The famous Spirit of Ecstasy will be flying high on February 27 at Shannons first 2017 sale in its new Melbourne showroom, with five Rolls-Royce vehicles spanning 55 years going under the hammer – four enticingly offered with ‘no reserve’.
Those expected to attract the most fervent bidding are a 1975 model Silver Shadow and a 1981 Silver Spirit Saloon – both from the estate of long term Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia member, Bill Allsep.As a monument to her late husband’s passion for the marque, Bill Allsep’s widow Jean made a significant donation to the Sir Henry Royce Foundation that allowed the purchase of a property in Rowville, Victoria, that is now the RROCA’s clubrooms and home of the Foundation’s Archive.
The lovely Silver Shadow finished in striking Honey Gold with Cream leather period livery represents an ideal entry vehicle to the mystique of Rolls-Royce ownership.
Built shortly before the release of the Shadow II in 1975, this beautifully-presented saloon is therefore equipped with the updated model’s larger 6.75-litre V8 and smoother GM three-speed transmission, along with a host of minor incorporated in the Shadow II on its launch.
Well known in local club circles, the Shadow has been carefully maintained over the many years. It is being offered with ‘no reserve’ and is expected to sell in the $20,000-$25,000- range
Also offered with ‘no reserve’, also appealingly priced and equally well-maintained, is its 1981 Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit stablemate.
Finished in Claret with Cream Connolly leather upholstery, this well-maintained early Silver Spirit has belonged to several Rolls-Royce Club members over many years before Allsep’s ownership and is being sold with its well-documented local history.
The ‘Spirit’ potentially represents great value for money at its anticipated ‘no reserve’ selling range of $18,000-$24,00, with Shannons saying it would be perfect for weekend trips or club outings in style and luxury.
Despite their appeal, the clear standout of the ‘no reserve’ Rolls-Royces being auctioned is an Australian-delivered 1964 Silver Cloud IIIV8Saloon presented in stunning condition
Finished in Velvet Green over Tudor Grey, with a contrasting tan leather interior, the Cloud III is an original York Motors delivery that has benefited from considerable cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment in recent years, during when it was repainted and fitted with air conditioning.
Showing an indicated 56,000 miles on its odometer, this elegant Rolls-Royce is currently registered on Victorian historic plates and comes with a file containing invoices and a handbook
It is being offered with ‘no reserve’, with Shannons believing it would make a wonderful club car at its expected selling range of $60,000-$80,000.
An exciting opportunity for Pre-War Rolls-Royce enthusiasts is a unique 1938 Rolls-Royce 25/30hp Shooting Brake with a fascinating history – also offered with ‘no reserve’.
Factory records indicate that chassis GLP15 was originally equipped with limousine bodywork by renowned coachbuilders Windovers of London and was first registered in the UK.
It later migrated to America where it remained until recently. At some point, the car was converted into a Shooting Brake with its unique aluminium-panelled body designed for hunting featuring a fold-down rear seat, plus two additional jump seats, and dual side-mounted spare wheels.
Although an older restoration, the car’s unusual coachwork, combined with its striking two-tone maroon over cream colour scheme makes it an eye-catcher, while its light tan upholstery is showing minimal wear
This unique estate car is eligible for numerous car shows and events held around Australia and comes supplied with a handbook. Shannons expect International interest in the $35,000-$45,000 range.
