james bond

Incredible Louwman Auto Museum Now Open in The Hague

An incredible new auto museum designed by famed architect Michael Graves has opened in The Hague. The Louwman Museum houses over 230 historic cars as well as world's largest collection of automotive art, all assembled by Dutch car importer Evert Louwman, who bought everything from pioneering autos from the late 19th century to race cars, sports cars and luxury limousines. Most of the cars are rare examples and are preserved in their original, often unrestored state, including the second-oldest automobile in the world, a De Dion Bouton & Trépardoux from 1887. There's also James Bond's original 1964 Aston Martin DB5, as well as the eccentric Swan Car from 1910, a hybrid Woods from 1917, the Jaguar D-type 1957 Le Mans winner, an original condition Mercedes-Benz SSK (above), bubble cars, steam cars, electric cars and more.

Tags: architecture, Aston Martin, classic cars, Jaguar, James Bond, Louwman Museum, Mercedes-Benz, Michael Graves, museum, The Hague

James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5 at Auction for First Time Ever

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos, Auctions, Men's Style

One of the coolest and most significant cultural icons of the 20th century, the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 driven by Sean Connery as James Bond in Goldfinger and Thunderball, will be put up for sale for the first time in history at RM Auctions' Automobiles of London event on October 27 where it is expected to fetch over $5 million. Offered by in association with Sotheby's, the famous Aston Martin is one of only two, and the sole remaining, of the original '007' DB5s. With its "rather interesting modifications" as originally conceived by Oscar-award-winning special effects expert John Stears, the car is factory-fitted with the full complement of operational 'Q-Branch' gadgets.

These include machine guns, bullet-proof shield, revolving number plates, tracking device, removable roof panel, oil slick sprayer, nail spreader and smoke screen, all controlled from factory installed toggles and switches hidden in the center arm-rest. Since 1969 the car has been in the collection of Jerry Lee, a radio broadcaster and philanthropist based in Philadelphia. The car is set to make its first 21st century public appearance at the Bond-themed Midsummer Classic / Thunderball concours and black-tie reception scheduled for June 26 at the Stoke Park Club located outside of London, familiar to Bond fans as the site of the first confrontation between 007 and Goldfinger.

Gallery: 1964 Aston Martin DB5 James Bond

Tags: 007, Aston Martin, entertainment, James Bond, London, memorabilia, movie car, movies, Philadelphia, RM Auctions, Sean Connery, Sothebys

Aston Martins Used in Bond Films at Auction

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos, Auctions

A one-owner 1962 'barn find' Aston Martin DB4 used as a 'test mule' by James Bond special effects designers is going up for auction at Bonhams' Aston Martin car sale at the Aston Martin Works Service in Newport Pagnell, UK on May 22. The DB4 was built for press tycoon Max Aitken (1st Baron Beaverbrook) and was later purchased a special effects designer at Pinewood Studios where many Bond films were made. During filming on Goldfinger, the test car was fitted for the various gadgets – ejector seat, machine guns, etc – that would feature on the silver DB5 driven by Sean Connery as Bond in the film. In 1974 the car was consigned to a garage where it has remained ever since; It's estimated to fetch £40,000–£50,000. Also on offer is a 1976 Aston Martin V8 Coupé used during the filming of the 007 epic The Living Daylights and driven by Timothy Dalton, estimated at £40,000–£60,000.

Tags: 007, Aston Martin, Bonhams, car auction, entertainment, James Bond, memorabilia, movies, Sean Connery, Timothy Dalton, UK

$3.5 Million Hyper-Sub: Powerboat Meets Submarine

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Gadgets, Yachts & Sailing, Sports

After several years in the making, you may soon be able to finally get your hands on the world's first powerboat-submarine hybrid – if you've got $3.5 million to spare, that is. The James Bond-worthy Hyper-Sub from Marion HSPD (Hyper-Submersible Powerboat Design) is finally gearing up for production in time to capture the growing market for luxury submersibles that can be launched from one's superyacht. The latest oligarch's plaything is the first small craft built with the horsepower, sea-worthiness, and range to allow operation on the open ocean, which also functions as a self-charging, autonomous submarine. On the powerboat side, it's a heavy-duty, 31-ft. surface-cruiser with an enclosed cabin. Powered by twin 440 hp inboard diesels for a total output of 880 hp, the Hyper-Sub has a maximum surface speed of 40 knots and a maximum surface range of 500 miles. In dive mode the Hyper-Sub can plunge up to 250 feet, and offers umbilical SCUBA support. With seating for up to four passengers plus a pilot, the craft's 180-degree acrylic canopy provides panoramic undersea views. With an elegant woodgrain interior, leather seating, onboard GPS, auto-pilot and a satellite phone, it's also a pretty luxurious ride.

[via JamesList]

Tags: diving, Hyper-Sub, James Bond, leather, powerboat, SCUBA, submarine, Submersible, superyacht, underwater

$2.7 Million Nautilus VAS, the World's First Luxury Submarine

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Gadgets, Yachts & Sailing

Nautilus Submarines & Diving Systems is offering what it calls the world's first luxury submarine, the Nautilus VAS. The retro-futuristic craft with its lines out of a James Bond film features a bathroom, full size stairs (versus a ladder), minibar, digital entertainment system and standing room ceiling height. The Nautilus uses large flat, distortion-free optics which translates into crystal clear vision for passengers of the VAS, whereas most submersibles use curved domes or viewports which distort the natural beauty of the undersea world and can also create a degree of vertigo and/or nausea. The VAS is also the only private submarine offering the option of a Diver Lockout which allows you to exit and re-enter the submersible while underwater. The Mk III version carries five passengers, can do up to 6 knots and is available in lime green.

[via JamesList]

Tags: diving, James Bond, luxury sub, luxury submarine, nautilus vas, ocean, submarine, underwater, worlds first luxury submarine

Aston Martin DBS Leather Saddle Case

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos, Men's Style

Aston Martin is offering the ultimate accessory for owners of the awesome DBS, its 6.0-litre V12 powered race-bred two-seater favored by James Bond. The bespoke leather saddle case is designed to fit over the car's rear center console and draws inspiration from equestrian craftsmanship. It features flapped pockets for a variety of gentleman's accessories including holders for two leather flasks or bottles of wine. Each piece is individually handmade by master saddler Robin Coleman who has over four decades of experience at his workshop in Warwickshire, UK, and each one takes 28 hours to complete. Coleman uses an array of tools and techniques that have remained unchanged over the last 500 years in crafting the incredibly rich, supple piece. No word on the price but obviously if you've already got a DBS you can afford it.

[via LuxuryLaunches]

Source

Tags: Aston Martin, Aston Martin DBS, equestrian, James Bond, leather, saddle, UK

James Bond Items on Offer in Pop Culture Auction

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel, Auctions, Men's Style

Daniel Craig's aviator sunglasses designed by Tom Ford for last year's Quantum of Solace (above) are among a collection of James Bond items in Christie's London's Vintage Film Posters and Entertainment Memorabilia auction on Nov. 24. The shades, estimated at £1,000 - £1,500, are among the more modern 007 mementos in the sale, along with a poker table chair and barstool graced by Mr. Craig's derriere in 2006's Casino Royale, estimated at £1,000 - £1,500. On the vintage front there are some key items from 1974's The Man With the Golden Gun, such as a two-piece black silk evening suit made for Roger Moore for the film, offered at £3,000 - £5,000. Also from that film are the arch villain Scaramanga's custom triggers for the golden gun itself, made in the form of cufflinks which he used to assemble the lethal weapon, estimated at £2,000 - £3,000. On offer as well are a pair of black leather of Salvatore Ferragamo dress shoes worn by Moore in 1977's The Spy Who Loved Me, signed on the inside in gold ink along with a jocular note from the actor, for £800 - £1,200.

[via Duncan Quinn]

Tags: 007, Casino Royale, CasinoRoyale, Christies, cufflinks, Daniel Craig, DanielCraig, David Niven, DavidNiven, James Bond, JamesBond, Quantum of Solace, QuantumOfSolace, Roger Moore, RogerMoore, Salvatore Ferragamo, SalvatoreFerragamo, sunglasses, Tom Ford, TomFord

The Classicist: Daniel Craig's Custom Rolex by Project X Designs

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Timepieces / Watches, Celebrity Shopping, The Classicist

Project X Designs, a new London-based Rolex customizer, has already won some high-profile fans including James Bond himself - Daniel Craig. Project X, which also produces its own Limited Edition Rolex designs in small runs, began with a custom Submariner and Daytona a few months ago which have nearly all sold out. Two new Daytona models have just been released. Founder Daniel Bourn, 37, also launched the London Watch Company in 2003 which specializes in building collections of vintage "investment grade" Rolexes for private clients. Bourn is actually a former investment banker who developed an "obsessive compulsion" for collecting rare, modern and vintage luxury watches and decided to change careers.

Bourn launched Project X Designs (PXD), which has offices in Hanover Square, London W1, out of a desire to "provide a service to clients who appreciate the history and allure of original manufacturers' brand name – guaranteeing maximum performance with minimal maintenance – but who seek the individuality that contemporary high volume production does not offer." It's an aesthetic that appeals to celebs like Kanye West - The Classicist reported on his blacked-out Rolex earlier this year - and Craig, a diehard Rolex enthusiast as we noted last year, who owns PXD's custom Submariner.

PXD offers two distinct services via its website: the first, a bespoke service which, like a bespoke suit, tailors a new luxury wristwatch with unique features to the clients' own personal specification. For example, a leading Formula One Racing Team have commissioned a special Daytona - carrying the company logo on the reverse together with the details of the race victory - for each of its Grand Prix winning drivers. Ex Bond actor Roger Moore also has a bespoke watch in development from PXD. The second element of PXD is the introduction of collectible limited edition (runs of 24) customized Rolex watches inspired by the retro styling of the classic Rolex models from the past.

Gallery: Rolex by Project X

The bespoke customization service offered by Project X Designs is the 'backbone' of the site whereby watches can be tailored to suit the clients' demands. At present there are 18 Rolex models to choose from and 19 options ranging from different straps to DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) blacked-out watch cases at £1,650. Clients may choose as many of the bespoke options as they wish - more options are in development and will be added to the site in the future. The super-cool DLC Daytona pictured above from the new series is priced at £10,750 or about $17,500.

Tags: Daniel Craig, DanielCraig, James Bond, JamesBond, Kanye West, KanyeWest, Project X, Project X Designs, ProjectX, ProjectXDesigns, Rolex, Rolex Daytona, Rolex Submariner, RolexDaytona, RolexSubmariner

Bond Girl Olga Kurylenko Stars in 2010 Campari Calendar

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Spirits

Ukranian model / actress Olga Kurylenko, who played a Bond Girl opposite Daniel Craig in Quantum of Solace, has just been unveiled as the star of the 2010 Campari Calendar. Following in the footsteps of former calendar stars Salma Hayek, Eva Mendes and Jessica Alba, Kurylenko appears in a series of vignettes in different locations around Milan indulging in the classic Italian aperitif. Italian photographer Simone Nervi shot the photos, including the image above for December of a Gucci-clad Kurylenko surrounded by Ducati Monster-riding admirers at Milan's Piazza Duca D'Aosta. The twelve images will be featured in the limited edition calendar, with only 9,999 copies being printed to be distributed worldwide.

Tags: 007, aperitif, Bond Girl, BondGirl, calendar, Campari, celebrity, Ducati, Italy, James Bond, JamesBond, Milan, Olga Kurylenko, OlgaKurylenko

Roger Moore Helps Launch "Bentley of the Seas"

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Yachts & Sailing, Events, Celebrity Shopping

Sir Roger Moore, famed for his portrayal of James Bond in the '70s and '80s, helped launched Swedish boatmaker J Craft's "Bentley of the Seas," the J Craft Torpedo (above), at the Monaco Yacht Show the other day. The Swedish boat building tradition is one of hand shaped hulls, rock solid construction and meticulous craftsmanship. The bespoke 42-ft. motorboat takes this practice to its extreme in every detail. The eco-friendly mahogany deck is lacquered 18 times for the perfect combination of gloss and strength. Every detail is meticulously hand finished, from the stitching on the leather upholstery to the finish of the bow chocks. No two Torpedos are exactly alike. Its Volvo Penta IPS engines can push the vessel up to speeds of 44 knots, the hand made steering wheel is from the same manufacturer that made the Ferrari 250 GTO a winner on racetracks and it even comes with a set of silver cutlery designed by HRH Prince Carl Philip of Sweden.

Tags: J Craft, James Bond, JamesBond, JCraft, Monaco, Monaco Yacht Show, MonacoYachtShow, motorboat, Roger Moore, RogerMoore, Sweden

Mansory Cyrus Carbon Fiber Aston Martin

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos

The Pepto Bismol pink Vitesse Rosé Bentley Continental GT by Mansory that we wrote about last week was a truly hideous piece of automotive madness. The exotic auto tuner rescued its reputation somewhat with the carbon fiber version of an Aston Martin it displayed at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The Cyrus as the car is called can be built from either the DB9 or DBS (James Bond's model of choice), with carbon body mods including front and rear wing extensions, side skirts, a front skirt with enlarged air intakes, and a reconfigured bonnet, plus a new rear skirt with an integrated diffuser and quadruple stainless steel exhausts. Interior upgrades include a carbon fiber dashboard and center console elements, a custom steering wheel and two-tone black and red leather upholstery.

Tags: Aston Martin, AstonMartin, carbon fiber, CarbonFiber, custom cars, CustomCars, Frankfurt Auto Show, FrankfurtAutoShow, James Bond, JamesBond, Mansory

James Bond Watch Exhibit to Showcase Ian Fleming's Rolex Explorer

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Timepieces / Watches

James Bond creator Ian Fleming's personal 1954 black dial Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer I (right), the inspiration for Rolexes worn by the world's most famous secret agent, will go on display in the U.S. for the first time this summer at the National Watch & Clock Museum in Lancaster, PA.

The exhibit will also feature several watches worn by 007 in both Fleming's novels and the Bond movies, mainly Rolexes including several Submariners, from the one sported by Sean Connery in 1962's Dr. No to the most tricked-out model, the magnetized and built-in rotating saw blade-equipped number from Live And Let Die (1973).

The first and only Rolex Fleming owned, the Explorer I was locked away in a bank vault for 20 years following his death. The watch made its first appearance in Fleming's novel On Her Majesty's Secret Service, published in 1963. Fleming wrote that "[Bond] could not just wear a watch. It had to be a Rolex."

[via Duncan Quinn]

Tags: 007, Ian Fleming, IanFleming, James Bond, JamesBond, Rolex, Rolex Submariner, RolexSubmariner, Sean Connery, SeanConnery

Megan Fox Says No to Being a Bond Girl

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Stunning actress Megan Fox has reportedly turned down the chance to star alongside Daniel Craig as the next Bond girl. The Transformers starlet was apparently offered the role in the upcoming "Bond 23" but didn't think it measured up to her talents. A source tells the U.K. Daily Star that Fox would "rather be a more central part of the movie." Perhaps she's holding out for the part of the villain? While many actresses who've been part of James Bond's coterie of lovely ladies have gone on to greater fame, many equally well-known women have turned down the chance to be his bed mate. Sienna Miller, Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron all turned down the role of Vesper Lynd in 2006's Casino Royale that eventually went to Eva Green. Check out video footage from Fox's sizzling photo shoot for GQ (above) after the jump.

Tags: celebrity, Daniel Craig, DanielCraig, James Bond, JamesBond, Megan Fox, MeganFox

Continue reading “Megan Fox Says No to Being a Bond Girl”

The World's Most Expensive Lighter for $79,000

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Writing Instruments, Men's Style

The venerable Parisian luxury goods firm of S.T. Dupont has come out with the world's most expensive lighter (right) priced at $79,000.

The Ligne 2 Champagne lighter, part of Dupont's Prestige Collection, is made of solid 18-carat white gold embellished with 468 brilliant-cut diamonds.

Also available is a matching fountain pen in solid 18-carat white gold as well with rhodium finished trims and 502 brilliant-cut diamonds for $74,000.

S.T. Dupont, founded in Paris in 1872 by Simon Tissot Dupont, made bespoke pieces for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Windsor . Daniel Craig also carried Dupont accessories as James Bond in Casino Royale.

[via JustLuxe]

Tags: diamonds, Duke of Windsor, DukeOfWindsor, fountain pen, FountainPen, gold, James Bond, JamesBond, lighter, Paris, S.T. Dupont, S.t.Dupont, white gold, WhiteGold, worlds most expensive, WorldsMostExpensive

James Bond's Lotus Up for Sale

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos, Auctions

A Lotus Esprit Turbo (above) driven by Roger Moore as James Bond in 1981's For Your Eyes Only is being auctioned off in England this weekend. The copper metallic car with a ski rack fitted to the rear louvers is expected to fetch up to $200,000 at Coys' Blenheim Palace sale in Oxfordshire on Saturday the 18th. While not as iconic as the amphibious white Lotus Esprit driven by Bond in 1977's The Spy Who Loved Me - which as we reported previously went on the auction block last year - it's still an incredible piece of 007 memorabilia for any collector. The car on offer was previously sold in 2006 for $210,000, making it officially the world's most expensive Lotus Esprit Turbo.

Source

Tags: 007, Coys, James Bond, JamesBond, Lotus, Lotus Esprit, LotusEsprit, movies, Roger Moore, RogerMoore, UK

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