Hi all, I have reason to believe (and I'm trying to confirm) that the car in this recent photo (a Rolls Royce Silver Wraith from the 50s) was once Alexander Grantham's (the Governor of HK 1947-57) official car. I'm hoping that someone viewing this on Gwulo.com will be able to verify the car as that of the Governors.
Here is some context: a friend of mine acquired the Rolls Royce Silver Wraith in the photo from an owner in Canada in 2010. The car model apparently dates it from the 50's. He was told on purchase that the car was originally the Governor of HK’s official car during the tenure of Sir Alexander Grantham (1947-57). The car is in great condition and still has its original distinctive two tone cream and black livery. In addition, among the car’s title documents is an unverified but official looking document that says the car was previously the Governor of Hong Kong’s.
My friend thought that I, as a HK person (and being marginally more internet savvy), might be able to help him verify the provenance of the car .
As a basic first step , I have tried (unsuccessfully) to find a photo showing the governor’s car during the period 1947-57. A dated photo would allow at least a visual confirmation that the governor’s car in the 50's was indeed a RR Silver Wraith and of a similar livery. I'm now at a dead end with no other leads (other than Gwulo.com and its visitors!)
I would be very appreciative of any photos or help/ suggestions to verify the provenance of this car or to at least confirm that the Governor's official car in the 50's was a two tone RR Silver Wraith. Photos and/or any official government (or other) records showing government vehicles during the 50s would be very useful. Thank you Kind regards Adrian
Comments
More info?
The Silver Wraith apparently was manufactured from one year before & continued for one year after Grantham was governor. So knowing the model year of this motor could help narrow the search a bit.
"..among the car’s title documents is an unverified but official looking document that says the car was previously the Governor of Hong Kong’s.." - that would be interesting to see.
The Guv's motors weren't registered - or at least didn't display registration marks. Would HM even need to prove ownership with a rego given Crown exemption? ;^)
Dunno how to reach him now, but there is a chap here who might be able to tell you all about the car... what's the chassis number?
-kpl.
There's another thread with…
There's another thread with a discussion about Rolls Royce cars in Hong Kong at https://gwulo.com/media/14513