Rolls-Royce and Hermès collaborate on a stoneware-themed Phantom that’s built like a private aircraft.
In the bespoke world, there are few places that stand out. Savile Row, Naples, and Osaka are home to some of the most prodigious tailors and craftsmen in the world, creating menswear, shirts, neckties, and even umbrellas that are cut exactly to the wearer’s liking.
But what do you do when you want a fully bespoke car with every single detail made under your direction? You go to Goodwood, and you head to Paris. Specifically, to the homes of Rolls-Royce and Hermès.
This is exactly what Japanese entrepreneur Yusaku Maezawa did when he dreamt of a car that would be more like a private jet on wheels. And with the combined craftsmanship of both houses, Maezawa brought his vision to life.
As an eclectic art and culture enthusiast, Maezawa’s collection includes the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat and even the outfits worn by BTS for their Dynamite video. Though it’s his collection of Japanese Oribe stoneware that the bespoke Phantom draws inspiration from.
The Oribe-yaki style was developed in the 16th century, and was used for elaborate tea ceremonies. The style is distinguished by a lustrous glaze, as well as dynamic patterns and colors that set it apart from the more somber pottery styles that were popular when it was introduced.
Maezawa’s Phantom comes in a green-and-cream color scheme that’s prominent in Oribe pottery. It took Rolls-Royce’s Surface Finish Centre months to create the specific color of Oribe green, but the lustrous shine is replicated on the exterior. And in a stark departure from the usual, the motoring house from Goodwood is also letting Maezawa use the bespoke color for his private jet.
Inside, the car is largely finished in Hermès Enea Green leather: from the upper instrument panel, the interior pillars, parcel shelf, and down to the glove compartment, center console, and champagne cooler. The detailing also displays the equestrian heritage of Hermès, using stitching once employed by master saddlemakers.
Together, the two houses have created something that’s entirely unique, something that Maezawa can truly call his own and add to his varied collection. The private “land jet” might not be able to fly, but between Rolls-Royce’s “magic carpet” riding experience and Hermès’ bespoke detailing, it’s likely going to feel that way.
“This unique Phantom is a fusion of East and West, ancient and modern, serenity and exhilaration,” says Michael Bryden, Lead Designer of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective. “It was a great creative and cultural exchange working with Hermès; we learned a great deal from each other.”
“We are really delighted to see this bespoke car come to life after a remarkable journey of creation and craftsmanship conducted hand in hand with both of our houses, “ says Axel de Beaufort, Design and Engineering Director of the Hermès Bespoke Division.
The Phantom sits at the top of the Rolls-Royce range: the jewel in the crown, as it were. But while it’s one of the world’s most luxurious vehicles, it can always be something more, something personal. And in an age of collaboration, this has to be one of the most prestigious ones to ever come out of the luxury world. It’s the stuff of daydreams for most people, but Rolls-Royce has shown that it can take these fantasies and bring them to the road.
