Photo Story

Photos: Rolls-Royce unveils limited edition ‘Goddess car’ — Phantom Scintilla

The Phantom Scintilla, limited to just ten units, is a masterpiece that merges unparalleled craftsmanship with an aura of exclusivity.

Published: Aug 19, 2024 06:59 AM EST

Sujita Sinha

9 days ago

Rolls-Royce's Phantom Scintilla.

Rolls-Royce

In an industry where automotive design frequently prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, Rolls-Royce emerges as a symbol of opulence and artistic flair.

The Phantom Scintilla, often dubbed the ‘Goddess car,’ epitomizes this ideal, merging unparalleled craftsmanship with an aura of exclusivity.

Limited to just ten units, the Phantom Scintilla is not merely a vehicle but a masterpiece of engineering, celebrating its divine inspiration through intricate design and unparalleled artistry.

Through its intricate design, unparalleled craftsmanship, and homage to the Spirit of Ecstasy, Rolls-Royce has once again set a new standard for automotive excellence.

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The mythology of the spirit of ecstasy
The name "Scintilla" is derived from the Latin word for 'spark,' capturing the initial burst of inspiration behind the Rolls-Royce brand’s iconic mascot. This mascot, the Spirit of Ecstasy, traces its origins to the ancient Greek statue known as the Winged Victory of Samothrace, discovered on the island of Paros. The grandeur and elegance of this statue deeply influenced the design of the Spirit of Ecstasy by Charles Sykes, who has been adorning the front of Rolls-Royce cars since 1910. The Spirit of Ecstasy symbolizes a fleeting moment of beauty that leaves an indelible mark, much like the Phantom Scintilla itself. This special edition pays tribute to the Spirit of Ecstasy by incorporating pure white ceramic into its design for the first time ever. This white ceramic finish closely mimics the Parian marble of the Nike statue, adding a layer of historical and aesthetic significance to the vehicle. The choice of this material influences every facet of the car, from its color scheme to its intricate embroidery.
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An exterior embellished as art
The Phantom Scintilla's exterior is akin to a grand canvas, adorned with a sophisticated two-tone color scheme that pays homage to the Aegean Sea and the marble of the Nike statue. The upper body of the car is finished in Andalusian white, seamlessly transitioning to a lower body painted in Thracian blue. Subtle metallic flakes embedded in the paint create a dazzling effect, reminiscent of sunlight glinting off the water. A hand-painted double coachline and wheel pinstripes in Spirit Blue further enhance the vehicle's artistic presentation.
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Interior: A temple of bespoke artistry
Inside, the Phantom Scintilla transforms into a sanctuary of bespoke artistry. Every surface is meticulously crafted to showcase Rolls-Royce’s commitment to detail and craftsmanship. The interior design draws inspiration from the flowing, organic forms of the Nike statue, with upholstery crafted from natural bamboo fibers to provide a unique tactile experience. The all-white skylight headliner is extended more than usual, offering a serene and dynamic ambiance. The use of ceramic extends to previously untouched surfaces, while the upholstery features an extraordinary density of embroidery—more than a million stitches in total. This extensive detailing was a significant challenge, aiming to infuse motion into the static. The coach doors and rear fabric seats alone boast 869,500 stitches, with the intricate door motif embroidered with 633,000 stitches using a complex tatami stitch technique. This motif, combining pastel-colored thread and shimmering lights, appears to glow from within at night.
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The gallery: A celestial masterpiece
A defining feature of the Phantom Scintilla is its 'gallery,' which spans the full width of the front dashboard. This gallery showcases an artwork titled 'Celestial Pulse,' embodying the car's celestial nature. The piece is crafted from seven aluminum blocks, hand-polished to create ribbons that reflect light uniquely, adding to the interior's dynamic feel. A special Scintilla plate on the dashboard completes this exquisite work of art.
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A labor of love: Two and a half years in the making
The development of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Scintilla was a laborious endeavor that took two and a half years to complete. The bespoke and craft teams collaborated intensively to realize this vision. The embroidery alone required twice as many hours as a standard Rolls-Royce, highlighting the model's exceptional craftsmanship. This limited edition stands as a tribute to the Spirit of Ecstasy, embodying the divine inspiration behind its creation.
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Exclusive craftsmanship
The Phantom Scintilla’s exclusivity extends beyond its limited production run. Each unit is a testament to the extraordinary skill and dedication of Rolls-Royce’s craftsmen. The attention to detail in every aspect of the vehicle—from its bespoke interior to its hand-painted exterior—demonstrates a commitment to creating a truly unique driving experience.
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The legacy continues
Rolls-Royce’s Phantom Scintilla not only honors its historical muse but also sets a new standard for automotive art and engineering. By blending ancient inspiration with cutting-edge craftsmanship, Rolls-Royce reaffirms its position as a leader in luxury automotive design. The Phantom Scintilla represents a perfect fusion of beauty and performance, making it a coveted addition to any private collection. In essence, the Phantom Scintilla is more than just a car. It is a timeless tribute to the Spirit of Ecstasy and the artistry of Rolls-Royce. Its creation reflects the marque's enduring commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that it will be remembered as a masterpiece for generations to come.