Honouring a Century of Craftsmanship
In 2025, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Phantom, a model long revered as the “Best Car in the World.” To mark this occasion, the marque’s Bespoke Collective of designers, craftspeople, and engineers has created the most intricate woodwork in its history – a stunning interior that turns wood into art.
Phil Fabre de la Grange, General Manager of Bespoke, said:
“Our Bespoke Collective of designers, craftspeople and engineers are, simply, the best in the world at what they do. To honour Phantom in its centenary year, they pioneered groundbreaking woodworking techniques, combining 3D ink layering, 3D marquetry and gilding within a single surface. These intricate processes push materials to the limits of their natural tolerance, transforming each panel into a stunning, tactile sculpture.”
Introducing Three Rolls-Royce Firsts
For this centenary masterpiece, Rolls-Royce introduced three world-first techniques:
- 3D Marquetry – raised motifs carved and engraved by hand for a sculptural finish.
- 3D Ink Layering – delicate layers of ink that add depth and texture to the surface.
- 24-Carat Gold Leafing – gilded lines that trace Phantom’s century of journeys.
Together, these innovations weave a visual narrative of travel, legacy, and craftsmanship – turning every wooden surface into a storytelling canvas.
The Most Complex Doors in Rolls-Royce History
The heart of this creation lies in Phantom’s door interiors, each taking over a year to perfect. Artisans shaped Blackwood veneer into intricate landscapes inspired by maps and floral patterns. As light shifts, each design reveals subtle tones and textures.
Moreover, instead of metal speaker grilles, Rolls-Royce’s designers milled openings directly into the wood, ensuring seamless design continuity. Every surface feels deliberate – no line or layer left to chance.
The Art of Gold Leaf and the Hand of the Artisan
To master 24-carat gold leafing, artisans from Rolls-Royce’s Interior Surface Centre trained at West Dean College in West Sussex, a renowned institution for traditional craftsmanship. Gold leaf, just 0.1 micrometres thick, is carefully applied and sealed into the marquetry.
As a result, delicate gold paths shimmer across each door, representing Phantom’s most storied journeys. This interplay between wood and gold captures the spirit of progress and timeless artistry that defines Rolls-Royce.
A Private Collection for the Phantom Centenary
The masterpiece forms the centrepiece of a 25-car Private Collection dedicated to Phantom’s 100-year legacy. Each car celebrates the union of innovation, tradition, and bespoke luxury – proof that even after a century, Rolls-Royce continues to redefine perfection.
