Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the bespoke masterpiece, the ‘Phantom Synthopia,’ created in collaboration with renowned Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen.
Built on the base of the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, the Phantom Synthopia takes its name from a collection presented by Iris van Herpen in 2018. This bespoke vehicle is characterized by the unique pattern called ‘Weaving Water,’ which reflects the vibrant movements of nature depicted in that collection.
To achieve this, the most technically complex and challenging techniques in Rolls-Royce’s history were employed, culminating in a special Rolls-Royce made exclusively for a single individual after four years of continuous development and research. The Phantom Synthopia is set to be officially delivered to the customer in May.
The exterior of the Phantom Synthopia is painted in a newly developed ‘Liquid Noir’ paint. This new exterior color, created by adding a finish of mirror-like pigments that change color, such as purple, blue, magenta, and gold, depending on the light, evokes an enigmatic and mysterious atmosphere.
On the vehicle’s bonnet, the Weaving Water motif is delicately expressed as if gentle waves are rippling. To enhance the luxurious glossiness, a new technique of applying pigments to the clear coating was developed, which took over 3,000 hours for testing and verification.
The interior of the vehicle is filled with grand elements crafted by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective in collaboration with Iris van Herpen. Upon opening the coach doors, one first encounters the Weaving Water starlight headliner, produced through the most complex technical processes ever undertaken. One flawless leather, selected from over 1,000 pieces, has been used, featuring a precise symmetrical cut and a three-dimensional feel enhanced with a silver ‘Liquid Metal’ texture made of nylon fabric.
Additionally, the headliner is adorned with 162 delicate petals made from glass organza fabric, and 187 of the 995 shining optical fibers ‘stars’ were beautifully arranged by hand next to each piece. The lighting sequentially emits light from the back towards the front seats, creating a moving effect. This special headliner alone took about 700 hours to create.
The Weaving Water theme continues across the entire fascia of the Phantom, leading to a gallery that features 85 petals intricately embroidered, combining traditional haute couture techniques with innovative visual formats. This task was also executed by Iris van Herpen’s team visiting Goodwood for 60 hours of handcrafting.
In accordance with Rolls-Royce’s long-standing tradition, the front seats are finished in robust leather of ‘Magic Grey’ color, while the rear seats are upholstered in specially crafted silk blend fabric. The rear seats reflect a unique pattern reminiscent of light reflected off the water at midnight, featuring a Weaving Water quilted sheet inspired by tufting techniques that involve embroidery on the back of the fabric, adding luxurious and three-dimensional depth.
Moreover, for the first time, Rolls-Royce introduces a bespoke fragrance to enhance the immersive luxury experience. The Synthopia fragrance was developed through close collaboration between a specialist perfumer known by the nickname ‚The Nose of the Bespoke Collective‘ and the customers.
This special fragrance, which combines cedarwood, iris, Patagonia rose, and lemon scents specially sourced from the client’s hometown, is subtle yet memorable, perfectly harmonizing with the various materials used in the vehicle. To maintain a consistent concentration in any situation, the scent dispensing device, based on patented technology used in the medical field, is embedded in the headrest, having undergone rigorous testing in extremely high and low temperatures over more than two years of development.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, stated, “The Phantom Synthopia is the most ambitious, unique, and highly personalized model among Rolls-Royce cars, showcasing the true essence of a luxury house. It once again proves the possibilities of innovation, craftsmanship, and bespoke in not only automobiles but also the broader luxury domain.”
Meanwhile, Iris van Herpen plans to design outfits that will complement the Phantom Synthopia, offering clients a true haute couture experience. The new collection, reflecting innovative haute couture techniques, will take about six months to create and include pattern development, petal fabrication and application, embroidery, fitting, and customization.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr