Rolls-Royce 2013 special editions by the quarter-dozen

Rolls-Royce probably has the record for most special-editions by now, taking the crown from the Ford Mustang in recent years. Here we have three special editions, two of them conceived right here in the UAE.

Rolls-Royce Middle East launched “chapter two” of the “One Thousand and One Nights” Rolls-Royce Ghost. It comes with custom two-tone paint schemes, inspired by “the warm colour palette of dusk and dawn.” The paint is complemented by hand-painted coach lines applied in an elaborate Arabesque motif on the boot lid and framing the door handles, as well as ‘1000 & 1 Nights’ hand-painted in classic Arabic calligraphy on the base of the C-Pillar. The hand-crafted Alpine Bull leather has been embroidered with an Arabesque pattern, in addition to an intricately-weaved silk pattern to form the centre console armrests front and back. The same pattern is replicated on the silk embroidered rugs, among other trim bits.

Then there is the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe “Ruby” Edition that features a “Merlot Red Mica” exterior, with interiors fitted out in two-tone “Seashell and Mugello Red.” The theme continues throughout the vehicle with the hand-selected wood, seats, carpets and foot mats. Other bespoke touches include a personalised clock with a cut ruby stone inlay, illuminated Spirit of Ecstasy, personalised tread plates graphics and a twin coachline in Seashell with an integrated ‘Ruby’ logo. The vehicle also features a personally embroidered glove box, with the description “Ruby motif – one of one.” Like the earlier one, this one was designed by the brand manager at Abu Dhabi Motors. But apparently only one Ruby Edition will be built. Of course, Rolls Royce will customise and build a car exactly as you like, if you want another one.

Rolls-Royce also internationally celebrated the start of The Centenary Alpine Trial as the company’s homage to the original 1913 Radley Car, the only surviving RollsRoyce ‘Works Team’ entrant and one of the 48 Silver Ghost’s taking part in the Trial through the Austrian Alps. The 2013 Alpine Trial Centenary Ghost Collection features an exterior paint hue that takes close inspiration from Radley’s Silver Ghost. The Radley car’s distinct black grille and wheels are also replicated. The cabin plays host to Bespoke details that tell the story of the Alpine Trial. The clock displays the stages of the rally and timings, whilst inlays to rear picnic tables and the front fascia express the topography and distances of the Alpine route. The route will traverse over 2,800 km of Alpine roads, passing through Italy, Croatia and Slovenia before returning to Austria’s capital, exactly 100 years to the day since the finale of the original Alpine Trial. The faithful reenactment celebrates the 1913 Trials as a test of endurance.