Ocean rollers
The craftsmen at Rolls-Royce have come to the aid of the RNThe flagship brand of the British motor industry (albeit German-owned) has come to the aid of the flagship of the Britsh Navy.
Taking pride of place on the bridge of the Royal Navy's flagship ircraft carrier, HMS Illustrious is a captains chair handcrafted by the team from Rolls-Royce. The special-made chair was officially presented by Rolls-Royce chairman, Ian Robertson, and a group of Rolls-Royce staff to Illustrious skipper, Captain Bob Cooling (pictured) in Portsmouth (UK) last week as part of the ship’s latest refit.
The chair, which is covered in navy blue leather (with sea shell-coloured piping -- what else!!!), is based on the driver's seat of a Phantom but 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-ests have been fitted.
Says Rolls: "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."
RR chief 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.”
The chair is fitting given the Harrier carrier is powered to a top speed of 60km/h (fair punting for a 22,000-tonner) by four Rolls-Royce Olympus gas turbines.
Further information about the aircraft carrier can be found here.
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