Rolls-Royce has never been a brand that takes shortcuts. In fact, an essential part of its DNA is the exact opposite. Further proof of this is the launch of the Wraith Kryptos Collection – the latest limited-edition release from the storied carmaker.
Long considered the benchmark of automotive luxury, Rolls-Royce has built its reputation on imposing, grand and ostentatious designs, but anyone who knows anything about luxury knows the real key is in the details.
Unveiled today, the Wraith Kryptos Collection will consist of just 50 cars but what is even more intriguing is that each one is designed to incorporate a labyrinth of complex ciphers and encrypted messages into its beguiling façade.
So secret are the messages weaved into the design, that the answer to what the cipher will is only known to two people – the designer and the Chief Executive.
“The Wraith Kryptos Collection, on first glance, is a statement of dynamism. On closer examination, a series of messages are hidden behind a unique Rolls-Royce cipher. I look forward to seeing whether any of our clients will crack the code,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
In fact, such is the secrecy of the project that the only key to the code is sealed inside an envelop that is locked in the company’s Chief Executive’s safe.
The cryptographic journey begins with the Spirit of Ecstasy (below), which has graced the bonnet of the marque’s motor cars for over a century. An engraving with green enamel detailing introduces the Rolls-Royce cipher on the base of the enigmatic figurine. Below, recrafted bumper inserts draw the eye lower, subtly modifying both the gesture and posture of Wraith, giving this Collection an identity of its own.
Inside, stepping over the illuminated treadplates, the cipher evolves deep into the fabric of the motor car. One is immediately greeted by the accented Bespoke Kryptos Green leather hue, which has been developed to incorporate a metallic effect, set against either Selby Grey or Anthracite. In perhaps the most apparent clue, elements of the cipher are embroidered into Wraith’s headrests, where the customary ‘double-R’ emblem can so often be found. For the driver’s enjoyment, an intriguing screen print flows across the metal fascia, spanning the width of the interior.
As of the launch, no one is sure of what benefits will be bestowed on any codebreaker who managed to cracking the code, but isn’t that just all part of the fun that makes it all rather fun, and very, very Rolls-Royce.