Rolls-Royce 20HP Saloon 1924

Manufactured by Rolls-Royce in Derby, UK, this 1924 Twenty 20HP spent just five years in Britain before making its way to Australia, where it entered the ownership of the Upjohn family—remarkably, it has remained with them ever since. That’s 96 years of continuous family ownership, quite possibly an Australian record.

Unlike most examples imported as rolling chassis for local coachwork, this Twenty arrived complete with a Windovers open touring body. Its first Australian owner, Charles Trescowthick, was a renowned bootmaker, and his son Ivor would go on to found the Julius Marlow footwear brand.

By 1928 the car had changed hands briefly, registered at one point as VIC 17 and owned by Agnes Lory, before passing to Charles Shmith, Chairman of Ruskin Motor Bodies. Shmith had the Rolls rebodied in a Park Ward–style saloon by Melbourne Motor Body, a Ruskin subsidiary. The following year, in 1929, it was purchased by distinguished Melbourne surgeon William Upjohn—later Sir William—who would drive it daily for the next 50 years.

From his consulting rooms in Collins Street to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, St Andrews Hospital, and regional hospitals across Victoria, the Twenty 20HP became a familiar sight. It is even believed to be the Rolls-Royce depicted outside Sir William’s rooms in Clarice Beckett’s 1931 painting Collins Street Evening.

Also Chancellor of Melbourne University, Sir William continued to drive the car until his passing in 1979 at the age of 90. Ownership then transferred to his son John, himself a leading medical practitioner, who commenced a full restoration. In poor condition at the time, the car underwent extensive refurbishment by noted specialists Robert McDermott and, later, Nick Simms, who has also overseen its ongoing care. During this restoration, the roofline was raised by two inches and the rear window reduced in size.

Following John Upjohn’s passing three years ago, the family has now made the difficult decision to part with their treasured Rolls-Royce.

Today, this 1924 Rolls-Royce Twenty 20HP is presented in excellent condition. With nearly a century of documented family history and distinguished provenance, it is being offered for sale for the very first time in almost 100 years.

C/N: GH65