From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
The aesthetic design of the Phantom radiator and the importance of maintaining the bonnet's lines.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 66a\4\ scan0223 | |
| Date | 17th December 1926 | |
| To R.{Sir Henry Royce} from BJ. Phantom Radiator with Integral Shutters. At the end of July the New PhantomCodename for PHANTOM I radiator with integral shutters was considered by the Sales officials, and all of us in London feel very strongly that anything which will in any way alter the present beautiful appearance of the bonnet of the RR car is very undesirable. I wrote to you in regard to this on the 4th October, copy enclosed. I am not sure what has been done at WW to deal with this matter but, in case the matter has not received consideration owing to the special pressure of work at WW since then, I hope you will be able to arrange for them now to deal with the matter, should you feel that there is any likelihood of delay being caused to the introduction of integral shutters, which of course are also a great improvement to the front of the car. The RR has been known for so long on account of its bonnet in regard to its long, slim and 'speed' appearance as compared with all the other ugly cars, many of which begin to look like lorries. For this reason we are very anxious to retain the beautiful lines and avoid either shortening or widening. I know how much you also appreciate this point and know you will help us to maintain its beauty. I believe the new cast dashboard, which was suggested, will not alter the length of the bonnet. BJ. Enc. Copy of BJ18/E4/10/26 | ||