Rolls-Royce Phantom Hummingbird: A One-Off Masterpiece With Iridescent Abalone Shell Marquetry

Key Takeaways

• Rolls-Royce has created a one-off Phantom with abalone shell marquetry, a first in its history.
• The luxury sedan is a tribute to a client’s wife and features iridescent hummingbird motifs.
• The abalone shell marquetry took over nine months to develop and 45 hours to complete.
• The Phantom Hummingbird is based on the long-wheelbase variant and features a bi-tone exterior.
• The price of the one-off Phantom is not revealed, but the standard Phantom Extended starts from around $600,000.

What Makes the Rolls-Royce Phantom Hummingbird Unique?

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Hummingbird is a one-off masterpiece that showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The use of abalone shell marquetry, a first in Rolls-Royce’s history, adds an extra layer of exclusivity to this bespoke model.

The abalone shell marquetry is used to replicate the iridescent feathers of a hummingbird, a symbol of joy, resilience, and beauty. The process of creating this unique feature took over nine months to develop and 45 hours to complete, demonstrating the level of dedication and expertise that Rolls-Royce brings to its bespoke models.

How Does the Abalone Shell Marquetry Work?

The abalone shell marquetry is a complex process that involves cutting the shell into tiny pieces and placing them within the veneer. The team experimented with six iterations before coming up with the final solution, which involved reducing the thickness of the laser-cut pearl and abalone and working out their edges by hand before applying lacquer.

The result is a stunning display of craftsmanship and attention to detail, with the abalone shell marquetry adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the Phantom’s interior.

What Else Sets the Phantom Hummingbird Apart?

Aside from the abalone shell marquetry, the Phantom Hummingbird features a range of other unique elements that set it apart from other Rolls-Royce models. The bi-tone exterior combines Wildberry with White Sands, highlighted by a White Sands Coachline interrupted by a hand-painted hummingbird graphic.

The interior combines Creme Light leather with Moccasin and Tan inserts on the seats, Seashell carpets, Ash Burr veneer, and Silver Birch accents, creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere.

How Much Does the Phantom Hummingbird Cost?

Rolls-Royce has not revealed the price of the one-off Phantom Hummingbird, but the standard Phantom Extended starts from around $600,000. Given the unique features and level of craftsmanship that has gone into this bespoke model, it is likely that the Phantom Hummingbird will command a premium price.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Wheelbase	3,772 mm (148.5 in)
Length	5,982 mm (235.5 in)
Starting Price (Phantom Extended)	around $600,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the inspiration behind the Phantom Hummingbird?

The Phantom Hummingbird is a tribute to a client’s wife, featuring iridescent hummingbird motifs created from abalone shell marquetry.

How long did it take to develop the abalone shell marquetry?

The abalone shell marquetry took over nine months to develop and 45 hours to complete.

What is the starting price of the standard Phantom Extended?

The starting price of the standard Phantom Extended is around $600,000.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique abalone shell marquetry adds exclusivity and elegance to the Phantom’s interior
• Bi-tone exterior with hand-painted hummingbird graphic creates a stunning visual effect
• Luxurious interior with Creme Light leather and Moccasin and Tan inserts
• Generous wheelbase and length provide ample space for passengers

Cons

• Price of the one-off Phantom Hummingbird is not revealed, but likely to be premium
• Abalone shell marquetry may be prone to damage or discoloration over time
• Unique features may not appeal to all buyers
• Standard Phantom Extended starts at around $600,000, which may be out of budget for some buyers