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The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith, produced from 1946 to 1959, was the first post-war model from the esteemed British marque, embodying luxury, craftsmanship, and stately elegance. While many Silver Wraiths received coachwork from renowned British builders, this particular 1954 example stands as a unique testament to bespoke automotive artistry. Commissioned by the American business magnate and inventor Joseph J Mascuch, this Silver Wraith limousine received one-off coachwork from the esteemed Italian carrozzeria Alfredo Vignale. The result was a striking and unconventional design, featuring distinctive quad headlights and a reverse rake for the retractable rear window, a design that turned heads when displayed at the 1954 Turin Motor Show before its delivery in mid-1955. This extraordinary vehicle, chassis number LCLW14, is not only defined by its unique silhouette but also by the opulent and personalized details incorporated at the request of its discerning first owner.
Bespoke Coachwork by Alfredo Vignale: The unmistakable body style of this 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Limousine is a direct reflection of Joseph J Mascuch’s vision, brought to life by the skilled artisans at Alfredo Vignale in Italy. Tasked with creating a truly one-of-a-kind automobile, Vignale penned a design that incorporated several unusual and distinctive features. Most notably, the front fascia features a quad-headlight arrangement, a departure from the more traditional Rolls-Royce styling of the era. Furthermore, the rear window was designed with a reverse rake, allowing it to retract in an unconventional manner. These design choices, combined with the overall proportions of the limousine, resulted in a vehicle that was both elegant and distinctly individual, making a bold statement at the prestigious 1954 Turin Motor Show where it was first unveiled to the public.
Unique Features for a Discerning Tycoon: The level of detail incorporated into this Silver Wraith goes far beyond its striking exterior design, reflecting the specific needs and desires of its commissioning owner, Joseph J Mascuch. For improved visibility for the chauffeur within his black leather-lined compartment, the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament was crafted in a kneeling position, a rare and personalized touch. For Mr. Mascuch, seated in the luxurious grey passenger compartment, the vehicle was equipped with an inbuilt telephone, allowing him to conduct business on the move, a cutting-edge feature for the time. Perhaps the most extravagant and talked-about feature is the gold-plated fixture discreetly housed under the seat cushion, which served the dual purpose of a toilet and a champagne cooler, catering to both practicality and Mr. Mascuch’s penchant for celebratory beverages. These unique and personalized amenities underscore the bespoke nature of this exceptional Rolls-Royce.
Specially Prepared 4.9-Liter Straight-Six Engine: Even the mechanical aspects of this Silver Wraith received special attention to meet Mr. Mascuch’s tastes. Rolls-Royce went to the unusual step of painting the engine block of the 4.9-liter straight-six and various ancillaries in a distinctive green hue. Adding to the visual flair under the bonnet, many of the pipes in the engine bay were meticulously chrome-plated, showcasing a level of detail rarely seen. The Silver Wraith’s straight-six engine was known for its smooth and refined power delivery, perfectly complementing the luxurious nature of the vehicle. While the specific performance figures of this uniquely colored and detailed engine are not provided, its special preparation highlights the level of customization afforded to Mr. Mascuch.
Ownership History and Current Condition: After its initial ownership by Joseph J Mascuch, this extraordinary Silver Wraith was later acquired by prominent Michigan collectors Richard and Linda Kughn, further attesting to its significance and desirability within the collector car world. The consigning owner, residing in the Netherlands, has cherished this unique piece of automotive history since August 2014. While the car has been a static display piece for some time, it is noted that it will require mechanical recommissioning before it can be driven. However, once brought back to running order, this Silver Wraith by Vignale is guaranteed to command attention and admiration wherever it travels, a rolling testament to a bygone era of bespoke luxury and individual expression.
Summary:
- One-off coachwork by Alfredo Vignale, commissioned by Joseph J Mascuch.
- Unique four-headlight design and reverse rake rear window.
- Kneeling Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament.
- Inbuilt telephone and gold-plated toilet-cum-champagne cooler.
- Special green-painted 4.9-liter straight-six engine with chrome pipes.
- Previously owned by prominent collectors Richard and Linda Kughn.
- Retained by the consigning owner in the Netherlands since 2014.
- Will require mechanical recommissioning prior to driving.
Disclaimer: The vehicle is currently not in driving condition and requires mechanical recommissioning. Potential buyers are advised to conduct a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the work needed.
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