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The Rolls-Royce Phantom Goldfinger: A Tribute to Bond’s Golden Legacy
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 1964 James Bond classic Goldfinger, Rolls-Royce has unveiled a unique Phantom Goldfinger edition. Built on the Phantom Extended platform, this exclusive vehicle is a modern tribute to the luxurious 1937 Phantom III Sedanca de Ville seen in the film. Designed for a discerning British collector, this Phantom is both a work of art and a nod to cinematic history, blending custom design with striking gold details for a car that embodies both luxury and legacy.
A Collector’s Dream Car
Commissioned by a British collector for a staggering $6 million, this one-off creation is a testament to Rolls-Royce’s craftsmanship and dedication to detail. With its luxurious interior, iconic gold accents, and bespoke design, the Phantom Goldfinger is designed to be a collector’s dream. For any automotive or Bond enthusiast, this car is the ultimate tribute to Goldfinger, a classic film that continues to capture imaginations six decades later.
A Look Back at the Bond Connection
The connection between Rolls-Royce and the Bond franchise began with the 1937 Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, which starred in Goldfinger as the luxurious ride of villain Auric Goldfinger. This new Phantom Goldfinger draws heavily on the legacy of the original but with a fresh, modern twist. In 2024, Rolls-Royce sought to celebrate this iconic Bond car by reimagining it in a highly bespoke Phantom that pushes the limits of automotive luxury.
Three Years in the Making: Rolls-Royce’s Commitment to Perfection
Rolls-Royce's Bespoke team spent over three years crafting this Phantom, with one year devoted to the detailed dash inlay. The dash is a 3D stainless steel map of the Furka Pass in Switzerland, an iconic Goldfinger filming site where Bond follows Goldfinger. This detailed inlay honors that memorable movie scene. The dash’s artistry and precision are emblematic of the commitment that Rolls-Royce put into this masterpiece.
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A Golden Exterior: The Spirit of Ecstasy and More
The Phantom Goldfinger’s color scheme—a striking yellow and black—is a nod to the original Phantom III seen in Goldfinger. The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, plated in 18-carat gold to add a dazzling, luxurious touch, sits atop the hood. This hood ornament isn’t just a design feature; it’s a reflection of the car’s grand personality. It connects the Phantom Goldfinger to the 1964 film.
The gold detailing doesn’t end with the Spirit of Ecstasy. Rolls-Royce has adorned the car with golden touches throughout, including:
- Gold-Plated Center Console Bar: A custom 18-carat gold bar in the shape of the Phantom sits in the center console, instantly drawing attention.
- Golden Accents in the Interior: Luxurious details extend to the glovebox, where you’ll find a debossed quote from Auric Goldfinger himself.
- Gold-Plated Golf Club in the Trunk: Inspired by the golf club used by the Bond villain, this bespoke feature in the trunk is a unique nod to the film.
- Gold-Plated Speakers and Vents: Even the air vents and speakers are finished with a gold plating, creating a seamless, opulent look.
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Powerful Performance Under the Hood
The Phantom Goldfinger isn’t just about aesthetics. Beneath the hood, it comes with a powerful 6.75-liter Twin-Turbo V12 engine. It produces 563 horsepower and an impressive 664 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed gearbox, this powerhouse drives smoothly and effortlessly. Even though it weighs over 5,644 pounds, this bespoke Phantom offers the speed and performance expected of a Rolls-Royce, delivering a driving experience that’s as luxurious as it is powerful.
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Captivating Starlight Headliner
Perhaps one of the most fascinating features inside the Phantom Goldfinger is the custom Starlight headliner. This meticulously designed headliner recreates the night sky over the Furka Pass as it appeared on July 11, 1964, the last day of filming Goldfinger in Switzerland. The starlight emits a golden glow, adding a subtle yet striking atmosphere that engages occupants in Bond’s world. This touch of elegance combined with cinematic memories is a defining element of the car’s design.
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Attention to Detail: 21-Inch Wheels and “AU1” Number Plate
Staying true to the Bond theme, Rolls-Royce added 21-inch wheels with floating center caps that stay upright while driving. This feature nods to the 1937 Phantom III. The license plate, 'AU1,' emphasizes the gold theme—'AU' being the chemical symbol for gold. This detail ties the Phantom Goldfinger to Bond and its golden design.
📸: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
A Special Car for a Discerning Collector
This one-of-a-kind Phantom Goldfinger was created for a special Rolls-Royce collector in England who reportedly paid $6 million for this masterpiece. With a price tag that reflects its rarity and craftsmanship, this car is a symbol of exclusivity. There’s no plan for Rolls-Royce to create any more of these; it is a unique piece of automotive history designed for an audience of one. For Rolls-Royce, this project was about more than a car; it was a way to honor Goldfinger and create an extraordinary vehicle that merges luxury with pop culture.
Why the Phantom Goldfinger Stands Out
The Phantom Goldfinger is more than a movie tribute; it showcases the heights of bespoke automotive design. Each detail, from the handcrafted dash inlay to the starlight headliner and gold-plated accents, is crafted with care. Rolls-Royce has blended modern luxury with a timeless cinematic link, creating a truly iconic vehicle.
Your Thoughts on This Bond-Inspired Masterpiece?
What are your thoughts on the Phantom Goldfinger and its tribute to Goldfinger? Would you like to see more Bond-inspired cars from Rolls-Royce or other brands? Share your thoughts below, and let’s talk about this unique blend of luxury and film history!
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