SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS TO OFFER A FANTASTIC SELECTION OF ASTON MARTINS AT NEC CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW SALE

SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS TO OFFER A FANTASTIC SELECTION OF ASTON MARTINS AT NEC CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW SALE

The Silverstone Auctions sale at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show has consigned a fabulous selection of Aston Martins all with fascinating stories and presented in the most incredible condition.

Early Aston Martins were some of the most classical of all their cars and Silverstone Auctions has four different models and an evocation of one of the most classic of all racers.

Leading the charge is a 1950 DB2 three grilled Washboard. One of the first 49 cars built and still in its original paintwork of Almond Green over Dark Green. Prior to the car’s production, DB2s could be seen in competition in 1949 at Le Mans. In 1950 the car was clothed in Frank Feeley’s classic design with the three-part front grille and significant side vents giving it the nickname Washboard.

This particular car is the sixth DB2 produced and the first of the 49 cars put into production and when delivered to its first owner in Australia he took it various racetracks and the famous Rob Roy Hillclimb. The documents supplied with car detail its competition history.

After changing hands twice the trail of the car went cold from 1991 until in 2003 when the car was advertised as disassembled and ready for restoration and bought by Max Hobson, a leading light in Australian motorsport running their equivalent of the Mille Miglia. After much research, in 2004 restoration of the car was underway to Concours standard finishing on 2009 when the car was presented at the Mornington Rally in Victoria.

The next owner of the car was none other than Vern Schuppan who went on to be one of the most successful sport car racers. Who drove the car back to Adelaide and set about further restoring the car to the highest of standards as he was a very fastidious man and the restoration company equally so. He kept the car until 2013 when it was sold and returned to the UK.

In 2015 the new owner entered the car into the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance not before he did further work to ensure the car was in the most incredible condition and it paid off, the car was rewarded with third place in Class 0-1 Post War Early.

Now offered for sale at an estimated £390,000 to £450,000 this DB2 Washboard is one of the most superb cars that has been treated to such love and attention is now possibly the best in the world.

Our next Aston Martin is the 1965 DB5 always associated with the James Bond films, this car has its own fame as it was the car used and featured on a special collection of stamps produced by the Royal Mail in 2013.

The car was owned by some very distinguished people, in 1988 it was owned by the MD of Guinness and Burger King UK for 14 years, it was at this time the car was returned to its original Silver Birch from Dark Blue.

In 2002 the car was sold and a replacement engine block was used to convert the car to lead-free specification. Mr Irving, the owner, wisely kept the original engine. He then sold the car in 2013.

On behalf of its new owner, the car was featured on a special edition of the Royal Mail stamps to celebrate the best in British car manufacturing. A set of these stamps is included in the extensive history file. Later that year the car was sold again to former Radio 2 Breakfast Show presenter Chris Evans and passionate classic car collector, before selling it again in 2014 to the current vendor.

Over the next few years, he managed to source and locate the original engine block and repair the original engine. Now offered for sale at an estimated £580,000 to £650,000 this Aston Martin has quite a history and is in amazing condition, making it one of the finest DB5s.

Our third Aston Martin is particularly special, a 1984 V8 Vantage Volante. It is one of six cars to have benefited from factory engine upgrades to Vantage specification before delivery as customer special orders. The upgrade to Vantage specification on this car was carried out by Aston Martin Lagonda Special Department in January 1984 just prior to first registration. The increase in power and performance was significant and these six cars retained the slender lines of the standard Volantes without the spoilers and side skirts of the standard Vantage Volante.

When HRH Prince Charles ordered his new Vantage Volante in 1987, he preferred the more understated styling of the standard Volante and a further twenty-one Prince of Wales specification cars were produced, which have become recognised as highly sought after. It could be argued that this car, with its factory Vantage engine and standard Volante coachwork, is the predecessor to the celebrated Prince of Wales specification cars.

Aston Martin Chairman Victor Gauntlett specified one of these six Vantage Volantes at the same time as this car was being built, they are digits apart in the chassis number order and his Cumberland Grey car went on to star in the 1987 James Bond film The Living Daylights.

Estimated at £170,000 to £190,000 this very special Aston Martin has been finished in Cumberland Grey with a cream leather interior and also benefited from the fitting of a manual ZF gearbox. It also comes with a comprehensive history file, original handbook, warranty cards and fitted luggage.

Our final Aston Martin consigned as we go to press, is a 1966 DB6 Mk1 Vantage estimated at £260,000 to £300,000 UK supplied car with four files detailing the cars history and cossetted life. It underwent a bare metal restoration in 2014 with photographic evidence to complement the work carried out. The Heritage Certificate states details of the factory fitted equipment, specifically the Vantage engine and that the car was used as a demonstrator for Eton Garages Limited. This is a stunning example of a DB6 which has been fastidiously maintained throughout its life.

The last car of this release though not an Aston Martin, is a 2013 Evanta DBR1 Evocation built by the Evanta Motor Company which at the time was owned by Ant Anstead of Wheelers Dealer and Love of Cars fame.

The DBR1 was a legendary car and this evocation is now a serious car with a unique provenance. Sold in 2014 to a known and enthusiastic collector who changed the engine from the 3.8 to a new 4.2 high compression engine. In 2016 it changed hands again to the current and high-profile petrol head who stamped his mark on the car by improving it further. Now offered at £50,000 to £60,000.

Guy Lees-Milne Silverstone Auctions Manager commented: “The NEC is a great sale for us and one that always generates a great selection of cars and these Aston Martins are a fantastic group of some of the marques most classic models.”

“We are delighted to be able to offer a collection of some of the most iconic Aston Martins.”

“All these cars are now in our care and we would welcome anyone interested in them to book a private viewing prior to the auction”

Silverstone Auctions are accepting cars for their Classic Motor Show auction on the 9th and 10th November and can be contacted on 01926 691141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car, closing date is the 15th October.

On each day, the automobilia, lifestyle and watches auctions start at 11am and the car auction starts at 2pm. (Remembrance Sunday 10th November, the automobilia auction will begin at 11.05am)

RECORDS SHATTERED AS CLASSIC ASTON MARTIN SPORTS CARS CHANGE HANDS FOR MILLIONS AT RM SOTHEBY’S SALE

RECORDS SHATTERED AS CLASSIC ASTON MARTIN SPORTS CARS CHANGE HANDS FOR MILLIONS AT RM SOTHEBY’S SALE

Aston Martin DB5

15 August, Monterey, USA: The ‘Evening with Aston Martin’ sale in Monterey, curated by renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s as part of their annual Monterey sale, has today seen exceptional examples of some of the brand’s most desirable sports cars change hands for millions of dollars.

This event to remember witnessed an incomparable list of the most significant Aston Martin models go under the hammer, with bidders from around the world vying for ownership of some of the jewels in the British sports car brand’s heritage crown.

The 2019 event was a new occasion for collectors, who witnessed a fascinating and diverse collection of Aston Martin-related automobilia go under the hammer in several hours of exciting and highly-charged bidding.

A highlight of the evening came as a 1965 Aston Martin James Bond DB5 – originally commissioned and used in the promotion of the James Bond film Thunderball - sold for a final price of $6,385,000 upon the fall of the auctioneer’s gavel. After receiving an initial estimate of $4,000,000-$6,000,000, tonight’s result underlines the continued popularity and admiration for this world-famous automotive and silver-screen icon and sets a new record for the most valuable DB5 at auction.

A surprise highlight of the day included a 1965 DB5 Shooting Brake which sold for a final price of $1,765,000.

Andy Palmer, President and Group CEO Aston Martin Lagonda, said: “The interest among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide underscores the enduring global appeal of this great British sports car company.

Aston Martin Lagonda has stood tall at the pinnacle of the British automotive world for over a century. Recognised today for our excellence in design, engineering, craftsmanship and style, we, of course, would not stand in this position without a rich history of iconic models that have helped shape and define what this brand means today.

Thanks to RM Sotheby’s, this event has been, without question, a highlight on the Aston Martin heritage calendar in 2019 and I, for one, look forward to seeing many more sales in the future, in partnership with our exceptional heritage division, Aston Martin Works.”

Barney Ruprecht, Car Specialist, RM Sotheby’s comments: “It was an honour to offer the iconic James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5 alongside our partners at Aston Martin and Aston Martin Works. We are beyond thrilled with tonight’s fantastic result and proud to have set a new record for the most valuable DB5 sold at auction. Beyond this new auction record, the enormous amount of interest in the car and excitement surrounding it ahead of the auction solidifies its status as the “most famous car in the world,” along with the collector car hobby’s great respect for the Aston Martin brand.”

RM SOTHEBY’S PRESENTS HIGHLY ORIGINAL ASTON MARTIN DB3S AT MONTEREY AUCTION

RM SOTHEBY’S PRESENTS HIGHLY ORIGINAL
ASTON MARTIN DB3S AT MONTEREY AUCTION

SECOND WORKS CAR, CAMPAIGNED BY MOTORSPORT HERO PETER COLLINS

DB3S WORKS JOINS LIST OF STUNNING MODELS THROUGH THE DECADES SET FOR
“AN EVENING WITH ASTON MARTIN” ON 15 AUGUST

RM Sotheby’s offers highly original and matching numbers 1953 Aston Martin DB3S Works for Monterey sale
One of the finest Works DB3S examples remaining, car is an important part of Aston Martin competition history
Successfully campaigned by Aston Martin at major events, later owned and raced by Peter Collins
Additional information and updated list of entries for Monterey sale available at rmsothebys.com

  RM Sotheby’s, the official auction house of Aston Martin, is delighted to announce the addition of a 1953 Aston Martin DB3S Works, to be presented during ‘An Evening with Aston Martin’ at the company’s three-evening Monterey sale, 15-17 August. One of the finest of its kind, DB3S/2 is the second Works DB3S ever built and was raced in some of the most prestigious motorsport events of the 1950s, with drivers including the famous ex-Aston Martin team driver Peter Collins. The car is offered at Monterey as an important piece of Aston Martin’s competition history, complete with its original chassis, body, and engine as it left the factory.

The DB3S is undoubtedly one of the finest and most competitive cars to emerge from the 1950s, arguably the golden era of sports car racing when the top drivers competed in the fastest cars on often perilous races, such as the Mille Miglia and RAC Tourist Trophy. A true product of its era, the DB3S was conceived as the idea of two great engineers of the time; W.O. Bentley and Professor Robert Eberan von Eberhorst, of Auto Union. Radically developing Eberhorst’s DB3 chassis, fellow designer and engineer Willie Watson turned the DB3S into a far lighter and nimbler car that was more suited to being powered by the high-compression 3.0-liter version of W.O.’s straight-six engine, giving the model the edge over contemporary rivals. Legendary British designer Frank Feeley penned the gorgeous lines of the bodywork, creating one of the best-looking shapes ever to grace a race circuit, and still visible in the design language of Aston Martin models made today. 

 This car was the second DB3S built by the factory, prepped by John Wyer’s competition department for the 1953 installment of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Though the car saw an accident in its first outing with Reg Parnell at the wheel, just a month later the legendary Peter Collins got his hands on DB3S/2, finishing 3^rd in an all-Aston Martin podium at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Parnell made up for his first go soon after, pairing up with Aston Martin stalwart Eric Thompson to win the Goodwood 9 Hours. In the same year, the DB3S entered the last round of the World Sportscar Championship, the RAC Tourist Trophy at Dundrod. The supreme handling of the car suited the flow of the circuit and Parnell and Thompson finished 2^nd behind the sister car (DB3S/1), with Parnell taking 2^nd place in the unofficial Drivers’ title, ahead of Juan Manuel Fangio, Sir Stirling Moss, and Peter Walker. 

 In 1954, the DB3S would contest the 1000 KM of Buenos Aires, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the Mille Miglia. Following extensive competition, much of the Aston Martin Team cars had been reduced to a collection of damaged DB3Ss, so DB3S/1 and DBS3/2 were rebuilt with new chassis and bodies ahead of that year’s RAC Tourist Trophy at Dundrod. Peter Collins’ most memorable performance in DB3S/2 during 1954 would come later that year at Aintree, where a titanic battle with Masten Gregory in a Ferrari 375 MM saw him just lose out on victory. Looking ahead to the next season with newer Works cars having been built, DB3S/2 was sold to Peter Collins.

Collins registered the car as UDV 609, under which it remains today. With this car, Collins competed in the Silverstone International Trophy in 1955, where he suffered a loose differential but still finished a respectable 7th behind the latest Works DB3Ss and a brace of Works and Ecurie Ecosse D-Types. His last outing in the car was the 1955 Daily Herald Trophy Race at Oulton Park, charging Mike Hawthorn down to finish a close 3^rd ahead of a competitive field, in what was by then an out-of-date machine.

Michael Squire, Car Specialist at RM Sotheby’s comments: “This magnificent DB3S represents a significant moment in Aston Martin’s competition history. This Works car performed at the highest level in the golden era of motorsport, and one of Aston Martin’s most successful eras in racing. Very few race cars of the period can claim to have their original chassis, engine and body from when they left the factory – and DB3S/2 is one of those few. We look back fondly on the talents of the late Peter Collins, who owned and raced this very car, making Monterey an extraordinary opportunity for any Aston Martin or motorsport collector to own and drive a part of his story.”

Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works, adds: “The RM Sotheby’s sale is, without question, sure to be a real highlight of the Aston Martin heritage year in 2019. I know we will witness rare and exceptional sports cars, such as this remarkable DB3S, find new homes with buyers around the world – underlining once again the global significance of this great British sports car company.”

The DB3S would eventually land with George Gale, who kept it for over two decades, before selling to Richard Forshaw of Aston Martin Service Dorset, who owned more DB3S examples than anyone else. Forshaw restored DB3S/2 to the ‘Works’ specification as Peter Collins’ bought the car in 1955. The DB3S has since been beautifully maintained and has seen a number of vintage event outings, including the Monterey Historics, Goodwood Revival, and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It is offered at Monterey in extremely original condition, with its matching numbers engine from its factory sale to Collins and a nearly entirely original body. It is accompanied by an extraordinary history file including original Aston Martin internal race debriefing reports by John Wyer, period articles and photographs, race programmes and maintenance reports (Est. $8,750,000 - $10,500,000). 

RM Sotheby’s has assembled an incredible list of more than 30 additional significant Aston Martin models for the 15 August sale session, spanning decades of high watermarks in the brand’s history. Highlights include:

• In addition to the James Bond 1965 Aston Martin DB5, the Monterey sale features the full lineup of DB5 variations, including a 1964 DB5 presented from 40 years of single ownership and offered without reserve (Est. $700,000 - $900,000), a 1963 DB5 Convertible, believed to be the Earls Court Motor Show car and now fully restored by Aston Martin Works (Est. $1,350,000 - $1,500,000), and a 1965 DB5 Shooting Brake by Radford, one of 12 factory shooting brake examples, having had just three private owners since new and complete with its original matching-numbers engine (Est. $1,000,000 - $1,400,000);

• A beautifully restored 1961 Aston Martin DB4GT, one of only 47 right-hand-drive examples, and equipped with an ex-Stirling Moss engine installed in period by Aston Martin (Est. $3,000,000 - $3,400,000);

 

• Purchased new by the Burton family, founders of Burton and Top Shop, a 1966 Aston Martin Short-Chassis Volante, one of just 37 examples built. Presented in concours condition, the short-chassis comes to auction following a thorough restoration, during which the engine was rebuilt to 4.2-liter Cosworth specification and the car was converted to left-hand drive (Est. $1,400,000 - $1,800,000);

 

• A pair of Aston Martin V8 models with coachwork by Zagato, including the last V8 Vantage Zagato built. One of just 15 left-hand-drive coupes, the recently serviced 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Zagato is equipped with a desirable five-speed manual gearbox, showing just 4,173 km since new (Est. $475,000 - $575,000). The second V8, an exceedingly rare LHD 1989 Aston Martin V8 Volante Zagato, is one of only 37 produced, is equipped with an automatic gearbox, and was upgraded to Vantage specification by Aston Martin Works (Est. $375,000 - $475,000); and,

• A 2018 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Coupe showing delivery mileage and equipped with bespoke “Q” options, including a One-77 steering wheel, Italian luggage, color-matched Aston Martin car cover, and a Zagato umbrella (Est. $600,000 - $800,000).

An Evening with Aston Martin highlights RM Sotheby’s 2019 Monterey sale, which has been the pinnacle of collector car auctions for more than 30 years, leading the field and raising the bar with its consistent, record-setting results. This year’s three-day Monterey sale will once again present more than 180 of the world’s most important motor cars in the ultimate collector car destination. For further information on RM Sotheby’s 2019 Monterey auction and to view a frequently updated list of entries, please visit rmsothebys.com. The complete digital catalogue is coming soon.

ACTOR AND COMEDIAN STEVE COOGAN TO SELL HIS 1970 ASTON MARTIN DBS V8 PRESS CAR AT THE SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

ACTOR AND COMEDIAN STEVE COOGAN TO SELL HIS 1970 ASTON MARTIN DBS V8 PRESS CAR AT THE SILVERSTONE CLASSIC SALE

The 1970 Aston Martin DBS V8 which was the original factory press car is coming to market at the Silverstone Classic sale and being offered directly from the current owner, actor and comedian Steve Coogan.

This is a very famous car and in the most incredible condition, with a fascinating story behind its provenance.

Designed by William Towns the Aston Martin DBS arrived in 1969 as a four-seater V8 capable of 160mph, which at the time was being built alongside the DB6 it was intended to replace. It was a clean modern looking car which was liked by many owners and featured the four headlamp styling until 1972.

This particular car was the original factory press car used to launch the new V8 model and also used by Motor Magazine, who in 1971 took the car onto the unfinished M4 and tested it over a measured mile at an average speed of 160mph, which at the time was a staggering performance. 20 years later Tony Dron who was one of their original testers was reacquainted with the car after it had undergone restoration, a copy of which is included with the car.

When the car left Aston Martin in 1973 little was known of its whereabouts until it was discovered in a field in Scotland but in need of restoration. This was duly carried out by specialists Chapman and Spooner. After it was purchased it underwent further work to fine tune the chassis by John Armitage and the injection system by marque specialists.

Multi-BAFTA winning Academy Award nominee and classic car collector, Steve Coogan, acquired the car in 2011 and has cherished this car whilst in his ownership. It has been maintained by marque specialists Aston Engineering and Stratton Motor Company, with a number of invoices detailing the expert attention lavished on the car.

The DBS V8 is in superb condition, presented in Dark Blue with black leather seats and a manual gearbox. It still retains the Becker-Mexico radio but with the addition of iPod connectivity. The car has led an interesting life and is an important part of Aston Martin’s history. This Aston Martin DBS V8 needs to be seen to be appreciated and Silverstone Auctions are delighted to have been asked by Steve Coogan to sell the car on his behalf at their sale on the 26th to 28th July at the Silverstone Classic. It is estimated at £145,000 to £165,000.

Nick Whale, Managing Director of Silverstone Auctions commented: “We are delighted to have been asked by Steve Coogan to sell this magnificent and historically important car which is in outstanding and concours condition. He is obviously famous for his acting and comedy but is also a distinguished car collector and has really looked after this DBS V8.”

“For us as a business, it is very reassuring that people of his standing feel confident in coming to us directly to help them sell their cars and we are very proud to present this DBS V8 which is an unrepeatable opportunity.”

The Silverstone Classic Auction takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 offering an exclusive selection of classic cars, sports cars and supercars and automobilia. The lots can be previewed on the 26th of July from 09.00 to 18.00.

Silverstone Auctions are accepting cars for their Silverstone Classic auction and can be contacted on 01926 691141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car.

CCA WELCOME THE BEST OF BRITISH WITH SOME STUNNING LOTS IN AUGUST SALE

CCA WELCOME THE BEST OF BRITISH WITH SOME STUNNING LOTS IN AUGUST SALE

Classic Car Auctions sale in August is gathering pace with some amazing lots consigned and representing the Best Of British, there are a number stand out lots. 

One of those is the 1972 Rover 3.5 Coupe with just 20,403 warranted miles on the clock. Having just come out of long-term storage and now recommissioned for sale this car has been in the current ownership for the last 40 years. Estimated at £25,000 to £30,000, this is a totally original 3.5 Coupe P5B in amazing condition with its original service book, sales brochure and tool kit.

Richard Greenhalgh Senior Consigner for Classic Car Auctions commented: “Presented in Zircon Blue and with the beautiful buckskin hide, this may be one of the finest examples of its kind in existence. With an array of original items, this is a very exciting car and we are looking forward to seeing it.”

At the opposite end of the scale, a 1995 Aston Martin DB7 i6 which has had significant expenditure lavished on it to upgrade the car to fast road/competition specification is also consigned to the sale. Estimated at £16,000 to £20,000 this is a very smart Aston Martin and now with the potential for use in club motorsport with the addition of the necessary extras. With just 59,000 miles and only 1,000 since the rebuild, this is a lovely dual-purpose Aston Martin.

The Daimler SP250, which to many is referred to as the Dart, despite Daimler being forced to drop the name after being threatened with legal action by Chryslers Dodge division, is a real head turner. The August sale sees a wonderfully restored 1961 SP250 B-spec being offered. Imported from California in 2013, the car was converted to right-hand drive and had a complete bespoke body off photo documented restoration. Finished in Bentley Verdant Green with a Parchment leather interior, the car also comes with a white hardtop. This is a beautifully presented car estimated at £24,000 to £28,000.

Everyone’s favourite, the Land Rover and here we have in the sale a 1956 Series I 107 inch pick up version. This Land Rover has undergone an extensive nut and bolt restoration and from the information provided by the vendor, this car scores 130 out 135 on the CCA condition report making it a near Concours condition vehicle which is in daily use. Estimated at £18,000 to £22,000 and with a comprehensive history and details of the restoration, this could be a fabulous purchase.

Gary Dunne, Classic Car Auctions auction manager commented: “We have a plethora of British classics of all definitions consigned to the sale, including the usual mix of classics and moderns either privately owned or from collections.”

“We are delighted to be offering the Daimler SP250 which has been consigned to the sale by the owner on the recommendation of the Daimler SP250 Owners’ Club. For us this is best form of praise as we work closely with a number of car clubs.”

“We have lots more cars being confirmed and with the closing date for submissions on the 5th July there is still time to submit your car.”

Classic Car Auctions can be contacted on 01926 640888 or email enquiries@classiccarauctions.co.uk and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car, alternatively, you can also use their online Value My Classic service.

2019 Forthcoming Auctions

3rd August - CCA August Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre 5th October - CCA October Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

7th December - CCA December Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

Images1972 Rover 3.5 Coupe P5B 

1995 Aston Martin DB7 i6

1956 Land Rover Series 1 107'' Pick Up 

1961 Daimler SP250 B-spec 'Dart'

THE MOST FAMOUS CAR IN THE WORLD: RM SOTHEBY’S PRESENTS JAMES BOND 007 ASTON MARTIN DB5

THE MOST FAMOUS CAR IN THE WORLD: RM SOTHEBY’S PRESENTS JAMES BOND 007 ASTON MARTIN DB5

1965 Aston Martin DB5 Bond Car (Simon Clay (c) 2019 Courtesy of RM Sothebys)

RM Sotheby’s, the official auction house of Aston Martin, has announced “the most famous car in the world” and perhaps the most iconic Aston Martin of all time to lead ‘An Evening with Aston Martin’, a special single-marque sale session at the company’s 2019 Monterey auction on 15 August. RM Sotheby’s will present a 1965 Aston Martin DB5, one of just three surviving examples commissioned in period by Eon Productions and fitted with MI6 Q Branch specifications as pictured in Goldfinger.

No one could have predicted the fabulously successful multi-decade synergy that would develop when production designer Ken Adam and special effects man John Stears visited Aston Martin’s Newport-Pagnell plant in late 1963. The two men were on a mission to source a pair of the latest Aston Martin models for use in Eon Productions’ third adaptation of an Ian Fleming novel, again about the MI6 superspy with a license to kill, James Bond. The film was called Goldfinger.

CLICK TO WATCH

Two near-identical cars were built and loaned to Eon Productions for filming, with each fulfilling various roles; one for stunt driving and chase sequences and therefore needing to be lightweight and fast, and the other for interior shots and close-ups, to be equipped with functional modifications created by Stears. As Desmond Llewelyn’s legendary weapons-master Q would go on to explain to Sean Connery’s 007, the Snow Shadow Gray-painted DB5 was equipped with front and rear hydraulic over-rider rams on the bumpers, a Browning.30 calibre machine gun in each fender, wheel-hub mounted tire-slashers, a raising rear bullet-proof screen, an in-dash radar tracking scope, oil, caltrop and smoke screen dispensers, revolving license plates, and a passenger-seat ejection system. Although never used during the film, the car was also equipped with a telephone in the driver’s door to communicate with MI6 headquarters and a hidden compartment under the driver’s seat containing several weapons.

The smash success of Goldfinger was also a success for Aston Martin, which saw DB5 sales surge to fuel an unprecedented level of production. The producers at Eon also took notice of the enormous appeal and potential marketing opportunities. In preparation for Thunderball’s release, the company ordered two more DB5 saloons, receiving chassis nos. DB5/2008/R, the example on offer at RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale, and DB5/2017/R. The two cars were fitted with all of Stears’ Goldfingermodifications and were shipped to the United States for promotional duties for Thunderball.

Reached through his son, Stephane Connery ahead of the sale, legendary actor Sean Connery, who originally portrayed James Bond on film in both Goldfinger and Thunderball said: “These DB5s are amazing – I remember the Furka Pass tire shredding as well as the promotional events with these cars – they have become increasingly iconic since Goldfinger and Thunderball, in fact I bought a very fine DB5 myself relatively recently.”

Following the tour, the two cars were no longer required as the next two Bond films debuted with different, more current automobiles in the hero roles and, accordingly, they were quietly offered for sale in 1969. The cars were soon purchased as a pair by well-known collector Anthony (now Lord) Bamford, whose British registration for chassis no. 2008/R remains on file. The Aston Martin build record lists Eon Productions as the original purchaser, with the important designation of being a “(Bond Car)” noted.

Bamford then sold DB5/2008/R to B.H. Atchley, the owner of the Smokey Mountain Car Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The Aston Martin was featured as the museum’s centrepiece, remaining in a pristine state of display for 35 years, receiving regular start-ups for exercise. In 2006, RM Sotheby’s (previously RM Auctions) was privileged to offer this very Bond DB5 for public sale, in a largely unrestored state.

Since that time, a well-documented, no-expense-spared restoration by Switzerland’s esteemed Roos Engineering was completed. Roos Engineering is one of 13 specialist facilities whom Aston Martin have appointed as official Heritage Specialists. Not only were the chassis and body completely refinished to proper standards, but all thirteen of the John Stears-designed Bond modifications were properly refurbished to function as originally built.

Barney Ruprecht, Car Specialist, RM Sotheby’s comments: “No other car in history has played a more important leading role on film and in pop culture than the Aston Martin DB5. The DB5 is the iconic cornerstone of a marketing relationship that still exists to this day—with the model’s collectable status rooted largely in its 007 fame—and we look forward to exciting car and film enthusiasts alike in the lead up to the auction. This is an unbelievably rare chance to play secret agent in a car that offers incredible performance and style in its own right and we’re honoured to offer the Bond DB5 alongside our partners at Aston Martin.”

The first Stears-modified car has been lost since 1997, narrowing the number of surviving examples to just three. The car on offer is one of only two built from new with all Bond gadgetry, and chassis no. 2008/R stands apart with its extremely minimal chain of ownership, having had just three private owners over 50 years, including a 35-year period of a museum exhibition. An incredibly rare and exciting example of what has been deemed “the most famous car in the world”, the DB5 offers a highly desirable acquisition for the serious marque collector…or secret agent (Est. $4,000,000 - $6,000,000).

RM Sotheby’s will display the Bond DB5 in North America this summer, with July dates to be announced. The car leads ‘An Evening with Aston Martin’, a special third auction evening on 15 August during RM Sotheby’s flagship Monterey sale, featuring more than 30 of the world’s most sought-after road-going and track-ready Aston Martin sports cars from across the marque’s illustrious history. This year’s Monterey sale (15-17 August) will once again present more than 120 of the world’s most important motor cars in the ultimate collector car destination.

For further information on RM Sotheby’s 2019 Monterey auction and to view a frequently updated list of entries, please visit rmsothebys.com. Interested consignors are invited to call RM Sotheby’s global headquarters at +1 519 352 4575 to speak with a car specialist about entering an important motor car in the Monterey sale. Consignments are invited through 3 July 2019.

FOR MORE NEWS FROM RM SOTHEBY’S: #RMSothebys #RMMonterey

Visit: rmsothebys.com

1965 Aston Martin DB5 Bond Car (Simon Clay (c) 2019 Courtesy of RM Sothebys)

BRITISH POWERHOUSES BEING OFFERED AT CCA MAY SALE

BRITISH POWERHOUSES BEING OFFERED AT CCA MAY SALE

Classic Car Auctions sale on the 25th May at the Warwickshire Event Centre will see a number of British powerhouses going under the hammer from Bentley, Aston Martin, Jaguar and MG.

A combined 20.1 litres of British muscle from a Continental Mulliner GT, DB7 V12 Vantage Coupe, an XJR and an MG RV8 will get you all revved up and raring to go as these impressive cars vie for new homes.

Bentleys give you wings and this 6.0 litre W12 twin-turbo Bentley Continental GT Mulliner will certainly do that! Presented in Diamond Black with a Porpoise Grey and diamond-quilted St.James Red leather interior styled by Mulliner, this 33,553-mile luxury motor will waft you around in style and elegance. Estimated at £20,000 to £25,000 this stunning car comes with an extensive history file and a fresh service prior to the sale.

The Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage Coupe is an elegant luxury GT and this 2001 model is presented in Tour de France Blue with a Pacific Grey leather interior. It was supplied new by Aston Martin Stratstone and has had four owners who have covered 76,200 miles. It comes with a partial history and the first 10 years of stamps from the supplying dealer. Estimated at £24,000 to £28,000.

Our next powerhouse comes in the form of a 2005 Jaguar XJR with a 4.2-litre supercharged V8 engine. Extremely well maintained and finished in Radiance Red with a Black Nappa leather interior, the paintwork has been fully protected and the alloys refurbished. This Jaguar has formed part of a private collection where it has been kept in regulated storage. It has been recently serviced and estimated at £7,000 to £9,000.

A large proportion of MG RV8s went to Japan, though quite a few were re-imported back to the UK. This 1994 car is one of those sold new to Japan and returned to the UK in 2006, it comes with an extensive history file in Japanese! Displaying approximately 53,000 miles on the clock and with the current owner for the last three years, this car is presented well in Woodcote Green. Freshly serviced in April, it is now offered with an estimate of £15,000 to £18,000.

Gary Dunne, Classic Car Auctions sales manager commented: “We are delighted to offer these British cars, the epitome of British manufacturing. They are real powerhouses and the Bentley is rather special. We always do well with these types of cars and look forward to the sale.”

Classic Car Auctions are still accepting cars for the auction and can be contacted on 01926 640888 or email enquiries@classiccarauctions.co.uk and would be happy to talk with you and help you through the process of consigning your car, alternatively, you can also use their online Value My Classic service.

2019 Forthcoming Auctions

25th May – CCA May Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

3rd August - CCA August Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

5th October - CCA October Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

7th December - CCA December Classic Car Sale, Warwickshire Event Centre

1994 MG RV8 2005 2001 Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage Coupe

 Bentley Continental GT Mulliner 2005 Jaguar XJR (X350)

RM SOTHEBY’S PARTNERS WITH ASTON MARTIN FOR SINGLE-MARQUE EVENING AT MONTEREY AUCTION

RM SOTHEBY’S PARTNERS WITH ASTON MARTIN FOR SINGLE-MARQUE EVENING AT MONTEREY AUCTION

MONTEREY SALE EXTENDS TO THREE NIGHTS FOR 2019

EARLY ENTRY: ASTON MARTIN DB5 OFFERED FROM 40 YEARS OF OWNERSHIP

• RM Sotheby’s, official auction partner of Aston Martin, to present dedicated, single-marque sale in Monterey
• Monterey sale extends to three nights for 2019, kicking off with Evening of Aston Martin on 15 August
• Early entries for Aston Martin sale led by a very early DB5 offered from 40 years of single private ownership
• Additional information on the Monterey sale available at rmsothebys.com

 Following the announcement of an official partnership with Aston Martin during Monterey Car Week last year, RM Sotheby’s is delighted to announce early entries for the company’s Evening of Aston Martin at its annual flagship Monterey auction. Extending the record-setting Monterey sale to three days for 2019 RM Sotheby’s will present a dedicated, single-marque session on Thursday, 15 August at the Monterey Conference Center, featuring more than 30 of the world’s most sought-after road-going and track-ready Aston Martin sports cars from across the marque’s illustrious history.

RM Sotheby’s appointment as the official auction partner for Aston Martin follows the auction house’s successful sale of several of the most valuable Aston Martins ever sold at auction. The partnership will celebrate the anniversary of Aston Martin’s historic 1959 win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as support the marque’s successful Second Century Plan, which is delivering a new Aston Martin model every year for seven years, and also promises two ‘specials’ per year, which are set to become collectibles of the future. 

“We are honoured to partner with Aston Martin as the marque’s official auction house and for what is set to be an incredible evening in Monterey,” said Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions, RM Sotheby’s. “RM Sotheby’s has long been the auction house of choice for the sale of important Aston Martin models, and our Monterey auction has proven time and again to be the best venue for the most exceptional examples, exhibited by the sale of the one-off DP215 last year, and the DBR1/1 in 2017 – the most valuable British car ever sold at auction. We’re looking forward to bringing some of the world’s best Aston Martin models to the single-marque sale, and the very early, long-term ownership DB5 we’ve consigned is a fantastic example of the fresh-to-market cars that collectors can expect.”  

Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works, said: “This early interest in the inaugural auction from would-be owners around the world is an extremely positive sign.”

“The market for historic cars is constantly evolving and it is vital that, with its remarkable heritage and growing appeal worldwide, Aston Martin is represented by the best auction house in the business. RM Sotheby’s give us at Aston Martin Works – the global heritage division of Aston Martin – the opportunity to reach a first class international clientele.”

RM Sotheby’s is already looking ahead to the single-marque evening, securing an auction highlight in the form of a very early 1964 Aston Martin DB5. A factory left-hand-drive example, chassis no. DB5/1305/L is just the fifth DB5 ever produced, sold new through British Motor Car Distributors in San Francisco to the Washington Fruit & Produce Corporation. The DB5 was purchased by the consignor in 1981 off the street in Sausalito, California, remaining in his private ownership ever since. Presented at Monterey in highly original, never fully restored condition, the matching-numbers DB5 retains its original engine, is finished in its original colours, and features interesting factory options including an overdrive transmission and 3.77 rear axle ratio. Faithfully maintained by marque experts for the last four decades, the well-documented Aston Martin has been driven and enjoyed throughout its life and offers its next enthusiast owner the opportunity to acquire a very early DB5 (Est. $700,000 - $900,000).

RM Sotheby’s is currently responsible for the top three most valuable Aston Martins yet sold at auction. Held during the world-famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance motoring week, RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale (15-17 August), has been the pinnacle of collector car auctions for more than 30 years, leading the field and raising the bar with its consistent, record-setting results. This year’s Monterey sale will once again present more than 120 of the world’s most important motor cars in the ultimate collector car destination.

For further information on RM Sotheby’s 2019 Monterey auction and to view a frequently updated list of entries, please visit rmsothebys.com. Interested consignors are invited to call RM Sotheby’s global headquarters at +1 519 352 4575 to speak with a car specialist about entering an important motor car in the Monterey sale. Consignments are invited through early July 2019