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LOT 18

1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Saloon Chassis no. LSJR465 Engine no. SR232J

Sold for US$38,080 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 18

1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Saloon

1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Saloon
Chassis no. LSJR465
Engine no. SR232J

6,230cc OHV Alloy V8 Engine
Twin S.U. Carburetors
Approximately 185bhp
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Front, Live Axle Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Original US-market, left-drive example
*Delivered new to actress and screenwriter Pamela Mason
*Equipped with factory air conditioning and power assisted steering
*Requires recommissioning


THE ROLLS-ROYCE SILVER CLOUD III

Upon its introduction in 1955, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud became the Gold Standard of luxury automobiles throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. The car represented a huge leap forward in terms of modern construction for the company. No longer was Rolls-Royce solely a chassis manufacturer, and with lessons learned from the Silver Dawn/Mk VI, the new Cloud/S-Series was sold as a complete car, with factory-built bodies, relegating custom coachwork to being the exception rather than the rule.

The Cloud II of 1959 marked the arrival of the long-awaited all-alloy V8 engine. Introduced in 1963, the Silver Cloud III represented the ultimate evolution of Rolls-Royce's groundbreaking model. Further enhancements arrived with the Cloud III of 1963, which included a significant styling refresh, adding quad headlamps to flank the iconic radiator shell. With standardized factory coachwork, a sophisticated V8 engine, and a chassis honed for ride quality, the Cloud/S-Series ushered Rolls-Royce into the modern era. With its numerous refinements, lighter weight, and increased power, the Cloud III remains a top choice among collectors and driving enthusiasts.

THE CAR OFFERED

Chassis LSJR465 is a desirable Cloud III Standard Steel Saloon, presented in largely unrestored condition and finished in its original colors of Astral Blue over light blue hides. Rolls-Royce Foundation records and chassis cards show this car was delivered new to actress, screenwriter, and radio personality, Mrs. Pamela Mason. The chassis card lists her address as 1018 Pamela Drive, Hollywood, California – the legendary Buster Keaton Mansion – which she occupied for many years. Mrs. Mason ensured her car was appropriately equipped with electric windows, air conditioning, factory radio and electric aerial.

Over time, the car appears to have been preserved in primarily original and unrestored condition, now displaying a moderate and consistent patina throughout. It presents a fine opportunity to acquire a desirable Silver Cloud with intriguing Hollywood history. Please note that since joining the consignor's collection, this vehicle has been on long-term static display in a dry climate, it has not been started while in Bonhams care, and will require recommissioning.

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