Daniel Craig Appointed Honorary Royal Navy Commander

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Daniel Craig has been made an honorary Commander in the Royal Navy. Commander Craig’s appointment as an honorary officer reflects his personal support for HM Armed Forces and links it with the legacy created through the guise of fictional British secret agent James Bond.

Honorary officers in the Royal Navy bring a breadth of experience and contribute in their own distinct way to strengthen the navy’s ties with the communities it serves. Commander Craig is keen to support personnel with the Royal Navy, with a particular interest in service families.

Commander Craig said: “I am truly privileged and honoured to be appointed the rank of Honorary Commander in the senior service.”

The rank matches that of James Bond in the films and the announcement comes ahead of the premiere of the newest Bond instalment No Time To Die. Filmmakers worked closely with the Royal Navy and Ministry of Defence in the production of the latest film in the franchise.

Warship HMS Dragon features in the movie with a sneak preview of the distinct Type 45 destroyer, with her red dragon emblem on the hull, seen cutting through the waves in the latest trailer.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: “I am delighted to welcome honorary Commander Daniel Craig to the Royal Navy. Our honorary officers act as ambassadors and advocates for the Service, sharing their time and expertise to spread the message about what our global, modern, and ready Royal Navy is doing around the world.

“Daniel Craig is well known for being Commander Bond for the last 15 years – a Naval officer who keeps Britain safe through missions across the globe.

“That’s what the real Royal Navy does every day, using technology and skill the same way as Bond himself. I look forward to him getting to see more of our sailors and marines over the coming months and years.”

As well as HMS Dragon making an appearance, the Royal Air Force also granted access to key assets and personnel. RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire, was used as a backdrop in the film, standing in for a NATO airbase in Norway where Bond joins MI6 allies and later boards a C-17 Globemaster.

Meanwhile, the Army supplied troops from the Household Cavalry. They offered their time at a pivotal moment in their calendar, just before the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Aston Martin DB5 Junior No Time To Die Edition

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The Little Car Company, Aston Martin and EON Productions have announced the launch of a No Time To Die special edition Aston Martin DB5 Junior. This collaboration has resulted in a gadget-laden, two-thirds scale version of the original and comes with a fully electric powertrain.

The No Time To Die edition will pay homage to the shared history of the brands, with silver birch paintwork, Smiths instruments, individually numbered chassis plates and Aston Martin badging. Only 125 vehicles will be built, making this the ultimate collector’s item for Bond fans.

After extensive development and months of collaboration between the three companies, the car is a truly authentic homage to both the Aston Martin and 007 brands. The original Aston Martin DB5 was 3D-scanned for reference, allowing a completely accurate reproduction. Whilst some elements of the car have been replicated, such as the Smiths instruments on the dashboard, some elements have been reimagined for the modern era.

The No Time To Die special edition has been designed as a convertible, and not the fixed head coupe driven by 007, to offer seating for an adult and child side by side.

Oscar®-winning special effects supervisor Chris Corbould OBE, has worked on fifteen James Bond films, and consulted with The Little Car Company on the development of the car’s complex gadgets in miniature. “When I saw the DB5 Junior in the flesh, I was amazed at how identical it is to the full-sized car – it’s stunning. It’s an amazing feat of engineering.”

All the gadgets, are operated by individual controls in a hidden switch panel in the passenger door. At the push of a button, the headlights drop to reveal a twin set of simulated Gatling guns, complete with imitation barrel blasts and flashes. There’s also a unique digital number plate and just like the original car, this special edition can produce a smoke screen to aid a successful getaway. Ejected through the rear ‘exhaust’, the smoke has a supply tank which supplies an hour of safe smoke before it needs topping up.

Although not road legal, the DB5 Junior comes with automatic membership of the respected Aston Martin Owners Club. In addition, all owners receive complimentary membership of The Little Car Club, allowing them to take part in exclusive events where they, their children and their grandchildren can drive their DB5 Juniors on the most prestigious racetracks.

Pricing for the car has been set at £90,000, plus local taxes. Existing Aston Martin DB5 Junior clients will be given first refusal on upgrading to a No Time To Die edition, and remaining build slots will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Discover the car at thelittlecar.co and 007Store.com

Michael Kors Partners With 007

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Michael Kors has announced a partnership with 007. The first launch is a limited-edition capsule of three Michael Kors Collection bags which includes the Bond Bancroft Satchel carried by Moneypenny (Naomie Harris) in No Time To Die.

Crafted in Italy, the MKC x 007 range channels the timeless sophistication of the Bond film series. The Bond Bancroft Satchel is a versatile shape constructed from smooth calf leather with a polished MKC x 007 plaque on the interior lining. The Bond Calf Leather Carryall and Bond Canvas & Leather Duffel are perfect for overnight stays and weekending, each finished with a MKC x 007 leather luggage tag.

“Jet set glamour, sophistication, speed, energy – these are all words that come to mind when you think about the world of James Bond,” says designer Michael Kors. “They’re also at the core of our brand DNA. This collaboration was really the perfect union of fashion and film.”

The three-piece capsule collection is available now at 007Store.com and MichaelKors.com

 

New Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition

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Triumph have announced a new limited edition motorcycle inspired by the Tiger 900 Rally Pro, which features in stunt sequences in No Time To Die.

Strictly limited to just 250 motorcycles, the new Tiger 900 Bond Edition celebrates the iconic British partnership between James Bond and Triumph. Each of these stunning motorcycles are individually numbered and come with a signed certificate of authenticity.

The Tiger 900 Bond Edition features a unique and eye-catching Matt Sapphire Black paint scheme and 007TM graphics. The motorcycle also comes with a premium, billet machined handlebar clamp, with the bike’s unique limited edition number.

Enhancing the Bond Edition theme, the new limited edition Tiger 900 features an exciting bespoke 007TM start up screen animation and heated rider and pillion seat, crafted with unique Bond Edition branding.

Along with all of the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s category-dominating specification the new limited edition also comes with an additional pair of high performance Michelin Anakee Wild handbook approved off-road tyres (in addition to the factory fitted Bridgestone Battlax tyres), and a premium Arrow Silencer, which features a lightweight brushed stainless steel body, with a carbon end cap and strap.

For more info go to: www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk

Burlington Arcade Launches 007 installation

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Burlington Arcade, the historic landmark and luxury retail destination in London’s Mayfair, has launched a 007 installation in celebration of No Time To Die.

The James Bond themed installation, which was revealed on Monday 20th September, features a stunning James Bond inspired entrance at Burlington Gardens: inside special 007 arches run the full length of the arcade, with a show stopping James Bond ‘Gun Barrel photo op’ in the centre. The connection between Burlington Arcade and 007 has its foundation through three Arcade residents and long-time Bond partners: Crockett & Jones, Globe-Trotter and N.Peal.

This September, Burlington Arcade will be joined by two more Bond partners:

Omega, the luxury Swiss watch manufacturer, will launch a boutique ‘Omega House’. Although Omega has had a presence in the Arcade via their vintage store since 2006, the new space will be totally dedicated to 007. The new ‘Omega Bond House’ boasts a ground floor retail pop-up, an Omega private members bar, and an exclusive exhibition by photographer Greg Williams. Also on display are key props and watches from the James Bond movies. To celebrate the launch a special Omega inspired carpet, in the same colourway as the ‘Nato’ strap that features on the ‘Bond watch’, will run the full length of the arcade. Time-piece inspired mobiles hang throughout in a subtle nod to the Swiss watch manufacturer and the latest movie title.

The second boutique launch is an exclusive Bollinger 007 Champagne bar. A celebration of over 40 years of partnership, guests will also be able to purchase the 007 Limited Edition Special Cuvee and gift box – created by the House to mark the release of No Time To Die.

Ready For Combat With N.Peal And Danner

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Four new pieces of apparel have been unveiled to celebrate the upcoming release of No Time To Die. N.Peal, creators of Bond’s No Time To Die ribbed military sweater, have collaborated again with Suttirat Anne Larlarb, the film’s Costume Designer. This time they have recreated the trousers, braces and Henley top worn in the tactical action scenes – working from Suttirat’s original designs on exact replica pieces. 

The Combat Trousers have been made in 100% cotton, complete with all Suttirat’s features. She says “Over the course of filming, multiple versions of these trousers were prototyped in our workshop; at every subsequent fitting we continued to refine the pattern for ever-changing technical requirements while also perfecting the cut, details and fit until we had the perfect pant for Bond to carry out his mission. These combat trousers were designed not only to meet the particular demands of the action sequence in which they are worn (along with the commando sweater), but very much with an eye towards maintaining the iconic edge that defines the character of James Bond.

Utility details – like the front left gusseted pocket, ankle zips, adjustable hem straps, interior pocket fixtures and components – were all chosen and developed not only to fulfil the practical needs of the costume, but in keeping with the essence of Bond’s signature style.”

The light grey Henley Top is made from a combination of 85% cotton and 15% cashmere, to keep you the ideal temperature whatever the climate.

US bootmakers Danner build on a relationship started in Spectre. After their boots were worn by Bond in the 2015 film’s Austrian mountain scenes, the company was asked to create an all-black tactical boot for No Time To Die’s action scenes. This special 007 Tanicus Boot has just been released as a limited edition design. Delivering longwear performance, the boots are constructed in ballistic nylon and rugged suede with a breathable mesh lining, and the store edition comes with a limited edition 007 x Danner leather passport wallet. 

See the collection here.

CMA CGM Official Partner Of No Time To Die

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An official partner of No Time To Die, CMA CGM granted filmmakers EON Productions unprecedented access to Kingston Container Terminal in Jamaica to shoot an action sequence with a seaplane. While the vessel CMA CGM FORT SAINT GEORGES features in the film when Bond is rescued from the ocean. 

CMA CGM ships, crew members and 1,000 shipping containers were used for filming at the Kingston South Quay Terminal, a strategic transhipment hub for the Group in the Caribbean, located at the exit of the Panama Canal and the crossroads of the North/South and East/West lines.

Champagne Bollinger Launch New Limited Edition

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Champagne Bollinger has produced a new limited edition in celebration of over 40 years of partnership as the Official Champagne of 007 and the upcoming film No Time To Die. Champagne Bollinger worked with photographer Greg Williams on the new Special Cuvée 007 Limited Edition campaign which features the Aston Martin DB5 shot in his signature cinematic style.

 

 

No Time To Die London World Premiere

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The World Premiere of No Time To Die on 28th September, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, will be attended by the film’s leading actors Daniel Craig, Rami Malek, Léa Seydoux, Lashana Lynch, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Jeffrey Wright, Rory Kinnear, Ana de Armas, David Dencik and Dali Benssalah. The cast will be joined on the red carpet at the Royal Albert Hall by director Cary Joji Fukunaga, producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, screenwriters Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and Phoebe Waller-Bridge, composer Hans Zimmer, and “No Time To Die” performers Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell.

The event will lead a series of premieres in 57 cities across the globe, including 10 in the UK and Ireland to which health care workers will be invited as special guests in celebration and gratitude of their extraordinary work during the pandemic.

The World Premiere will benefit charities supporting serving and former members of the three intelligence agencies (the Secret Intelligence Service, the Security Service and GCHQ). The evening will also assist charities supporting past and present members of the United Kingdom Special Forces.

At the Royal Albert Hall in London, there will be viewing areas on the red carpet for invited health care workers and members of the armed forces. They will join the cast and other guests inside to watch the film.

Please note there is no public access on the day to the red carpet or viewing areas. Highlights from the event will be available to view via the official 007 social media channels. A limited number of tickets have been made available for public purchase via the Royal Albert Hall website.

Lashana Lynch Features In Bond Inspired Nokia TV Spot

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Lashana Lynch who plays 00 agent Nomi in No Time To Die stars in the Bond inspired commercial for the new Nokia XR20; the latest 5G smartphone from Nokia – the only gadget you’ll ever need.
“The world we live in now means we all have the ultimate gadget in our pockets. It’s amazing what smartphones can do nowadays,” said Lashana Lynch.

No Time To Die is in cinemas from September 30.

The 007 X Connolly Collection Announced

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Inspired by 007 and Connolly’s long association with the Aston Martin DB5, Connolly is delighted to announce the launch of an exclusive capsule collection celebrating the release of No Time To Die.

In 1964 the Aston Martin DB5 made its first on-screen appearance in a James Bond film. The gadget laden Goldfinger car made an instant impact with its silver birch exterior and unique interior graced with grey Vaumol Connolly leather. To mark Connolly’s long association with Aston Martin and the return of the DB5 in No Time To Die, Connolly have created a special 007 capsule collection.

Anchoring the collection of menswear are two hero pieces – the Navy Blue Mixed Linen Giubbino Jacket and an Oatmeal Linen Shirt. Both items are worn by James Bond in No Time To Die and are now available in a limited series, with an added rare opportunity to purchase the Giubbino Jacket in a Soft Suede Lambskin, and the Linen Shirt in Navy or Sky Blue.

Further building on the collection, Connolly are producing a bespoke Classic Navy Blue and Graphite Drop Back Car Vest with an original grey Connolly Vaumol leather zip pull, which features Connolly’s hallmark metal bolt rivet, and a reworked interior including a hidden pocket.

Inspired by the DB5’s emblematic silver birch finish and grey Vaulmol upholstery of the original Goldfinger DB5 is a collection of small leather accessories, including a Key Ring, Passport Holder, Credit Card Case, Folded Card Case, Circuit Pouch and a pair of Connolly’s distinctive Driving Goggles. These accessories are produced using a combination of grey and black Vaumol leather. The same colourway is carried through into the brand’s celebrated two-tone Driving Gloves, featuring silver foil hallmarking with a subtle nod to the original DB5 registration plate.

A family business of saddlers and shoe-smiths founded in 1878, Connolly was well established as a global reference for high-grade automotive leather by the time David Brown acquired Aston Martin in the late 1940s, having furnished the likes of Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Jaguar since the turn of the century. No wonder, then, that Connolly would become a valued supplier to Aston Martin, the pre-eminent builder of luxury British sports cars.

The 007 x Connolly Collection is available now from connollyengland.com and 007store.com

New Bond Exhibition For No Time To Die

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Beaulieu is set to launch Bond in Motion – No Time To Die, a new exhibition featuring the iconic cars, gadgets and costumes from the latest 007 film. The exhibition will be unveiled at the National Motor Museum on 15th October.

The exhibition will be the first opportunity for the public to see the folding-wing glider from the film. This full-size model will be suspended above Bond’s iconic silver birch Aston Martin DB5, complete with new LED number plate and machine guns. Also on display will be the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, driven in the film by new agent Nomi, the No Time To Die Aston Martin V8 – which was last seen in The Living Daylights (1987) – and the Chevy Bel Air. Fans of four-wheel drives will enjoy Bond’s Land Rover Series III and the Land Rover Defender 110. A Triumph Scrambler motorcycle and Royal Alloy Scooter will also be on display.

Visitors will be able to get a first look at new gadgets from Q Branch, including Bond’s Q-enhanced Omega Seamaster Diver 300M watch, alongside technical plans for vehicle designs and DB5 weapons. Backdrop screens will show action clips from the movie.

A range of Bond merchandise will also be on display in the exhibition and available in the Beaulieu gift shop. Tickets and merchandise will also be available to buy at 007store.com.

General ticketing information here.