June 2012

The Saga of the 1991 Rolls-Royce Corniche Wood Trim and steering wheel (video)

by Rau June 26, 2012

For years now, we’ve repaired and refinished wood trim from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and we learn something new every time. This set of interior trim from a 1991 Corniche taught us many things, but the most important thing it taught us is that people are fallible even if they work for Rolls-Royce…

Modern Lady Article: Interchangeable Parts

by Rau June 25, 2012

The development of interchangeable parts is partly what made the Industrial Revolution so revolutionary. Interchangeable parts are very important in the automotive industry. The latest “Modern Lady” article written by William Rau explains why replacing a wood trim part is rarely the best option…

Bespoke Steering Wheels for Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Mercedes (video)

by Rau June 14, 2012

A trio of bespoke wood and leather steering wheels from 1959-2009 displaying a few design possibilities for airbag, and pre-airbag steering wheels.

Shown: a Bentley GT steering wheel in Piano Black with Mother of Pearl Inlays, a Rolls-Royce Shadow steering wheel from the mid 1960s-70s with Walnut Burl and leather, as well as a Mercedes 1959 220s steering wheel also with Walnut Burl and leather…

Steam Bending (video)

by Rau June 10, 2012

Steam bending is a centuries old technique for bending solid lumber. Steam bending has been used to shape wood for automobiles since the dawn of the automobile industry…