Are you a cryptocurrency millionaire, blockchain fanatic or a superfan of The Matrix? Perhaps you love sourcing unique, limited-edition items for your collection. Even if the aforementioned doesn’t apply to you whatsoever, it’s still worth reading on.
Here’s why: Rolls-Royce has introduced its new Wraith Kryptos Collection, inspired by cryptography, of which Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke Designer Katrin Lehmann is a passionate fan. Lehmann said “The name Kryptos is derived from Ancient Greek, referring to something unseen, hidden and coded, mythical even. Ciphers can be traced through millennia, capturing the imagination of some of the world’s most brilliant minds.”
This new version of the Wraith, which was first introduced to the market in 2013, has been designed specifically to incorporate cryptographic messages – a recurring motif interwoven in all aspects of the design. Another striking feature is the newly developed Kryptos Green colour that compliments the deep grey colours of both the exterior and interior of the vehicle.
The luxury automobile company in their press release mentioned that only fifty of these cars will be produced, though the price was not divulged. Some estimate it to be US$400K, but this is difficult to assume. Each vehicle comes with a cryptographic message, which is unlocked through the series of clues and codes that decorate both the interior and exterior.
The car’s exterior is finished in a smoky Delphic Gray, is hand-painted with intricate pinstripes in a pattern to resemble code. The Anthracite base-coloured paint is speckled with blue and green mica flakes, which are only visible in sunlight.
The base of the bespoke Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament is adorned with Morse code that has a touch of artistic flair. Also, instead of the signature “double R”, the headrests are embroidered with a Kryptos green cipher, where supposedly the most “apparent” hint is located.
Definitely the most aesthetically pleasing aspect is the headliner design, where again the electrifying combination of green and dark grey immediately catches the eye. A unique twist on the Rolls-Royce starlight headliner, this design portrays a pattern that resembles a stream of data, except with the sparkly touch of scattered stars. All green stitching in the interior also glows in the dark, like something out of the movie Tron Legacy.
The lucky owners will be able to submit their guesses as to what they think the hidden message is via Rolls’ “highly-secure” app called Whispers, exclusive to members on an invite-only basis. Interestingly, only two people have the full “resolution” to the cryptic riddles: designer Lehmann and Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce. Apparently, the CEO keeps the answer in a sealed envelope in a safe in his Goodwood office.