The Silver Ghost enjoyed a remarkable 19-year production run, validating the mechanical brilliance of the original design which firmly established the Rolls-Royce reputation for reliability. During its century of ownership by a single family, this example perfectly encapsulated the traditional Rolls-Royce qualities, as demonstrated by its rigorous use in sometimes unconventional circumstances – all while retaining its original engine, chassis, and body.

An H-series car from 1915, chassis 17CB benefited from ongoing improvements made during the Edwardian Era of Silver Ghost production. With an off test date of August 5, 1915, its build sheet specified Open Tourer coachwork by Barker, body number 4057. There is also mention of stronger springs with components “suitable for Australian roads,” as it was destined for Melbourne through importer Kellow-Falkiner. Chassis 17CB was first registered to Robert Alexander, a member of a prominent cattle ranching family in New South Wales, joining another Silver Ghost in the Alexander household. This particular chassis marked the end of wartime Rolls-Royce deliveries to Australia.

Two books documenting the history of early Rolls-Royce automobiles in Australia chronicle 17CB’s life, and note that after Mr. Alexander acquired yet another Rolls-Royce, he parted with 17CB. In 1924, it was acquired by Robert C. Falconer of Perth, a successful mining engineer and cattle rancher with extensive property holdings throughout western Australia.

Both books contain numerous photographs of the car, including one from 1924 showing 17CB with Mr. and Mrs. Falconer in front of their Claremont estate “Garryowen.” For the next 100 years, 17CB was owned by the Falconer family. It was first used to transport family members, then later to assist in ranching pursuits as well as the redevelopment of water wells along the 1,000-mile Canning Stock Route. For these endeavors, 17CB was modified slightly, with the folding roof shortened to cover just the front seat and the rear seat removed, allowing the rear compartment to be used for the transport of equipment and goods.

Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, family photographs show 17CB in working livery on treks throughout northwestern Australia, occasionally pulling trailers to remote destinations. Such use required an engine rebuild during the 1960s, but its original engine and gearbox were retained, maintaining 17CB’s status as a matching-numbers car. The car later passed to Robert Falconer’s sons – James, George, and Robert Jr. – and by the 1970s was in the possession of grandson David Falconer. Chassis 17CB remained visible in the area, participating in many RROCA functions including the 1997 Federal Rally in Perth, racking up another 250 miles to its credit at this event.

After 100 years of Falconer family ownership, the car was acquired by its current owner and shipped to the US. While evidence of its use as a workhorse is apparent, 17CB remains in sound original condition thanks to the arid climate of western Australia. Aside from alterations to the top, the original Barker tourer coachwork has not been modified. The rear top bows and rear door handles – removed when 17CB was configured for hauling – remain with the car, as do the front light brackets, spare parts, and various tools. Stampings documenting its original chassis, engine, drivetrain, and body are visible, validating the original components still found on this automotive time capsule.

Chassis 17CB is in running order, but will require additional mechanical attention prior to regular use. This car’s rich history is largely unknown to enthusiasts outside of Australia, providing its next owner with numerous automotive opportunities, ranging from recognition of its originality to touring adventures once fully sorted. Full restoration would allow for concours participation and broader recognition as an exceptionally rare Edwardian Silver Ghost still retaining its original mechanical components, as well as its handsome Barker open tourer coachwork.

Silver Ghosts are lauded for their reliability, but no other example boasts this combination of originality, limited ownership, and fascinating history. A variety of automotive adventures await its next owner, who will have the rare opportunity to augment its lore as a proven example of the Best Car in the World.

*Please note that this vehicle has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to road use.