Description

This is a large-format, profusely illustrated history of the Rolls-Royce company’s first fifty years in Australia.

What might at first appear to be just an interesting sidebar in the company’s long history becomes a fascinating tale of the trials and tribulations involved in selling, owning, and operating Rolls-Royce motorcars. This is entirely due to the skill of the authors.

It is clear that Messrs. Clarke and Neely have studied the factory records in great depth in order to bring to light so much amazing information. Every chassis imported new, from the early 20 hp up to the end of the Silver Wraith and Bentley R Type era, is identified with a description and history of each car, in many cases up to the present time. In addition, many cars bought in London and then shipped out to the colony are covered with the same remarkable diligence.

Hardback in excellent condition, dust cover also very good, one tiny tear to bottom of spine but barely noticeable. Book is inscribed and signed by author Tom Clarke; “for Derek Harris, indexer extraordinaire”, then signed and dated 29/08/1999. Rare book.