Rolls-Royce presents another unique version of the Phantom for a Saudi tycoon

That a Rolls-Royce Phantom is a luxury car is not news, but the versions built on this incredible car usually are. The latest one-off created on the basis of this ultra-luxury saloon is the Rolls-Royce Phantom Hummingbird. In other words, a Phantom adorned with hummingbird figures.

This one-off model was created for a client from Dubai, who wanted to pay tribute to his wife and, as the saying goes, spared no expense. One of the most important features of this car is that marquetry made with abalone shell has been used to shape the hummingbird figures.

Abalone is a marine mollusc also known as sea ear. The shell of this mollusc creates a reflection of different shades of blue and green, which is why it has been used to shape the wings of these small birds, which also display these reflections. The hummingbird was chosen as it represents a «symbol of joy, resilience and the ability to find beauty in every moment».

The hummingbirds made from this material can be seen in several places inside the vehicle, creating a very elegant and welcoming space. In addition, a botanical motif on a wooden plaque has been placed on the rear seat, made with the same materials. Each of the birds is made up of 53 pieces, while the botanical decoration has 84 elements in total.

Working with these pieces is no easy task, so the design team experimented with up to six versions before arriving at the final one. The abalone shells were laser-cut and the edges were worked by hand before applying the final lacquer. 45 hours of work were used to complete this exclusive commission.

The luxury of the cabin is completed with cream-coloured leather and moccasin and tan inserts on the seats. The carpets are sea-shell coloured, there are ash wood veneers and silver birch details.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom worked on is the extended wheelbase version, which has a length of 5,982 millimetres and a wheelbase of 3,772 millimetres. The exterior is painted in the colours Wildberry and White Sands. A hand-painted hummingbird stands out on the White Sands, giving it its own personality.

As for the price, it has not been made public, but the Phantom Extended starts at 600,000 dollars, so this finish will push the figure up considerably.