce History
The 1939 Wraith represents a critical moment in Rolls-Royce’s evolution, blending prewar craftsmanship with the sophistication that would come to define its postwar luxury models. With its documented history, including copies of its original build sheet, registration book, service history log, and invoices dating back to 1966, this Wraith is a rare and significant find for any collector.
Set to cross the auction block as Lot 183 at Hershey 2024, this meticulously preserved example is ready to enter a new chapter in its illustrious journey, offering a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire a piece of Rolls-Royce history.
Don’t miss your chance to become the next steward of this 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith Saloon by Thrupp & Maberly, an iconic and elegant reminder of a bygone era.
Source: rmsothebys.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
