Page 8 - HeritageEbooklet
P. 8
© Rolls-Royce plc
Above: The ‘Silver Ghost’ model was known for its ghost-like quietness. The name
was first applied to chassis number 60551 (which had the registration plate AX
201). It was commissioned with silver painted coachwork and silver plated lamps
and fittings by Rolls-Royce’s Managing Director, Claude Johnson. He used the vehicle
to publicise the company’s new 40/50hp six-cylinder model which was the car that
established Rolls-Royce’s great reputation. AX 201 still exists and is now owned by
Bentley Motors. It regularly appears at international events and is considered to be
the most valuable car in the world.
Page 9 (right): The approximate costs for the new factory buildings in Nightingale
Road, which were designed to specifications provided by Henry Royce. The Factory was
formally opened on 9 July 1908 in a ceremony performed by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu
(who, interestingly, commissioned a mascot for his Rolls-Royce called ‘The Whisper’,
which was the precursor to ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’).
Left: Silver Ghost
cars being built in
the Derby factory.
© Rolls-Royce plc
8
