Rolls-Royce Spectre joins the celebration of floral art in Chelsea, with flower-inspired hues, finished in elegant Velvet Orchid with a Peony Pink Coachline
Floral themes have long inspired many of the marque’s most celebrated Bespoke creations
[source: Rolls-Royce]
The ongoing success of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is based upon an intimate understanding of the unique world in which its clients live, socialise and entertain. In this spirit, the marque delights in maintaining a gentle presence in the world’s luxury hotspots.
“As the British Season begins, we’re delighted to join the celebration of floral art in Chelsea this week, a popular event in the social calendar for many of our clients. Dress codes are an inherent part of the allure for such an occasion and, like our clients, we like to hit the brief. We debuted a striking Rolls-Royce Spectre finished in Velvet Orchid with a Peony Pink Coachline, reflecting the quiet confidence and refined beauty that resonates with our clients and defines our marque.”Boris Weletzky, Regional Director, United Kingdom, Europe and Central Asia, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
The ongoing success of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is based upon an intimate understanding of the unique world in which its clients live, socialise and entertain. In this spirit, the marque delights in maintaining a gentle presence in the world’s luxury hotspots.
This week, Rolls-Royce Spectre is joining clients in celebrating the breathtaking floral art displayed in the streets and residence entryways in the heart of Chelsea, South-West London. In keeping with the flower-inspired theme and reflecting the brand’s enduring connection with nature, the Spectre is finished in Velvet Orchid – one of nature’s most captivating flowers, admired for its rich colour, velvety texture and luxurious appearance – and complemented by a delicate hand-painted Peony Pink Coachline.
Floral motifs have long inspired Rolls-Royce Bespoke commissions. Nature – and flowers in particular – provide a rich language of symbolism, sentiment and beauty. This Spectre follows some recent exceptional commissions inspired by the natural world, including the celebrated Phantom Cherry Blossom and Daisy Cullinan. These creations are not simply motor cars, but deeply personal artworks – each a reflection of the commissioning clients’ values, identity and lifestyle.
Admittedly, we watch Netherlands-based Niels van Roij Design with great interest. While no, they’re not a factory tailor nor a remastering firm like so many you’ll find on this site, they perhaps are even more unique.
They’re a coach builder. They use the terms and we’d agree. In the spirit of pre-war coach builders from whom you’d commission your custom bodied Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Horch, Bugatti, Packard or the like, clients can and do commission highly specialized cars from Neils van Roij, and his firm delivers. In this case, the car was a modern Rolls-Royce Silver Spectre, though built as a shooting brake.
What’s a “shooting brake”? Much like the “station wagon” term comes from the day of horses pulling carriages. Whereas you’d take your station wagon with bed for storage to the train station, you’d take your shooting brake built for carrying guns and equipment to go out shooting. It’s all very logical of course, just like shooting brakes and station wagons with their long roofs enabling you to carry more luggage, gear, guns, hunting hounds, or whatever you may need.
This isn’t a reveal of the Silver Spectre Shooting Brake. The car has made its rounds on media platforms, though Neils van Roij design’s post this week on social media is still worth taking note of. As it turns out, this very special car has a notable new owner – famed racing driver Dario Franchitti.
According to the post, the car was recently listed with Joe Jacari, which is how Franchitti came to own it.
Black Badge Spectre is the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history
Development informed by hundreds of thousands of miles of anonymised Black Badge client driving data
Early client demand prompted creation of a clandestine fleet of Black Badge Spectres
New Infinity Mode changes driving character and summons 485 kW (659 hp) of power, delivered effortlessly
Black Badge aesthetic denotes a more visceral Rolls-Royce driving experience: coloured canvas behind Illuminated Pantheon Grille, new Vapour Violet colour inspired by the neon lights of 1980s and 1990s club culture, Illuminated Black Badge Treadplates, Technical Fibre, Illuminated Fascia
Spirited Mode, inspired by Rolls-Royce Merlin engine feature, unlocks landmark 1075 Nm of torque
Black Badge is Rolls-Royce’s formidable alter ego, made for clients who fearlessly reject convention
[source: Rolls-Royce]
“Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made. It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail. From the beginning of Black Badge Spectre’s journey, the clients who requested this extraordinary motor car dared us to share their fearless spirit. In response, our engineers combined data science, qualitative feedback, and their own deep knowledge of the brand’s alter ego to craft an intense and uncompromising character, and the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history. Reflecting the Black Badge character, our designers and artisans realised their most dramatic and provocative vision with vivid details and exquisite contemporary crafts. The result is Black Badge Spectre: the alter ego of our brand, amplified.” Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
“The development of Black Badge Spectre began with our deep understanding of engineering the uncompromising nature of the Black Badge character, overlaid with the detailed analysis of client feedback and their driving style. Black Badge owners from around the world permitted our specialists to access their anonymised data, enabling us to create a new driving experience perfectly suited to – and validated by – the way our clients use their motor car. Following internal development, a small tranche of ‘secret’ Black Badge Spectres was built for a group of clients who requested the earliest possible access to this motor car. They emphatically approved of our engineering response, highlighting the powerful connection between Rolls-Royce and its clients.” Dr Bernhard Dressler, Director of Engineering, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveils Black Badge Spectre – the marque’s alter ego, amplified. In addition to debuting bold exterior finishes, vivid interior details, and innovative opportunities for Bespoke, Black Badge Spectre can summon a four-figure torque output (1075 Nm), with a record 485 kW (659 hp) of power. This makes Black Badge Spectre the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.
In every way, Black Badge Spectre is Rolls-Royce at its most potent and audacious – which perfectly captures the spirit of the bold individuals it has been created for, and who requested it. Black Badge clients are unique within Rolls-Royce – building their success on pushing boundaries and refusing to be defined by traditional codes of luxury. Their approach to luxury is no different. They accept nothing less than the most exquisitely crafted products and uncompromising experiences, but demand a dynamic edge and an unapologetic attitude that reflects their world, their story, and their daring.
The decision to craft such a potent motor car was driven by the extraordinary expectations of the marque’s Black Badge clients. Their rigorous demands required an equally formidable engineering response, built on Rolls-Royce’s profound understanding of what a Black Badge should be: effortlessly intense, immediate, and precise.
To ensure this philosophy accurately reflected how clients use their motor cars in the field, a group of Rolls-Royce owners granted engineers access to their anonymised driving data, allowing drivetrain specialists to quantitatively analyse their driving behaviour across hundreds of thousands of collective miles. This revealed that clients exploited maximum power in short pulses more than over extended periods. This insight provided powerful validation of the marque’s approach, perfectly matching the dramatic, intense character of the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever created – meticulously developed in the image of this bold client group.
HARNESSING FORMIDABLE POWER For Black Badge Spectre, the concept of formidable bursts of power is taken to an extreme with two powertrain innovations. Although these functions are new for a Rolls-Royce motor car, they have a historical precedent. In aircraft powered by the legendary Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, including the Supermarine Spitfire, pilots could obtain a burst of additional power by pushing a switch on the throttle quadrant. While the robust Merlin engine was easily able to accommodate these temporary pulses, pilots were required to report the use of the function on landing as a precaution to flight engineers – a requirement that does not apply to Black Badge Spectre drivers today.
The first innovation is a unique Infinity Mode, a tribute to the Infinity symbol used to signify a Black Badge Rolls-Royce. Unlocked by pressing the Infinity ∞ button on the steering wheel, the full 485 kW (659 hp) of power is made available, providing a more direct throttle response to the driver. Once this mode is activated, the dials become more vibrant to match the change in the motor car’s character.
Black Badge Spectre also features Spirited Mode, which allows the driver to experience a burst of intense, instantaneous acceleration. When the motor car is stationary, the driver engages this function by fully depressing the brake and throttle at the same time, waiting for a haptic and visual response signalling the car is ready, before fully releasing the brake. This temporarily amplifies the torque output to a landmark 1075 Nm, unleashing a surge of force and propelling the motor car from 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds.
BLACK BADGE CHASSIS ENGINEERING Rolls-Royce chassis specialists have introduced a number of changes to inspire clients to wield the unprecedented power of Black Badge Spectre with confidence. The steering weight is increased and the roll stabilisation is adjusted to create more feedback from steering inputs and reduce body-roll during cornering. Enhanced dampers also increase body control, reducing ‘squatting’ under acceleration or deceleration. These revisions perfectly balance an enhanced sense of engagement with the effortless operation and fêted Magic Carpet Ride associated with Rolls-Royce motor cars.
A CLANDESTINE AGREEMENT Our conversations with clients made it clear that they were eagerly anticipating this motor car’s arrival long before its official debut, compelled by the potential of Spectre reimagined through the bold, unwavering lens of Black Badge. In response to their frequent enquiries, Rolls-Royce granted a select group early access to this motor car on the condition that they would keep their ownership secret until the official unveiling – a discreet introduction that resonated with the rebellious spirit of these individuals. A small, highly exclusive fleet of clandestine Black Badge Spectres was commissioned for these individuals ahead of the motor car’s reveal. Their emphatically positive response to Black Badge Spectre, and the motor car’s daring treatment that had been developed in their image, provided powerful validation of the most potent Rolls-Royce in history.
A DARKENED AESTHETIC Black Badge Spectre makes its global debut in a new Vapour Violet paint finish, a deep black-violet inspired by the neon ambience of 1980s and 1990s club culture – a celebrated reference among many Black Badge clients. A painted Iced Black bonnet has also been introduced, creating a bold contrast that can be paired with the marque’s palette of 44,000 ‘prêt-à-porter’ colours. Alternatively, clients can develop a Bespoke hue reserved for their exclusive use, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce Bespoke designers.
In addition to the existing shoulder and fender coachline options, clients are now able to commission a ‘waft’ coachline, located on the lower half of the super coupé. This accentuates a crisp design line on the lower third of the motor car, subtly emphasising its commanding form and generous proportions.
Black Badge Spectre also introduces a bold new 23-inch five-spoke forged aluminium wheel design. Available in a part-polished or all-black finish, the complex geometry subtly indicates the hidden technical complexity and potency of this motor car. Highlighting the increasingly broad geography of Black Badge clients, winter tyres are available for the new wheelset from launch.
As with all Black Badge models before it, Black Badge Spectre’s mirror-polished brightwork is presented in a signature dark finish, signalling its subversive, noire character. This includes the marque’s hallmark Pantheon Grille surround, Spirit of Ecstasy, and the double ‘R’ Badge of Honour, as well as the motor car’s door handles, expansive side window surround and bumper accents.
VIVID ILLUMINATIONS Furthering its commitment to advanced, contemporary crafts, Rolls-Royce has developed a unique feature that enhances and intensifies Black Badge Spectre’s Illuminated Grille. A new Illuminated Grille backplate has been introduced for the motor car, which is offered in Tailored Purple, Charles Blue, Chartreuse, Forge Yellow and Turchese, allowing clients to extend their chosen colour onto this new canvas, or create a unique accent to complement a coachline or the interior. This vibrantly coloured illumination can extend into the interior with newly developed Illuminated Black Badge Treadplates, which are available in ten complementary colours.
A VIBRANT INNER SANCTUARY From the moment you enter Black Badge Spectre, its rebellious character is immediately apparent through the bold interior treatment.
The unique pattern on the Illuminated Fascia, which is an abstract expression of the Spirit of Ecstasy, now incorporates the Infinity symbol used across the wider Black Badge family. A statement of infinite power, the emblem once marked historical water-speed records and is a hallmark trusted by adrenaline pioneers. The fascia comprises over 5,500 ‘stars’ of varying proportions and intensity, set in a Piano Black ‘sky’.
Framing this advanced craft feature is a richly complex Technical Fibre surface finish. This diamond-shaped weave uses carbon and fine metal thread on top of a black Bolivar wood base. The thread is laid by hand in a diamond pattern between layers of carbon fibre, creating a three-dimensional effect. Once cured, each interior piece is sandblasted, sealed with six layers of lacquer, and hand-polished to a flawless finish, adding striking depth and clarity.
The Black Badge Infinity symbol is further incorporated in the motor car, stitched into the leather ‘Waterfall’ section, which separates the rear seats.
Black Badge Spectre’s instrument dials can be curated with a choice of five colour themes: Vivid Grellow, Neon Nights, Cyan Fire, Ultraviolet and Synth Wave, allowing clients to harmonise the physical and digital surfaces within their motor car via the SPIRIT operating system. This digital architecture of luxury also grants access to remote charging and location information, and the marque’s exclusive digital members club, Whispers.
DRAMATIC BY DESIGN Black Badge Spectre is a motor car born of fearless expression and focus, meticulously crafted in the image of the daring individuals it was made to serve. Its landmark power output, chassis technologies, and expansive potential for Bespoke open a vivid new chapter in the highly successful stories of Black Badge – the formidable alter ego of Rolls-Royce.
INSIGHTS: THE SPECTRE CLIENT AND THEIR MOTOR CAR Now in its second year of production, Rolls-Royce Spectre has established itself within the marque’s pantheon of super-luxury motor cars. With deliveries well underway, Rolls-Royce specialists have mapped key trends, revealing how clients use their Spectre and its role within their lives.
Typically, Spectre is a client’s second Rolls-Royce and forms part of a seven-car garage, allowing them to select a motor car to suit every occasion. Yet, despite its exclusivity, Spectre is being driven extensively highlighting the confidence and enthusiasm of its owners. One client in Dubai has already completed more than 8,000 miles in their Spectre in a single year. Another, a renowned British entrepreneur, regularly drives their motor car on a 300-mile round trip between their business headquarters in Suffolk and the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood to review various commissions. Perhaps the most extensively driven Spectre belongs to a client in Slovakia, who commutes nearly 250 miles to Prague and has covered more than 6,000 miles in the first six months of ownership. They take particular pleasure in the electric motor car experience – having swapped coffee stops at traditional fuel stations for an elevated pause at a renowned café with a fast charger.
On average, Spectre owners drive approximately 4,000 miles per year – a figure comparable to previous two-door Rolls-Royces, including Wraith, Dawn, and Spectre’s spiritual forebear, Phantom Coupé. This means clients technically only need to fully charge their motor car up to 20 times per year. The vast majority charge at home, reflecting the effortless nature of Spectre ownership. Spectre is also predominantly a driver’s car: nearly all journeys are taken by the owner alone, with only a quarter including a front passenger, reflecting the enjoyment of driving this uniquely potent and agile motor car for its own sake.
Beyond its day-to-day usage, Spectre’s dynamic capability is also shaping how clients interact with their motor cars. One client, based in Gstaad, Switzerland, was so compelled by Spectre’s agility on the mountain passes of the region that they ordered a second motor car for use on the Corniche roads of the French Riviera, close to another of their properties in Monaco. Notably, this route was among those used by the marque’s engineers during Spectre’s Lifestyle Analysis testing phase, enabling critical refinements to the suspension and drivetrain to ensure the motor car met client expectations in the very environments where they would drive it.
Demand for Spectre has exceeded expectations. In 2024, it was the second most-requested Rolls-Royce globally and the best-selling model in Europe. It also contained the second highest level of Bespoke content per motor car in the marque’s portfolio, reflecting its significance within Rolls-Royce’s contemporary offering. With Black Badge Spectre now making its debut, this extraordinary momentum is set to continue.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION Black Badge Spectre: WLTP: Power consumption: 2.6-2.8 mi/kWh / 23.8-22.2 kWh/100km. Electric range 306-329 mi / 493-530 km. CO2 emissions 0 g/km.
ABOUT ROLLS-ROYCE Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a true luxury house, creating the world’s most recognised, revered and desirable handcrafted Bespoke products for its international clientele.
There are over 2,500 people working at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, West Sussex. This comprises both its global headquarters and Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence – the only place in the world where Rolls-Royce motor cars are designed, engineered and meticulously built by hand. An independent study by the London School of Economics & Political Science confirms that since the company first launched at Goodwood in 2003, it has contributed more than £4 billion to the UK economy and adds more than £500 million in economic value every year.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely separate, unrelated company from Rolls-Royce plc, the manufacturer of aircraft engines and propulsion systems.
A thoroughly reengineered Jaguar C-X75, created by CALLUM, takes the car to its ultimate road-going conclusion
Bespoke commission blends customer’s wishes with the original designer’s aim, producing a capable, refined and elegant supercar
All-new interior, enhanced powertrain and active aero result in a driver-focussed machine, engineered to enjoy every day
[source: CALLUM Designs]
CALLUM has completed a second customer commission of the Jaguar C-X75, meticulously addressing every element to deliver the most refined iteration of the iconic supercar. Truly bespoke, it follows CALLUM’s earlier transformation of one of the four stunt cars used in the James Bond film Spectre. This time, CALLUM has gone beyond the core practicalities of readying C-X75 for the road by engineering performance, comfort and convenience into the essence of the car. Fulfilling the customer’s wish for a C-X75 that realises the promise of the original concept, the result is a thrilling, engaging and very personal commission of a much admired car.
Working in close collaboration with the owner of the C-X75, CALLUM ensured that each request – no matter how detailed or complex – was expertly integrated into the final build. Drawing on CALLUM’s previous experience transforming stunt car 007 for road use, this new commission using Car 001 goes far beyond the hundreds of standard modifications necessary for achieving Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certification. Car 001 now features a reengineered drivetrain, active aero and an exquisite and contemporary interior that dramatically enhance the driving experience.
“C-X75 was ‘the one that got away’ – a car brimming with unfulfilled potential,” says Ian Callum, who led the team that created the car in 2010 and is now design director and co-founder of CALLUM. “We’ve combined the customer’s wishes with carefully engineered solutions to bring C-X75 to the thoroughly satisfying conclusion it always deserved.”
The supercharged V8 engine is now mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Thanks to CALLUM’s in-house software and proprietary body and comfort electronics, C-X75 now offers the ability to perform as a usable road car or, when desired, switch into a dynamic sporting mode. On command, gear shifts become sharper, throttle response is more immediate and the exhaust system, tuned by an acoustic expert, enhances the experience with its exhilarating soundtrack.
To complement the increased performance, CALLUM’s engineers developed an advanced active aero package. At speeds above 60km/h it provides additional downforce to increase stability and deliver confidence-inspiring handling. An air brake function bleeds in added control during hard braking. For urban driving, a hydraulic front lift suspension offers enhanced practicality. Through extensive testing, CALLUM honed its road-focused setup, resulting in neutral, predictable balance through sweeping turns and arrow-straight stability where higher speeds are legally possible. The original front 20” and rear 21” wheels are wrapped in Michelin’s acclaimed Pilot Sport 4S tyres – ideal for road and occasional track use.
CALLUM’s designers seized the opportunity to take the exterior to the next level whilst retaining the much-admired form. Over 1,000 hours of craftsmanship went into perfecting the car’s bodywork, including precise panel alignment and a lustrous deep paint finish in Willow Green. Combining earthy tones with a hint of yellow, this gentle and natural shade is inspired by the soft muted hues of the willow tree’s delicate leaves. Distinctive touches – such as machined-from-solid, brushed aluminium finish window surrounds, bespoke filler cap and visual carbon fibre accents for the quarter light intakes and diffuser, along with the polished metal grille – contribute to the car’s striking presence. Further subtle exterior details include an etched C-X75 emblem on the exhaust tailpipe and enhanced light diffusion from the rear lights.
Inside, the transformation is more dramatic. The stunt car’s functional cockpit is replaced with a driver-centric, premium environment. The interior features a sophisticated blend of dark green and cream tones, split by a bold and dynamic 40-degree-angled “waterline” that runs through the cabin. “Sporting cars typically feature darker interiors, while comfort is often associated with lighter shades,” explains CALLUM’s head of design, Aleck Jones. “We wanted to fuse those elements in a dynamic way to reflect the dual nature of this car.”
Interior surfaces span a variety of leather textures, accentuated by a prominent metal “Arrowhead Necklace” feature that encircles the cockpit before plunging down the centre console. Three tactile rotary controls, all angled toward the driver, each with integrated touchscreens, continue the theme of clean lines. A wireless charging pad and Apple CarPlay offer an intuitive user interface and seamlessly connect with a powerful, bespoke sound system featuring punchy subwoofers and a crisp-sounding centre speaker concealed behind CALLUM’s signature deconstructed tartan.
The minimalist cockpit is crowned by an acrylic cowl that covers the digital instrument cluster, while all other controls, including the start button, are in a roof-mounted console – a nod to aircraft design whilst ensuring the pure cabin lines are retained. “Clean and beautiful, the interior is simple, not simplistic,” adds Jones. The seats, chosen specifically by the customer for optimal support, are upholstered in supple Bridge of Weir leather and complemented by three-point seat belts for added convenience. The steering wheel is custom-machined from solid billet to the customer’s exact specifications. A digital rear-view mirror, an electronic park brake integrated with the transmission and an immobiliser with ‘blipper’ key are further examples of the lengths CALLUM has gone to transform the stunt car.
“While engineering a raw stunt car into a refined modern supercar with all the expected attributes presented significant challenges, finding the right solutions excited us all,” says CALLUM’s engineering director, Adam Donfrancesco. “Integrating features including aircon and premium audio whilst also balancing the NVH, refinement and hygiene factors such as engineering the door seals to keep the elements out, all whilst ensuring it still sounded mega, was a formidable but thrilling challenge and the results speak for themselves.”
As well as pushing the envelope of C-X75’s performance and refinement, CALLUM’s engineers also embraced advanced additive manufacturing with partner Stratasys. Innovations in materials and processes enabled CALLUM to create complex forms, unlocking more elegant design solutions previously not possible. Applications include a substantial number of the interior elements, such as the sill trim that ingeniously incorporates cup holders, highlighting CALLUM’s ability to blend functionality with form.
This refined C-X75 is the latest in a growing list of ‘bespoke’ one-of-one projects that CALLUM is delivering from its Warwick, UK, headquarters. “Through the reengineering of this one-off supercar along with the electrification and validation of a lightweight sportscar, the limited production run of our own CALLUM Vanquish 25, as well as low volume interior design and manufacture programmes for cars such as the Prodrive P25, CALLUM is demonstrating its prowess at bringing a vision to an on-road reality,” adds CALLUM’s managing director, David Fairbairn.
About CALLUM CALLUM is a design and engineering business that creates and crafts its own bespoke and limited-edition products, and provides consultancy and services to partners and third parties. Combining progressive design with engineering that pushes boundaries, CALLUM’s products and services span automotive, lifestyle, and travel.
Nimble and agile, CALLUM operates from its 20,000ft2 facility in Warwick, UK, that houses the latest technology to deliver: design; 3D modelling, printing and scanning; colour, materials and finishes development; whole vehicle engineering; vehicle development and homologation testing; prototyping; machining, and trim services.
CALLUM takes a collaborative approach: bringing together a team of 20+ talented individuals with experience across art, audio, automotive, fashion and motorsport, as well as embracing opportunities to collaborate with other businesses. Striving to build a legacy through innovative design and engineering, CALLUM takes on projects that intrigue and excite, creating stories that stir the imagination.
Established in July 2019, CALLUM’s founding members include British designer Ian Callum CBE, admired for his prolific automotive work that includes the Aston Martin Vanquish. Through its Next Generation initiative, CALLUM strives to support and nurture young minds and talent, fostering an environment that encourages peer-to-peer learning to ensure CALLUM remains relevant, progressive, and true to its roots.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announces the one-of-one Spectre Lunaflair
Inspired by a lunar halo, where light refracts through ice particles in cirrus clouds
Effect creates a brilliant, ethereal technicolour ring around the moon
Bespoke holographic paint captures this phenomenon for one-off motor car
Creating Lunaflair paint required one year of development
Bespoke paint reserved exclusively for the commissioning client
[source: Rolls-Royce]
“We are constantly astounded by the diversity of ideas that inform our clients’ Bespoke concepts, which frequently draw inspiration from materials, finishes and themes they see in other commissions. Spectre Lunaflair is the perfect example of this, exploring the ethereal beauty of a lunar halo and sparked by the client after witnessing a paint finish on another Bespoke motor car. This symbiotic relationship and cross-pollination of ideas is fostering a ‘virtuous circle’ of innovation and creativity, which is incredibly important to our team of Bespoke designers, as we focus on delivering unparalleled value to those who entrust us with their vision.” Martina Starke, Head of Bespoke Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the breathtaking Spectre Lunaflair – a Bespoke commission undertaken on behalf of a significant client from the United States. The extraordinary and exquisite highlight of this landmark motor car is the remarkable holographic paint finish that creates a captivating ‘rainbow’ effect.
The commission takes its inspiration and name from the optical phenomenon of a lunar halo, which appears as a colourful circle of light around the moon. It is caused by moonlight passing through ice crystals in high-altitude cirrus clouds, which act as microscopic prisms: the light refracts creating a spellbinding technicolour ring effect, similar to light passing through a diamond.
Capturing this phenomenon in a Bespoke paint finish required more than one year of experimentation. The paint chemistry, application timings, and base coat were extensively trialled in order to meet the client’s concept. The final finish is achieved by applying seven layers of lacquer, including a specially formulated pearlescent coat, infused with fine flakes of magnesium fluoride and aluminium. This creates a deep metallic effect under low light that bursts into rainbow technicolour in bright sunshine.
The Spectre Lunaflair concept was partially inspired by another Bespoke masterpiece, the one-of-one Phantom Syntopia. Revealed in 2023, it features a dark iridescent Liquid Noir finish, infused with colour-shifting, mirror-like pigment. Captivated by Phantom Syntopia’s appearance, the commissioning patron asked the Bespoke Collective to create a light and luminous expression of this concept that reflected their fascination with the lunar halo phenomenon.
This cross-pollination of ideas, where a previous commission directly informs and inspires a completely new concept and story, speaks to the power of Bespoke. For the marque’s Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople, this virtuous creative circle and interconnection of ideas constantly provides new opportunities for the advancement of their art.
Spectre Lunaflair’s dramatic coachwork is complemented by a fully Bespoke interior. It includes Navy Blue, White, and Peony Pink tones, recalling the spectrum of hues that can be witnessed during a lunar halo. The colour scheme appears on the seats, doors and the Starlight Headliner. This theme is also carried onto the dual-tone steering wheel, with a Navy Blue outer and an Arctic White inner side.
Only one Spectre Lunaflair will ever be produced. The unique Lunaflair paint finish is reserved exclusively for the commissioning patron.
Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore reflects new codes of luxury among marque’s bold, youthful clients
Bespoke Semaphore Yellow paint inspired by informal elegance of coastal California
Dramatic ‘Marbled Paint Spill’ bonnet took 160 hours of development
Bespoke digital instrument dials match vivid yellow colourway
High-gloss Cashmere Grey wood set incorporates a subtle metallic finish
Debut on Friday 16 August at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, at Monterey Car Week 2024
Only one Spectre Semaphore to be built globally
[source: Rolls-Royce]
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveils Spectre Semaphore, a Bespoke one-of-one commission that will make its global debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, on 16 August, during the 2024 Monterey Car Week in California. This highly Bespoke expression of Rolls-Royce Spectre captures the bold new codes of luxury being established by the marque’s confident, youthful client base.
The exterior coachwork is finished in Bespoke Semaphore Yellow – the colour from which this commission takes its name. This solid hue is further elevated with a unique artwork on the bonnet, inspired by the informal elegance of coastal California. Named ‘Marbled Paint Spill’, the graphic is an abstract tribute to the Golden State and its diverse environment. From the sunshine of Southern California to the eastern silver mountain tops, the Bespoke artisans have brought this inspiration to reality.
To create this motif, Rolls-Royce craftspeople applied silver lacquer and multiple layers of clearcoat for a seamless finish. The bonnet alone is the product of over 160 hours of design, development and production.
The bright yellow colourway extends into the motor car’s interior. A combination of Bespoke Lemon Yellow and Citrine Yellow is used across the seats, Starlight doors and above the instrument panel. It blends into the contrasting Grace White and Slate Grey hues with Lemon Yellow stitching. The marque’s designers also leveraged the digital Bespoke potential offered by the SPIRIT operating system by complementing the dials to the motor car’s yellow colourway.
Spectre Semaphore maximises the interior suite’s contemporary design with a clean, high-polish Bespoke painted wood set. Coloured to match the grey material accents, the Cashmere Grey paint is infused with silver mica flakes, which creates a vivacious sparkle under direct light.
Only one Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore will be built. It will be displayed on 16 August at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, as part of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ presence at Monterey Car Week 2024.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars showcases contemporary expressions at Festival of Speed
Collection of Bespoke motor cars presented on Festival’s Laundry Green, adjacent to Goodwood House
The latest iteration of Cullinan, the marque’s most requested model, makes its UK public debut at the event
All-electric super coupé Spectre joins the highly anticipated Supercar Run
[source: Rolls-Royce]
“The Festival of Speed, set in the remarkable grounds of the historic Goodwood Estate, is an important highlight in our annual calendar. It is the ultimate celebration of motorsport, located only a stone’s throw away from the marque’s headquarters in West Sussex. We are delighted to unveil a highly Bespoke collection of motor cars, which have been created especially for the occasion and exemplify the talent, creativity and ingenuity of our artisans, designers and engineers at Rolls-Royce. The latest iteration of our super-luxury SUV, Cullinan, will also make its UK public debut at the event. Alongside Cullinan Series II, we are proud to showcase Spectre, our all-electric super coupé, presented in a vivacious two-tone, as well as a highly Bespoke Phantom Extended and a unique expression of Ghost. We are looking forward to welcoming media, clients and our trusted dealer partners to the event.” Boris Weletzky, Regional Director, United Kingdom, Europe and Central Asia
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrates a highly Bespoke presence at this year’s Festival of Speed. Displayed on the Festival’s Laundry Green, adjacent to Goodwood House, a beautifully commissioned Phantom Extended, Ghost, Spectre, as well as the latest expression of Cullinan, will each provide a unique expression of the marque’s peerless craftsmanship.
ROLLS-ROYCE CULLINAN When Cullinan first launched in 2018, it built a new legacy for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, with a bold and uncompromising generation of super-luxury consumers. It reframed super-luxury motoring, enabling Rolls-Royce clients to experience the marque’s hallmark ‘magic carpet ride’ on any terrain and in every corner of the world.
Earlier this year, the marque unveiled Cullinan Series II, an evolution of the world’s pre-eminent super-luxury SUV. This motor car makes its UK public debut at the Festival of Speed 2024.
One of the key themes in Cullinan’s evolution is verticality, which echoes the illuminated skyscrapers in the megacities where Cullinan is increasingly at home. This is perhaps most apparent in the new lamp treatment, where tall daytime running light graphics ensure Cullinan Series II is easily identified, day and night.
The marque’s signature figurine, the Spirit of Ecstasy, features inside the motor car for the very first time and is displayed in miniature inside the new Clock Cabinet in the fascia. This unique inset vitrine displays both an analogue timepiece and the up-lit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Constructed from solid stainless steel, the Spirit of Ecstasy is placed on her own stage with a matte black back panel and high gloss side panels to create a reflection effect.
Cullinan Series II illustrates the extensive scope of the marque’s Bespoke capabilities and talented craftsmanship. For the first time ever on a series car, Placed Perforation, the practice of creating artworks through tiny perforations in the leather, is available. Designers at the marque’s headquarters created a pattern inspired by the constantly changing shapes and shadows of the clouds over the Home of Rolls-Royce.Cullinan Series II also continues Rolls-Royce’s exploration of textiles with a new rayon fabric made from bamboo, named Duality Twill.
A contemporary expression of Cullinan, finished in a minimalist yet sophisticated hue, Emperador Truffle, will be on show at the event. Inspired by richly-veined brown marble, Rolls-Royce colour specialists developed this unique paint finish especially for Cullinan Series II. An Arctic White Coachline provides a clean contrast to the exterior hue. Inside, the elegant yet minimalist style continues, with a Cashmere Grey and Chartreuse leather colourway, the latter with the intricate Placed Perforation pattern.
ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE 2023 was a momentous year for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; it marked 20 years since production began at the marque’s Goodwood manufacturing facility and, in Q4 of 2023, client deliveries for Spectre, the marque’s first fully electric motor car, began. Since then, Spectre has been on a remarkable Bespoke journey.
For this year’s Festival of Speed, a striking expression of the marque’s electric super coupé has been created. Presented in two-tone Peony Pearl and Black Diamond, this vibrant expression of the marque’s genre-defining motor car exudes modern luxury and symbolises the dawn of a bold new era for Rolls-Royce. To embolden the exterior and highlight Spectre’s dynamic presence and prowess, 23-inch wheels are fitted to the motor car. The exterior is completed with a trim, Black Coachline. Peony Pink and Arctic White are the primary and secondary interior colours chosen to complement the exterior.
The interior cabin is a celestial cosseting haven, with a spellbinding Starlight Headliner, Starlight Doors, which incorporate 4,796 softly illuminated ‘stars’, and a tone-on-tone starlight pattern on the rear waterfall seat. An extra special clock vitrine, delicately embellished with shooting ‘stars’, creates a serene yet magical essence.
This year marks the 120th anniversary of the meeting of The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry Royce and, in a gentle nod to commemorate this significant year, each of the one-of-one Phantom, Ghost and Spectre motor cars created for the event, features a painted ‘sound wave’ design on the lid of the centre console. Each ‘sound wave’ conveys a different inspirational quote from the marque’s founding fathers, whose vision underpins everything that the company is today and strives to achieve.
Bespoke is Rolls-Royce; an ethos which permeates every commissioned creation, from exquisite motor cars to luxurious accessories. This extends from glamorous cellarettes and champagne chests, to personalised umbrellas and picnic hampers. To complement the Peony Pearl Spectre, an elegant Escapism Luggage Collection has been designed and created. Beautiful in form, yet relaxed and contemporary, this luggage collection is crafted from the highest quality leather and durable canvas, ideal for those who travel for enriching experiences and spontaneous moments of discovery.
In addition to Spectre’s presence on the stand, this motor car will ascend the famous Hillclimb course at Goodwood during the Festival’s Supercar Run.
ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM Phantom is an icon of legendary standing, which defines the barometers of luxury. A masterpiece of transcendent perfection, Phantom Extended offers tastemakers a serene and spacious realm to recharge before taking on the world. Its exquisite features and elevated nuances epitomise Rolls-Royce’s artisanship, solidifying it as an icon in the marque’s history.
For this year’s Festival of Speed, a modern interpretation of Rolls-Royce’s pinnacle motor car has been designed and created by the marque’s highly skilled designers, engineers and artisans. This magnificent expression is finished in a striking two-tone of Diba Teal and Black Diamond, with a Black Coachline. Inspiration for this motor car comes from the French Riviera, a location internationally renowned for its glamourous lifestyle, unrivalled views and stunning scenery. There is also a strong connection between the marque and the area; in 1912, Sir Henry Royce built Villa Mimosa in the village of Le Canadel, where he subsequently spent every winter until his death in 1933.
Phantom offers clients an unprecedented opportunity: a chance to showcase eclectic works of art, sculpture, or objects of self-expression in the Gallery. This unique single piece of uninterrupted glass, spans the entire fascia and means patrons can enjoy, admire and appreciate their favourite artwork from the sanctuary of Phantom’s sumptuous cabin. For this year’s commission, Rolls-Royce’s artisans spent over 35 hours creating a beautiful monochrome leather Gallery, with an embroidered wave pattern, which features 47,319 stitches. This pattern is once again a gentle nod to the French Riviera and is replicated throughout the motor car on the door card and picnic tables.
Innovation meets exquisite craftsmanship with the Kinetic Luggage Collection which complements the luxurious motor car. Presented in Black leather, with Arctic White panelling and Diba Teal stitching, the collection has been meticulously designed and crafted by Rolls-Royce’s talented artisans.
ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST Ghost is a study in reduction, minimalism and simplicity. Its purity provides the ideal blank canvas for Bespoke commissions, with clients able to exercise their ambitious creativity and express their personal tastes almost entirely free of technical and aesthetic constraints.
That purity presents possibility. It creates potential as boundless as the owner’s imagination, emboldening them to bring colour, energy and vibrancy to their commission and to allow beautiful materials, expert craftsmanship and exquisite details speak for themselves, subtle and unadorned.
Presented in Blue Crystal over Black, the expression of Ghost created in honour of the occasion, oozes timeless elegance and sophistication. A Charles Blue Coachline elegantly resolves the exterior and illustrates the extensive scope of the marque’s Exterior Surface Centre.
Beautifully crafted leather Key Wraps have been designed and created for the Ghost, Phantom and Spectre.
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TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Spectre: WLTP: Power consumption: 2.6-2.8 mi/kWh / 23.6-22.2 kWh/100km. Electric range 329 mi / 530 km. NEDC: CO2 emissions 0 g/km.
With hundreds of improvements, one of only four surviving stunt cars from the James Bond movie Spectre has been extensively upgraded for road use by CALLUM
CALLUM, co-founded by its original designer Ian Callum, will reveal the revamped C-X75 on 21 April at the next Bicester Scramble, held at Bicester Heritage
Scramblers will be the first to see the now road legal, iconic car, up close
[source: CALLUM]
Warwick, UK – A Jaguar C-X75 used in Spectre’s dramatic car chase has been substantially re-engineered by CALLUM to make it road legal. Its public debut will be on 21 April 2024 at Bicester Heritage’s upcoming Scramble.
Originally created by the Jaguar Design team, led by Ian Callum in 2010, the Jaguar C-X75 played a starring role in 007’s action sequences filmed in the Vatican City. Just four of the five stunt cars survived with this particular chassis, Car Seven, the only one now licenced for UK road use after extensive work by CALLUM’s engineers.
Built by Williams Advanced Engineering for the 2015 film, the C-X75 stunt cars were designed to withstand punishing chase scenes. Constructed around a robust, tubular spaceframe chassis with rally-derived suspension and Jaguar’s 5.0 litre, supercharged V8 engine, CALLUM’s private customer commissioned the Warwick-based team to transform the C-X75 for road use whilst carefully preserving its iconic history.
To achieve the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certification needed for UK road use, CALLUM’s engineers made hundreds of changes including new E-marked glass, switchgear, a quieter exhaust and catalytic convertors along with associated engine calibration tuning. Having previously achieved IVA for other niche cars not originally destined for the road, such as Aston Martin’s DB4 GT Continuation Series, CALLUM has accumulated significant experience to develop low volume, novel engineered solutions. Examples on the C-X75 include creating new wing mirrors with integrated side repeaters to replace the foam models used on the stunt car.
In addition to satisfying the legislative requirements, CALLUM’s craftspeople sought solutions to improve the quality of the bodywork and fittings. Surplus quick release latches, essential to enable access during filming were removed. Panel gaps were reduced and aligned, the carbon fibre surface finish was enhanced, carefully resurfaced and repainted.
The original stunt car C-X75 was praised for its taut body control, sharp steering and agility. Led by CALLUM engineering director Adam Donfrancesco, its in-house engineers ensured the fluid and engaging driving dynamics were retained by making detailed but minor adjustments to dampers and ride height.
“Stunt cars are arguably the true stars, bringing to life the legendary scenes that stay with us as car enthusiasts,” says Donfrancesco. “So few actually survive the rigours of filming, preservation was key whilst meeting the legislation and it’s great we can reveal it to the enthusiastic Scramblers.”
“Ian Callum and CALLUM have been long-time supporters and friends of Bicester Heritage, so we are delighted to be able to showcase its latest work on the C-X75. It is surely one of the finest chapters in his impressive back catalogue, and to see it on the road would be an unforgettable sight,” says Dan Geoghegan, chief executive, Bicester Motion.
April’s Scramble, which takes place on 21 April 2024 and coincides with Drive-it Day, sold out in less than three weeks with over 8,000 enthusiasts set to attend the Oxfordshire venue renowned for a relaxed atmosphere and an unparalleled mix of new and classic vehicles on show across the former airbase.
The Jaguar C-X75 will be located at The Armoury on the site.
About CALLUM CALLUM is a design and engineering business that creates and crafts its own bespoke and limited-edition products, and provides consultancy and services to partners and third parties. Combining progressive design with engineering that pushes boundaries, CALLUM’s products and services span automotive, lifestyle, and travel.
Nimble and agile, CALLUM operates from its 20,000ft2 facility in Warwick, UK, that houses the latest technology to deliver: design; 3D modelling, printing and scanning; colour, materials and finishes development; whole vehicle engineering; vehicle development and homologation testing; prototyping; machining, and trim services.
CALLUM takes a collaborative approach: bringing together a team of 20+ talented individuals with experience across art, audio, automotive, fashion and motorsport, as well as embracing opportunities to collaborate with other businesses. Striving to build a legacy through innovative design and engineering, CALLUM takes on projects that intrigue and excite, creating stories that stir the imagination.
Established in July 2019, CALLUM’s founding members include British designer Ian Callum CBE, admired for his prolific automotive work that includes the Aston Martin Vanquish. Through its Next Generation initiative, CALLUM strives to support and nurture young minds and talent, fostering an environment that encourages peer-to-peer learning to ensure CALLUM remains relevant, progressive, and true to its roots.
CHARLESTON, SC – Amazing movie vehicles capture the attention of viewers in a way that makes them stars in their own right, and the limited-edition Spectre Defender from Himalaya is no exception. The South Carolina bespoke Defender specialists decided to offer collectors a rare opportunity to own one of the most famous Defenders to ever appear in film with the new special-edition Spectre tribute truck. Based on the iconic 4×4 famously featured in the British secret agent’s latest adventures, the handmade Himalaya Spectre is priced at $250,000. (Himalaya’s custom builds start at $165,000 and range up to $250,000.)
“The Spectre Defender uses a rare Crew Cab pickup configuration,” says Himalaya President Greg Shondel. “Himalaya is able to create that very same layout using all-new body panels and frames sourced in England. After that process is complete, our team customizes the powertrain and interiors to the customers’ preferences, as with all of our other builds.”
Himalaya is somewhat unique in the custom-Defender world for combining British styling with American mechanicals. Each project begins with an all-new UK-sourced frame, which is reinforced and also galvanized to fend off corrosion. Himalaya replaces the stock 1961-designed Buick/Rover 182-horsepower 3.9L V-8 engine with modern power, a GM LS3 in this case. This gives the Spectre 525 horsepower for propelling the oversized 37-inch Toyo mud-terrain tires. The end result is a stylish truck that can step up to even the most daring of adventures on- or off-road. (Himalaya’s other engine options include the Cummins R2.8 turbodiesel and Whipple-supercharged LS3.)
Himalaya then integrates a GM 6-speed automatic transmission between the engine and Rover all-wheel-drive transfer case, which is rebuilt with upgraded components prior to installation. Similarly, the axles are factory housings with strengthened internals (the Spectre model pictured has open differentials). Because the mud tires weigh significantly more than the factory-sized rubber, Himalaya upgrades the brakes with larger Wilwood discs and is currently co-engineering a premium braking system with Brembo. Steering is bolstered with dependable Jeep Wrangler components.
Spectre suspension specifications are fortified as well. Himalaya engineers in four inches of ride-height lift to clear the 37-inch tires. Custom coil springs are inserted, and extended-length control arms are built in-house with articulating Johnny Joints from Currie Enterprises. Ride is controlled by Fox Racing remote-reservoir shocks (Himalaya plans to offer additional USA-sourced geartrain options in the near future).
The bodywork is where the Himalaya Spectre really excels. Because the company starts with an all-new frame that is precision-manufactured to be perfectly square, body-panel tolerances can be made significantly more consistent than original factory. Himalaya goes the extra step of designing and manufacturing their own handles, latches, and catches to exude the highest quality. Liberal amounts of Dynamat sound-deadening insulation and improved door sealing were also used to further assist in providing a more comfortable cabin experience.
The Spectre’s brawny tough exterior presents a slant-back effect, which was achieved with a Safety Devices exo-cage and Front Runner Vehicle Outfitters roof rack. Himalaya further accentuated the angle with a custom bed-mounted rack for the full-sized spare tire. Additional body protection is supplied by a front A-bar-style winch bumper over a Warn Zeon 10S winch, a radiator skidplate, Amp Research Power Step sideboards, and a rear bumper with receiver hitch that Himalaya customized starting with a Poison Spyder Jeep unit. High Beam Offroad exterior LED lighting was also added.
Inside, Himalaya used the factory Puma-level quilted-upholstery trim as an underlying influence. Ruskin leather is the predominate material, and Alcantara was used for the headliner. Other details include Recaro seats, Dakota Digital gauges, a Momo steering wheel, Exmoor interior LED lighting, and a Safety Devices rollcage. Himalaya also installed a premium entertainment system comprised of a Kenwood head unit and JL Audio speakers.
The Himalaya Spectre Edition Defender is just one example of the company’s capabilities. In addition to customer-spec’d bespoke Defenders, Himalaya also performs classic Rover restorations as well as resto-mod builds that are mostly factory-based but with a few strategic upgrades. For more information, please contact Himalaya, (800) 956-9481, drivehimalaya.com.
