1936 Rolls-Royce Phantom III
1936 Rolls-Royce Phantom III
Airline Saloon by Freestone & Webb
Chassis No.: 3 AZ 68 / 3AZ68
Registration No.: DGH 7
Engine: V12 OHV, 7.338 cc
Body: Airline Saloon by Freestone & Webb
Year: 1936
A Vision of Streamlined Elegance
The Rolls-Royce Phantom III, introduced in 1935, was the pinnacle of pre-war British engineering and the most outstanding luxury automobile of its era. Succeeding the Phantom II, which had reached the limits of its development with a six-cylinder engine, the Phantom III adopted a 7.3-litre V12—a natural evolution for Rolls-Royce given the company’s extensive experience with V12 aero engines, including those powering the legendary Supermarine S6B seaplanes.
Designed to rival the multi-cylinder American giants like the V16 Cadillac and V12 Hispano-Suiza, the Phantom III was praised by The Motor magazine as "a car which is a joy to handle and which, in its perfection of workmanship and finish, is also an example of engineering at its finest level."
Chassis 3 AZ 68: Rich Provenance & Distinction
This particular Phantom III, chassis number 3 AZ 68, features the rare and desirable Airline coachwork by Freestone & Webb. A masterclass in Art Deco elegance and aerodynamic form, this body style was considered extremely avant-garde in its day.
Originally delivered to the wife of Sir John Leigh, this Phantom III was later acquired in 1951 by Mr. Cook from Paddon Bros. Enamoured with its unique streamlined design at a time when coachwork was often uninspired, Mr. Cook became its long-term custodian.
In 1955, the car underwent a major mechanical overhaul at Hythe Road under the direction of the late Mr. Messervy. This work included substantial upgrades to the running gear and exhaust system, further improving its V12 performance. Around this time, Mr. Cook had the car refinished in his signature soft blue—a hue that became synonymous with his fleet.
Award-Winning Pedigree
This exceptional Rolls-Royce earned the distinction of "Best Phantom III" at Goodwood in 1955, a testament to its refined aesthetics, originality, and mechanical excellence. In 1967, it secured the coveted title of "Best Phantom" overall with the registration 3 AZ 68—a moment of triumph in the concours scene and a reflection of the car’s unrivalled appeal.
A Timeless Masterpiece
This Phantom III Airline Saloon combines the technical sophistication of Rolls-Royce’s first V12 with some of the most distinctive coachwork of the period. With a celebrated show history, exceptional provenance, and timeless design, this car presents a unique opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic examples of the Phantom III ever built.