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).
Letter to a supplier regarding severe criticisms of the tyre pump's appearance and finish for the 3 1/2 litre Bentley car.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 149\5\ scan0156 | |
| Date | 19th October 1933 | |
| 82 99 3 Experimental Dept. Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/Lid.{A. J. Lidsey}12/KT. Oct 19th 1933. Messrs Kinsman Ltd., Bond Street, Stirchley, B'ham. Dear Sirs, As you are doubtless aware, we are supplying your tyre pumps as a standard accessory with the 3 1/2 litre Bentley car. We have received some very severe criticisms regarding its appearance, it has been said that it is unworthy of the car. The details criticised are the finish of the barrel, the wire foot grips and the wooden handle. There is of course no question of the efficiency of the pump. We realise that the pump is not costly and in view of this we cannot expect a high finish; we are however prepared to pay a higher price if we can obtain a better finish. It is suggested that the barrel be either chromium or nickel plated, at the moment the enamel used is scraped off very quickly by the spring steel clips which are used to carry the pump on the car. With regard to the foot grip and the handle, we shall be pleased if you can offer us something which looks a litte more pretentious. We admit they do their job, but they look very cheap. We shall be pleased if you will give this matter your attention with a view to being able to submit a sample improved pump at an early date. Yours faithfully, FOR ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED. | ||