1976 – Rolls-Royce Corniche (formerly owned by César)

French vehicle registration document 

A rare left-hand drive French version, with over €29,000 worth of work carried out by specialists Prestige Automotiv. 

The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Two Doors was unveiled in March 1966. Developed in collaboration with the London-based coachbuilder H.J. Mulliner Park Ward, this elegant two-door version retains the core technical specifications and luxury of the saloon whilst boasting a more exclusive silhouette.

In 1971, the model became independent from the Silver Shadow range and adopted the name Corniche. This development was accompanied by several improvements, followed by a second series launched in 1977 incorporating various technical and aesthetic enhancements. Produced mainly for export markets, the Corniche Coupé appealed to a wealthy clientele willing to wait, sometimes for several years, for their vehicle to be delivered. Discontinued in 1980, a total of 1,658 units were produced across all versions.

As its number plate attests, this Corniche was imported into France by Franco-Britannic. According to a certificate from the expert Maurice Sauzay, it was reportedly delivered to Raymond Haboud, who was resident in Tehran, but ultimately never left France. It then reappeared in Cannes in 1985, before being sold to the famous sculptor César Baldaccini in 1988. He in turn sold it to a property developer from Lyon, who kept it for seven years before it became part of his seized assets and was put up for auction. Acquired on that occasion by a previous owner, he kept it for 18 years but used it only very rarely. He entrusted the car to Aguttes in 2016, who sold it to a professional for over €44,000. Its current owner purchased it in 2018.

The odometer now reads 112,000 km, which is certainly its original mileage. It is in very good overall condition; the bodywork was repainted in the 1990s in its original porcelain white colour. Its vinyl roof and chrome trim are well preserved. Inside, the car features the original black leather upholstery, which has developed a patina, along with black high-pile wool carpets. The wood trim was refinished in 2023 and the dashboard is fitted with the original Blaupunkt car radio.

In recent years, the car has been serviced by the specialist Prestig Automotiv, with over €29,000 spent on keeping it in good condition. The engine and gearbox were removed to replace all the seals and various peripheral components. The air conditioning compressor and the front shock absorbers have also been replaced. A final service was carried out prior to sale at a cost of over €4,200. With its unique history, excellent condition and meticulous maintenance, this Rolls-Royce Corniche deserves the attention of the most discerning collectors.