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1976 - Rolls-Royce Corniche Ex-César
Chassis n°CRX24038
Fren…
See original version (French)
46
-
1976 - Rolls-Royce Corniche Ex-César
Chassis n°CRX24038
Fren…
See original version (French)
Estimate €40,000 - €60,000
Voluntary lot
Description
1976 - Rolls-Royce Corniche Ex-César
Chassis n°CRX24038
French registration
Rare French left-hand drive version, over €29,000 worth of work carried out at specialist Prestige Automotiv.
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Two Doors was unveiled in March 1966. Developed in collaboration with London coachbuilder H.J. Mulliner Park Ward, this elegant two-door version retained most of the technical base and luxury of the saloon, but with a more exclusive silhouette.
In 1971, the model became independent of the Silver Shadow range and adopted the name Corniche. This development was accompanied by a number of improvements, followed by a second series launched in 1977 incorporating a number of technical and styling evolutions. Produced mainly for export markets, the Corniche Coupé appealed to a wealthy clientele prepared to wait several years for delivery of their vehicle. Withdrawn from the catalogue in 1980, 1,658 examples of all versions were produced.
As its number plate attests, this Corniche was imported into France by Franco-Britannic. According to an affidavit by expert Maurice Sauzay, it was delivered to Raymond Haboud in Tehran, but never left France. It then reappeared in Cannes in 1985, before being sold to the famous sculptor César Baldaccini in 1988. He in turn sold it to a property developer in Lyon, who kept it for seven years before it was seized and auctioned off. Acquired on that occasion by a previous owner, he kept it for 18 years but rarely used it. He entrusted the car to Aguttes in 2016, who sold it to a professional for more than €44,000. Its current owner bought it in 2018.
The odometer now reads 112,000 km, which is certainly the car's original mileage. The car is in very good overall condition, with bodywork repainted in the 1990s in its original porcelain white. The vinyl roof and chrome are well preserved. The cabin features the original black leather upholstery, with a patina finish, and black high-wool carpets. The woodwork was repainted in 2023 and the dashboard is fitted with the original Blaupunkt radio.
In recent years, the car has been serviced by specialist Prestig Automotiv, and over €29,000 has been spent on keeping it in good condition. The engine and gearbox have been removed and all the seals and other peripheral components replaced. The air conditioning compressor and front shock absorbers were also replaced. A final overhaul was carried out before the sale at a cost of more than €4,200. With its singular history, beautiful state of preservation and meticulous maintenance, this Rolls-Royce Corniche deserves the attention of the most demanding collectors.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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