1937 Phantom III by H.J. Mulliner
1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III – Chassis #3BU42
Chassis #3BU42, a 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, was delivered from the Rolls-Royce factory in Derby on October 15, 1937. Designed for both luxury and performance, the Phantom III was the pinnacle of Rolls-Royce engineering, featuring an advanced 7.3-litre V12 engine that provided exceptional smoothness and effortless power for long-distance touring.
The bare chassis was sent to the esteemed coachbuilder H.J. Mulliner on October 20, 1937, where it was fitted with bespoke Sports Limousine coachwork. Mulliner’s design for #3BU42 is a striking example of Art Deco elegance, characterized by flowing lines and meticulous craftsmanship. This particular example was also equipped with separate radios for the front and rear compartments, an unusual luxury for the era.
The completed car was delivered to its first owner, Anthony Hornby (later Sir Anthony), in early 1938, registered as ELV 220. Hornby, a prominent City businessman and senior partner at stockbrokers Cazenove, was known for his keen interest in fine automobiles and private art collecting. The original invoice from Jack Barclay Ltd, London, shows that he purchased the Phantom III for £2,783 15s 4d, with a £1,350 part-exchange allowance for his Phantom II predecessor.
A Well-Preserved Piece of Automotive History
After passing through several owners, the Phantom III was acquired by Stanley Barraclough in 1978. A dedicated Rolls-Royce enthusiast, Barraclough invested £34,000 in restoration, including an engine rebuild, interior re-trim, front suspension refurbishment, and chromework restoration. Tragically, he passed away in a road accident, and his collection of fine Rolls-Royces and Bentleys was auctioned by Sotheby’s in 1996.
The car was then acquired by Robert Furniss Riding, a respected collector and former Group Treasurer of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Under his ownership, #3BU42 became an award-winning example, earning accolades such as:
- “Best Overall Car” at the 2000 Loire Valley Phantom Rally, covering 1,300 miles
- “Car of the Show” at the 2013 Gawsworth Hall Vintage & Classic Rally
Between 2010 and 2012, Riding invested £88,000 in further restoration, carried out by Phantom III specialist M.J. Pickles. This included:
- Engine overhaul
- Relined clutch
- Re-cored radiator
- Brake system refurbishment
- Front hub restoration
- Bodywork refinements & paintwork improvements
- Renovated fuel tank
- Complete exhaust system replacement
An Exceptional Collector’s Car
This elegant Phantom III retains its matching chassis and engine numbers and is accompanied by an extensive history file, including:
- Restoration and event photographs
- Period automotive publications
- Copies of invoices from previous restorations
- Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club (RREC) chassis card records
- Technical literature, build documents, and Jack Barclay order forms
- Original sales literature & handbook
- Isle of Man registration documents
Legacy and Charitable Contribution
Upon Robert Furniss Riding’s passing, his estate, including this Rolls-Royce, was left predominantly to charity, with the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) as the principal beneficiary. As a result, the entire proceeds of the car’s sale will be donated to the RNLI, continuing Riding’s legacy of generosity and passion for classic automobiles.
This 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III remains a remarkable example of Rolls-Royce craftsmanship, combining historical significance, elegant design, and a well-documented provenance—a truly exceptional collector’s piece.