Rolls-Royce at Helm of UK Royal Navy Flagship

Press Release

Rolls-Royce special captain's chair

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has made a special captain’s chair for HMS Illustrious – the flagship of the Royal Navy. It was officially presented by Rolls-Royce chairman, Ian Robertson, and a group of Rolls-Royce staff to Captain Bob Cooling and his crew in Portsmouth yesterday, as part of the ship’s refurbishment.

The chair, which is appropriately finished in the finest navy blue leather with sea shell-coloured piping, was handcrafted by Rolls-Royce engineers and craftspeople at the company’s world headquarters in Goodwood. It is based on the front seat originally designed for the best-selling Rolls-Royce Phantom and has been specially adapted for its sea-faring role.

The interlinked Rolls-Royce monogram is embroidered on both sides of the headrest and specially modified arm-rests have been fitted. The seat has been engineered to allow a full range of electrical adjustment to ensure optimum comfort at all times. A wood veneered table features in the rear of the chair and a plaque has also been fitted to mark the occasion.

Ian Robertson said: “It is an honour and a pleasure for all of the Goodwood team to have made this special chair for such a magnificent aircraft carrier. It is a thrill for all of us to see it take pride of place on the bridge.” Captain Cooling remarked: “On behalf of HMS Illustrious, I am delighted to take ownership of this unique chair and secure our links with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. It marks an important relationship between the Royal Navy and the wider Rolls-Royce community and demonstrates the enduring strength of such a British marque.”