Sold at Bellmans – Star Wars Pilot Seats from The Phantom Menace

This pair of pilot seats from the Radiant VII Republic Cruiser — seen at the very start of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace — sold for £1,300.

A Galaxy Far, Far Away… (via Leavesden)

The Radiant VII is the sleek Republic cruiser that transports Jedi Knights Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi to their ill-fated meeting with the Trade Federation. The scene sets the tone for the entire prequel trilogy — calm diplomacy turning rapidly into danger.

On board were:

• Qui-Gon Jinn (played by Liam Neeson)

• Obi-Wan Kenobi (played by Ewan McGregor)

Awaiting them were the scheming Trade Federation Viceroys, including Nute Gunray — and, pulling the strings behind it all, Emperor Palpatine.

These very seats were used on the set constructed at Leavesden Studios during filming between 1997 and 1998.

From RAF to Republic Cruiser

In a brilliant bit of movie magic, the seats began life as genuine RAF aircraft seats. Once retired from active service, they were reworked and dressed for cinematic duty.

As with many Star Wars props, the detailing is wonderfully inventive. Various found and industrial components were added, including:

• Old pipes and tubing

• Engine parts

• Fans

• Oil filters

• Empty gas bottles

• Even Flymo handles

It’s classic Star Wars design — everyday industrial objects transformed into believable sci-fi technology.

Constructed in aluminium with vinyl seats, each measures approximately 60cm wide and 120cm high. They are extremely heavy and have been mounted on industrial castors for movement.

Screen-Used Sci-Fi

Film props like this sit at the crossroads of cinema history and design ingenuity. They’re not just display pieces — they were physically there on set, part of the environment in which the actors performed.

At £1,300, this pair of seats found a buyer who clearly appreciated film history and practical craftsmanship. 

Not every day you get to sell something that once helped steer a Republic cruiser.