Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has celebrated the 60th anniversary of the iconic James Bond film Goldfinger with the unveiling of a remarkable one-of-one Phantom Extended. This exquisite vehicle, known as the Phantom Goldfinger, is a tribute not just to the film, but also to the legacy of craftsmanship that Rolls-Royce embodies. Inspired by Auric Goldfinger’s 1937 Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, this unique model incorporates some of the most meticulously engineered and hand-crafted Bespoke features ever created, showcasing the artistry and innovation synonymous with the brand.
A Masterpiece of Engineering and Design
The Phantom Goldfinger draws from the rich narrative of Goldfinger, weaving together a tapestry of design elements that pay homage to the film’s plot and themes. Over three years of continuous development went into crafting the many luxurious features, each reflecting moments from the film. For instance, the exterior is finished in a striking yellow hue that mirrors the original 1937 Phantom III, complemented by a unique long-side two-tone design, and 21-inch disc wheels that evoke the classic look of the film.
The Spirit of Ecstasy, the iconic emblem at the prow of the vehicle, has been reimagined to reflect the movie’s storyline. The figurine’s gold reveal effect—crafted from solid silver and plated in 18-carat gold—hints at the narrative of smuggling gold within the vehicle’s body panels, encapsulating the essence of the film’s villain.
A Hidden Vault of Luxury
Inside the Phantom Goldfinger, a hidden vault nestled within the center console houses a solid 18-carat gold bar, shaped like a ‘Speedform’ to mirror the car’s design. The glovebox lid is inscribed with Goldfinger’s famous line: “This is gold, Mr. Bond. All my life, I have been in love with its colour, its brilliance, its divine heaviness.” Every detail, from gold-finished air vents to treadplates resembling gold bars, showcases Rolls-Royce’s commitment to excellence and luxury.
Celebrating the Furka Pass
The motor car also pays tribute to the legendary Furka Pass, where a pivotal scene from the film was shot. The Gallery, a breathtaking three-dimensional artwork, features an isoline map of the pass, intricately crafted from stainless steel with a gilded underlayer, revealing the contours of the road. This complex piece took a year to develop, emphasizing the dedication of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective to artistic perfection.
The Starlight Headliner adds another layer of nostalgia, replicating the constellations visible over the Furka Pass on July 11, 1964, the last day of filming for Goldfinger. A constellation of 719 stars and eight shooting stars glow with a subtle gold hue, enhancing the overall ambiance of the interior.
Goldfinger’s Legacy in Every Detail
Phantom Goldfinger is not just about luxury; it embodies storytelling through design. The Royal Walnut picnic tables are adorned with a fictional map of Fort Knox, crafted with a delicate 22-carat gold inlay, marking key locations from the film. The interior color scheme, featuring Navy leather and gold accents, reflects both elegance and the film’s luxurious aesthetic.
Further nods to Goldfinger include a gold-plated golf club mounted inside the boot lid, referencing Bond’s memorable encounter with Goldfinger at Stoke Park. Additionally, an innovative 007 logo projector illuminates the luggage compartment, subtly acknowledging the film’s technological flair.
Conclusion: A Collector’s Dream
Rolls-Royce’s Phantom Goldfinger stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to crafting deeply personal masterpieces that transcend luxury. As Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, stated, “Each creation is a reflection of our commitment to producing extraordinary, unique motor cars.”
This exceptional vehicle has now found its home with a distinguished Rolls-Royce client and collector in England, marking a new chapter in the rich narrative of both Rolls-Royce and the James Bond legacy. Phantom Goldfinger is not merely a car; it is a celebration of cinematic history, engineering excellence, and the art of luxury.
Source: Rolls-Royce
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
