Although the early books by Ian Fleming had James Bond in Bentleys, the secret agent also referred to as Agent 007 has been associated with Aston Martin cars in the movies. It was in 1964 that ‘Goldfinger’ saw the start of one of the most notable partnerships in cinematic history when Bond drove a very lethal DB5 that had machine guns behind the headlights and even an ejection seat!
To celebrate the 6-decade association, Aston Martin’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin, has built 60 Goldfinger Editions of the DB12. No price is mentioned although the cars are likely to be taken up quickly, as such exclusive editions usually are.
The powertrain is a 4-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing 680 ps/800 Nm and like the other DB12s, there’s an advanced suspension system.
Presented in the iconic Silver Birch paint colour synonymous with the DB5 in ‘Goldfinger’, the special edition rolls on striking 21-inch multi-spoke wheels with a unique silver colour with a diamond treatment finish are complemented by black brake calipers, bespoke gold side strakes and a unique Aston Martin logo in silver with a black enamel.
While the DB5 in the movie was equipped with all sorts of gadgets, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition is focused on providing a more indulgent driving experience. Inside, the leather Sports Plus seats are finished in the classic DB5 fluted style with an intricate Prince of Wales check perforation pattern, in a nod to a classic James Bond suit.
This pattern extends to both the door inserts and the headliner, as well as being etched onto a unique treadplate. A polished sill plaque adorns the Goldfinger 60th anniversary logo.
Adding an elevated level of ultra-luxury to the interior of the car and awaiting the driver’s touch is 18k Gold Plated interior accents, decorating the drive mode rotary dial and the roller controls, as well as the notched gear selector which takes design inspiration from the golden tracking device used by Bond in the film. This theme is also continued through the trim inlays, as gold metal fibres are weaved into the 2X2 Twill Gloss Carbon Fibre.
Bond fans will recognise the ’eight of hearts’ embroidered onto the drivers’ sun visor, which references the playing card seen in the last draw during the famous Miami pool scene in ‘Goldfinger’.
Each DB12 Goldfinger Edition is presented with an array of gifts as exclusive as the car itself. Owners will receive a custom car cover and luxury key presentation box, along with a Silver Birch Speedform model and for something truly unique, a section of the iconic Furka Pass scene in ‘Goldfinger’ in 35 mm film. The bespoke gifts will be presented in a Globe-Trotter attache case, which replicates the design of the car; a Silver Birch body and a Prince of Wales check interior.
Additionally, the 60 owners can also enjoy a magnum of 2007 vintage Champagne Bollinger, individually numbered, with 4 exclusive Bollinger 007 glasses, elegantly presented in a bespoke Globe-Trotter Air Cabin Case.
“The relationship between Aston Martin and the James Bond franchise is something that is always treasured”, said Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer. “It is an incredible occasion to be able to recognise 6 decades of this partnership with an extraordinary special edition, and pay homage to the very first – and perhaps most famous Aston Martin Bond car. Incorporating these subtle but impactful touches, developed by our own ‘Q’ department has created a very unique offering; one that will be adored by Bond fans across the world.”