1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Barker Sports Limousine

30th Anniversary Sale at The Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire 50000 - 70000 Registration No: EXY 685 Chassis No: 3CM195 MOT: Exempt � One of just 727 Phantom IIIs built � Fitted with rare and sporty Barker Sports Limousine coachwork � Acquired by the late Jens Pilo in 1973 as his first classic Rolls-Royce � Very well maintained and running smoothly � Offered with a comprehensive history file Although unveiled to the public at the October 1935 Olympia Motor Show, the Phantom III did not enter series production until May 1936. A fabulous design that reasserted Rolls-Royce's right to be considered as the world's pre-eminent car manufacturer, its cruciform-braced chassis featured independent coil-sprung front suspension, a fully-floating 'live' rear axle, hydraulic shock absorbers and gearbox driven servo-assisted four-wheel drum brakes. Drawing on decades of aero-engine experience, it was powered by a 7340cc OHV V12. Fabricated largely from aluminium alloy, this technically advanced unit boasted a seven-bearing crankshaft, eight-bearing camshaft, hydraulic tappets and dual downdraught Stromberg carburettors. Effortlessly potent and eerily smooth, it required a level of care and maintenance not dissimilar to that of its Schneider Trophy-winning siblings. Allied to a four-speed manual gearbox (complete with synchromesh on second, third and fourth gears), it gave most variants a 100mph top speed. Only built for three short seasons, just 727 Phantom IIIs are thought to have been despatched worldwide. This is an exceptionally well-preserved Phantom III, featuring a Barker Sports Limousine coachwork design that's both distinctive and original. It has been under the ownership of a single owner for an impressive 49 years. The car's aesthetic appeal is defined by its graceful lines, offering a blend of elegance and sporting character, particularly noticeable in its flowing rear design. The exterior is finished in a tasteful chocolate brown over cream, complemented by practical 'easy clean' ace wheel discs. Inside, the car's interior remains in remarkable original condition, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. Notably, the vehicle features a close-coupled design and includes a partition. Unique folding footrests are a highlight in the rear compartment, and the boot lid serves a dual purpose as a luggage rack, a design characteristic typical of its era. Included in the car's historical documentation is a copy of a 1959 logbook, showing Manor Edward, A.D. Collins of Burneston Hall, Bedale, as the owner at that time. Subsequent ownership includes William V. Ogley of Ham Mill, Newbury, in 1962, followed by Arthur Meredith-Owens of Kings Sutton Manor, Banbury. In 1969, the vehicle changed hands to Geoffrey Hubert Cookson of 100 Naraimd Way, Kingswinford, and ultimately to the current owner in 1973, who acquired it from Rolls-Royce & Bentley agents, David Scott-Moncrieff & Sons Ltd. The car was advertised as the finest but not the most expensive Phantom III on the market during the acquisition, with a mention of careful storage over a long period and a recent engine rebuild. The mileage at the time of purchase, as verified by subsequent MOTs, remains remarkably low at 12,000 miles under the current owner's stewardship. The present owner has diligently maintained the vehicle, as evidenced by the comprehensive maintenance log. In 1986, the engine underwent an overhaul by David Mead, and further enhancements were carried out by P&A Wood in 1987-1989. Routine maintenance has been entrusted to Arthur Archer of Great Dunmow. Notably, the car participated in the 50-year celebrations of the RREC in 2007, attesting to its historical significance. In summary, this Phantom III represents a highly original and exceptionally well-maintained example, marked by its extended ownership and featuring the striking Barker Sports Limousine coachwork�an exceptional find in the world of classic automobiles.