Rolls-Royce puts dragons on Phantoms for the Chinese New Year

Rolls-Royce is commemorating the 2012 Chinese New Year with a Year of the Dragon Collection of limited-edition Phantoms boasting dragon-themed detailing.

The Bespoke design team at Rolls-Royce drew inspiration from the dragon of the Chinese zodiac--symbolizing power, prosperity and good fortune--for which this year will be named. A collection of Phantoms will be detailed as follows.

First, twin golden dragons will be hand-painted symmetrically on the side of each Phantom wheelbase, looking forward. The dragon coachline draws inspiration from the Forbidden City in Beijing, according to Rolls-Royce.

Next, each car gets hand-embroidered dragon designs on leather headrests, using a color combination of tan, gold, black and white. The color choices are meant to complement the recommended leather options, and additional seat piping is available.

A dragon inlay is then hand-laid to the passenger-side panel of every car, and the Phantom model name is applied in gold to match. Rear passengers get two hand-stitched cushions with embroidered double R-R logos and piping to go with the chosen interior.

Lastly, the door sills on each Phantom in the collection get illuminated tread plates with "Year of the Dragon 2012" highlighted in LED lighting.

"The Bespoke team is privileged to commemorate the Chinese Year of the Dragon with this exciting collection," said Bespoke manager Thomas G. Jefferson. "This limited-edition car embodies the synergy of craftsmanship, creativity and culture in a manner that is uniquely Rolls-Royce."

By Michelle Koueiter