Chassis No. S187RP

Engine No. 21877

Steering Box No. 21877

Founded in 1926 by Americans Thomas L. Hibbard and designer Howard Darrin, Hibbard & Darrin of Paris, France, created some of the era's most exquisite luxury automobile bodies, including this remarkable Rolls-Royce Phantom I Sedanca de Ville. This rare and uniquely styled motorcar is one of only two Phantom I chassis believed to have been bodied by Hibbard & Darrin. As noted in the digital copies of the original owner's card, this was originally delivered to Randolph Ortman on 18 October 1928, likely in Southampton, U.K. as part of their European expedition. After completing their travels, the car was returned to the U.S., likely to the Ortman family's country estate, Blue Ridge Farm, in Albemarle, Virginia.

The car showcases a lavish display of luxury interior, featuring gold-plated hardware, a Rolls-Royce silent clock, a sterling silver brandy set for two, and a sterling silver cigarette holder with a matching lighter case. The interior also boasts eight cut-velvet panels, trimmed with inlaid wood in delicate pastel shades of cream and pink that complement the polished burr walnut trim. Should the need arise, two fold-up "cricket" seats provide additional passenger capacity. Perhaps most remarkable is rear passenger compartment that boasts mink carpeting providing passengers with an unparalleled sense of royalty on any outing with the car. The exterior is finished in a striking combination of burgundy and black, with a beautifully finished trunk at the rear. The brightwork-lamps, door handles, hinges, and the Flying Lady hood ornament-add to the car's regal presence.

The Phantom I passed through a chain of owners, and remarkably, the car returned to Southampton in 1967 with A. E. Schneebeli of Maryland, along with ten other cars, during a Rolls-Royce Owner's Club trip to Goodwood. Still with Schneebeli in the early 1970s, the car scored third in the Phantom I class during an RROC concours. The car then was shown again in the early 1970s, this time by Alfred Bell, in Atlanta, Georgia in 1972, where it scored a second in class honor.

The subsequent notable owners were Anabel and John Konwiser, who purchased the car in 1983 and kept it for the next 28 years. Avid enthusiasts with a remarkable collection, the car was shown and toured across the country, remaining in largely original condition. According to previous research, the engine was rebuilt in 1984 with aluminum pistons and subsequently upgraded with a modern oil filtration system, radiator core, a six-blade fan, and aluminum pistons to ensure more reliable long-distance touring. According to a previous statement from the Konwisers, the fenders were refinished, but the car has never been comprehensively restored. Having received careful stewardship over the years, the Phantom I has developed a lovely patina through regular use. During Konwiser's ownership term, the Phantom I covered thousands of miles, completing the Great American Race twice, including a return drive from New York City to California.

This sensational 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Hibbard & Darrin Sedanca de Ville entered The Academy of Art University Collection in 2011. As a CCCA Full Classic it would be warmly welcomed at any Classic Car Club of America, Rolls-Royce Owner's Club, or Antique Automobile Club of America events across the country. It remains a remarkable example of a highly original Rolls-Royce that offers its next caretaker a chance to add the next chapter to its bright future.