On this day, 110 years ago, Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry Royce shook hands for the first time, laying the groundwork for one of the world’s most iconic automotive marques. Rolls-Royce was officially established two years later in 1906, but it was that fateful handshake on May 4 that put the plans in motion.
Fans of the company plan to celebrate the momentous occasion with two events held in and around the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex, United Kingdom. But don’t let the distance stop you from celebrating. Pop open a bottle of your best fizzy, spread someGrey Poupon on a crisp, and enjoy these photos of the company’s early exhibitions.
1904 Rolls-Royce 10-HP
1907 Silver Ghost
1968 Phantom VI (Queen Elizabeth II had one)
