James Bond Watches

Rolex 6538 Submariner to be shown at National Watch & Clock Museum

2010-05-07T12:44:00.006-04:00

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JamesBondWatches.com is pleased to announce that the upcoming "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" display will include a Rolex 6538 Submariner throughout the run of this exhibit, June 18, 2010, through April 30, 2011, at the National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, Pennsylvania.

As part of our commitment to provide the most detailed and accurate information on James Bond watches, I personally approached the world renowned Rolex trader and author Franca E. Guido Mondani for a definitive identification. Most recently, Guido Mondani is known as editor on the limited edition book, Rolex Submariner Story, a must-have for any James Bond watch collector (an invaluable part of my own library, but of course).

Based on his own, independent review of Dr. No film footage (as well as some further impressive resources we're not at liberty to disclose), he's gone on record with us in calling this one a 6538 reference.

With that, we went on to approach Bob Ridley of Watchmakers International, who is also working with the National Watch & Clock Museum and me as an invalable partner on the Bond Watches exhibit. Watchmakers International has hand's-on experience in taking a Rolex 6538 Submariner from present-day condition to something as close as practical to the way it would have looked when Sean Connery wore it as James Bond in 1962....

Read more on "Rolex 6538 Submariner to be shown at National Watch & Clock Museum 'Bond Watches, James Bond Watches' exhibit, June 18, 2010 - April 30, 2011."

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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Revolution magazine previews National Watch & Clock Museum James Bond Watches exhibit

2010-04-15T09:12:00.003-04:00

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Just over two months from now, "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" will open to the public at the National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, Pennsylvania.

But the current issue of Revolution magazine brings its readers the inside scoop on what's to come. Revolution is hitting the streets now, and subscribers are already receiving their copies.

Look for the 2-page spread titled, "A View to a Thrill: The Watches of Mr Bond, James Bond," by Editor-in-Chief Jack Forster.

Earlier this year, Noel Poirier, Museum Director; Bob Ridley of Watchmakers International, and sponsor of the Ian Fleming Rolex 1016 Explorer for the Bond Watches exhibit; and I gave exclusive interviews to Mr. Forster for Revolution. First among the topics discussed was the incredible support and enthusiasm we've received from the Fleming family itself.

Additionally, as Mr. Poirier observes, we are doing more than just providing unique access to history here. This National Watch & Clock Museum exhibit will make history, by bringing together for the first time since the passing of Ian Fleming the only Rolex he is known to have owned and wore, and the original manuscript for On Her Majesty's Secret Service -- in which he described his own watch as also being the choice of his literary James Bond character.

Screen-accurate examples of James Bond watches from all-known brands featured in Eon Productions films will be on display when "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" opens to the public on June 18, 2010. A special opening ceremony and exclusive tour will be provided the night before in conjunction with the National Watch & Clock Collectors ("NAWCC") annual convention, which is being held in that area this year.

Check out the NAWCC website for conference information and details on Museum admissions.

And continue to watch Revolution magazine for continued exciting coverage of the Bond Watches exhibition, running through April 30, 2011!

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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National Watch & Clock Museum updates James Bond Watches exhibit page

2010-04-09T01:14:00.006-04:00

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Just over two months from now, "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" will open at the National Watch & Clock Museum.

With exhibit space reconfiguration scheduled to begin very shortly, more publicly evident changes are already coming as well.

For example, this project moves up to the top of the "Upcoming Exhibit Schedule" page on the NAWCC website with the familiar image of an Omega 2907.50.91 "Casino Royale" Planet Ocean Seamaster BIG SIZE, reflecting an Aston Martin DB5 model in its crystal, replaced by a piece from the complete other end of the Bond spectrum.

A Rolex 1016 Explorer similar to the original literary James Bond wristwatch now dominates.

Descriptive text also highlights one of the true history-making features of the "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibit. For the first time since Ian Fleming was alive, his personal Rolex and the On Her Majesty's Secret Service manuscript in which he described it as the personal choice of Agent 007 will be together again.

Remember: The ribbon cutting and access for NAWCC Annual Convention attendees takes place on Thursday, June 17, 2010. Open to the general public on Friday, June 18.

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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Announcing the James Bond TAG Heuer wristwatch

2010-04-03T09:38:00.006-04:00

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Almost two years ago, James Bond Watches asked the question, "Was the first Dalton-Bond a Heuer?"

Today, the answer is yes.

The year was 1986 and The Living Daylights was filming with Timothy Dalton as the new James Bond. The product placement relationship between SEIKO Watch Corporation and Eon Productions had ended with the departure of Roger Moore.

And the TAG Heuer calibre 980.031 Professional Night-Diver PVD wristwatch had been chosen as the new James Bond wristwatch for a 007 determined to bring this character even closer to the literary intent of creator Ian Fleming.

Read more on "James Bond wore a TAG Heuer wristwatch," Part I.
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Era ends for James Bond Rolex Submariner Date wristwatch

2010-03-23T07:38:00.003-04:00

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Basel, Switzerland— For the first time in the history of James Bond films, Rolex is no longer offering a current watch model that’s consistent with any on-screen choice of 007.

A new Rolex Submariner Date reference 116610LN has just been introduced at Baselworld 2010 (March 18-25), the premier trade show for the wristwatch industry, held annually in Basel, Switzerland. It replaces the Rolex 16610 Sub Date which was introduced in 1988, according to experts Franca E. Guido Mondani and Lele Ravagnani, who discussed this in their definitive book, Rolex Submariner Story.

It’s most likely that actor Timothy Dalton wore a Rolex 16610 for his second outing as James Bond in Licence to Kill, a film that opened during the summer of 1989.

The history of Rolex and the movie-Bond character dates back to 1961 and pre-production planning for the first Eon Productions contribution to this series, Dr. No. From the very beginning, filmmakers recognized the importance of wristwatch selection in fleshing out their lead man. As John Cork and Bruce Scivally emphasized in James Bond: The Legacy, “he could not just wear a watch, it needed to be a Rolex.”

Continue reading "Era ends for James Bond Rolex Submariner Date wristwatch" (with additional images) on James Bond Watches.
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Another James Bond Watch brand to be announced after Basel Watch Fair

2010-03-17T08:44:00.003-04:00

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The annual Basel watch fair, "BaselWorld," is where all the biggest industry news of the year is generated.

Expect big news in James Bond watches this time around as well.

We have meetings set up to take place during this trade show that are expected to confirm another James Bond watch brand associated with the Eon Productions films.

JamesBondWatches.com will make its first announcement on this in the next few weeks or so.

Stay tuned!
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Moonraker James Bond watch: One SEIKO model, two different bracelets

2010-03-05T15:42:00.007-05:00

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Even the seemingly most straightforward of James Bond watch studies can often yeild some really fascinating detail for the keen researcher.

For example, we know that the SEIKO caliber M354-5019 in Moonraker is not worn on the bracelet originally associated with this SFX003 model. Clasp and link configuration are obviously different.

But take a closer look at the terminal link where bracelet attaches to springbars. (Click on either image to see it at higher resolution.)

In the first example from a movie screen-capture shown here, the springbar-link has two protrusions onto which the remainder of the bracelet attaches.

In the second image at right, there are three.

Both of these are provided for research purposes from the 2006 Ultimate Edition DVD, at the 1:22:38 and 1:23:43 running times. JamesBondWatches.com has already provided two labels in order to differentiate the standard from the gadget-watch here: The "Corinne Dufour SEIKO" and "Explosives-Gadget SEIKO," respectively.

Clearly the latter is the one with the three-link configuration.

It would also appear that the Explosives-Gadget SEIKO was non-operational (despite the apparent mechanism, including battery, which shows when the caseback is open at one point in Moonraker).

Referring to the image from the instructions shown on this James Bond Watches Blog for January 30, 2010, notice that dial reads exactly the same as on the Explosives-Gadget SEIKO.

As we've said before: Only the M354-5019 (SFX003) was worn by actor Roger Moore as James Bond in Moonraker. However, he clearly wore it on two different bracelets.
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National Watch & Clock Museum announces Fleming-Bond watch exhibit sponsor

2010-02-22T09:59:00.007-05:00

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Ian Fleming wore the original James Bond watch in 1962.

Watchmakers International is sponsoring its exhibit at the National Watch & Clock Museum's "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches," for the entire run of this display, June 18, 2010, through April 30, 2011.

As Guest Curator on the exhibition project, I felt it was important to have as a part of our offering key resources and expertise specific to vintage Rolex watches of the literary- and early-007-film eras. Bob Ridley of Watchmakers International is an ideal match. His Watchmakers International is exclusively committed to the restoration of Rolex watches; and, for our purposes, that means Explorer, Submariner, and pre-Daytona models from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.

That's the full complement of James Bond Rolex watches.

See James Bond Watches website for official announcement: "Ian Fleming's original Rolex to be sponsored by Watchmakers International for James Bond exhibit."
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SEIKO G757 Sports 100 instructions available through James Bond Watches

2010-02-18T07:27:00.007-05:00

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Another set of vintage SEIKO wristwatch instructions are now being hosted on the James Bond Watches website.

Actor Roger Moore wore a SEIKO Quartz LC (liquid crystal display) "Digital Type Calibre G757 Graphic Alarm Chronograph Sports 100" model as James Bond, Agent 007, through most of the action in the movie Octopussy (1983). Most fans will recall the important role it played in building tension to the circus sequence where a nuclear bomb was set to detonate if he didn't arrive in time to disarm it.

The exact watch that collectors are looking for is the calibre G757-5020, model WLK005.

Rare it is for these actual wristwatches to come available, new owners are often faced with a subsequent frustration as they try to figure out operation of acquired pieces sans original manufacturer instructions.

JamesBondWatches.com is pleased to offer a solution. We are now hosting the complete 20-page English-language section of the SEIKO G757 instruction booklet on our main website. See "SEIKO wristwatch calibre number G757 operating instructions" on James Bond Watches for *.jpg page scans and a *.pdf version.

Enjoy your SEIKO James Bond watches!
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The Girard-Perregaux wristwatch that James Bond did not wear

2010-02-14T07:53:00.002-05:00

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Over a year now since WatchTime published my article on having discovered the original, literary James Bond Rolex (Explorer 1016), I continue to get questions related to a sidebar photo and caption that the magazine ran under “Bad Guys, Good Watches.”
Didn’t James Bond wear a Girard-Perregaux, too?

That’s legitimate to ask when you fast forward to Chapter 27 of From Russia with Love. Here, bad guy shoots Bond’s watch on his wrist. Bond kills bad guy, takes bad guy’s watch and starts wearing it as replacement. Bad guy’s watch thus becomes a James Bond watch. Identify brand of bad guy watch and you have brand name for Bond watch. Right?

Not exactly.

Continue reading on jamesbondwatches.com at "The Girard-Perregaux watch that James Bond did not wear" (also featured on CommanderBond.net).
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WatchTime remembers our discovery of the original James Bond Rolex: One year later

2010-02-02T20:48:00.006-05:00

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It seems like we've always known that the original, literary James Bond Rolex was a 1016 Explorer produced in the latter part of 1960.

And that it was the personal choice of 007 creator Ian Fleming as well.

But it's only been a year since WatchTime ran our feature article that definitively put this persistent mystery to rest with "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex," February 2009.

Editor-in-Chief Joe Thompson notes this in his February 2010 Editor's Letter. Titled, "Another Mystery Solved," he begins, "Regular readers know that we've been having some fun lately focusing on (and sometimes solving!) some long-standing watch mysteries....

"Ian Fleming expert Dell Deaton (February 2009) identified the specific Rolex watch that was the inspiration for the Rolex that James Bond wears in the Fleming novels."

Like I said: That was a year ago, and we're now well-into 2010. And with less than six months to go before the "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibit opens at the National Watch & Clock Museum, I can promise you as its guest curator that we'll solve at least two more mysteries before that grand collection goes on display.

It's gonna be another exciting year for James Bond Watches!
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SEIKO M354 Memory Bank Calendar instructions available through James Bond Watches

2010-01-30T19:18:00.003-05:00

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In the 1979 film Moonraker, Roger Moore wore a SEIKO calibre M354-5019, model SFX003 throughout as James Bond, Agent 007.

James Bond Watches is now pleased to make available a copy of the original operating instructions, provided to us directly from SEIKO in support of its valued collectors and researchers.

The image shown here is page 1 of 4. The complete booklet can be accessed in different formats on the James Bond Watches website under "SEIKO wristwatch case number M354 operating instructions."
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Original Ian Fleming manuscripts to be featured in NAWCC James Bond watch exhibit

2010-01-22T07:17:00.003-05:00

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Columbia, PA (12/16/2009)-- A sampling of Ian Fleming's original James Bond manuscripts, personal author's copies, and select correspondence will be displayed as part of the "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibit at the National Watch & Clock Museum, opening June 17, 2010, and running through May of 2011.

This loan was mad possible by special arrangement with the Lilly Library at Indiana University, Bloomington, IN.

It will marke the first time in over four decades that the original 007 wristwatch (Ian Fleming's Rolex 1016) and the 1962 manuscript in which it is referenced (On Her Majesty's Secret Service) will be displayed together.

More-- Continue reading about this on James Bond Watches: "Author Ian Fleming's original James Bond manuscripts to be part of upcoming exhibit at National Watch & Clock Museum" - official announcement.

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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Dell Deaton interview on James Bond wristwatches for Style:MEN magazine

2010-01-10T13:19:00.003-05:00

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In addition to extensively interviewing me for the November 2009 issue of Style:MEN magazine and his "Tell Time Like a Spy" feature article, senior writer Terence Lim ran a sidebar titled, "Bonding Time."

Drawing from our several communications between December 14 and 20, 2009, Mr. Lim excerpted a question and answer format that is included in its entirety on the James Bond Watches website.

Key questions focused on the role of wristwatches in support of character development (and shorthand), trends over time, and, of course, did Ian Fleming really intend that Rolex be "the" (exclusive) James Bond watch?

As the guy who "discovered" the original, literary James Bond Rolex (a label ascribed by WatchTime magazine last February), I suppose I'm among the best-positioned to answer this.

Thanks to Style:MEN, you can read "Bonding Time: Watch expert Dell Deaton shares his insight on James Bond and his creator, Ian Fleming" online now.

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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"Tell Time Like a Spy," James Bond wristwatch article in Style:MEN

2010-01-09T13:45:00.003-05:00

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Singapore-based Style:MEN magazine contacted James Bond Watches through our Blog last September for input on a scheduled November 2009 issue feature article.

"Tell Time Like a Spy" is the very satisfying result; a must-read for serious James Bond horologists. Subtitled, "JAMES BOND has it all - cars, girls and gadgets. And 007 never fails to complement his razor-sharp dressing with a handsome WATCH, too."

Author Terence Lim was a joy to work with, and had the sort of enthusiasm for the subject that really shines through in his writing. Style:MEN impresses me as a market-particular publication on par with some of the finer approaches we see here in the United States. Yet Mr. Lim didn't shy away from talking vintage, digital, and sometimes even controversial in his approach to James Bond watches.

The layout and images are wonderful. We can forgive some of the captions and allow the ulta-finest points of nuanced detail to pass.

Rather, I have nothing but praise for these folks in covering what continues to be an increasingly important element of the James Bond brand. We welcome the mainstream visibility, the outreach, the opportunity to educate and excite.

"Tell Time Like a Spy" from Style:MEN can be read in its entirety on the James Bond Watches website (with our most sincere thanks to MediaCorp Pte Ltd for written pre-publication permission).

James Bond Watches welcomes media inquiries for further information, background, and resources; images; and interviews. [link]
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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" now on YouTube

2009-12-31T13:08:00.004-05:00

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All six parts of this NAWCC presentation are also now available on YouTube. This is the format I used for embedding them on CommanderBond.net, and I understand that that may be easier for other web placements as well.

The Channel is "jamesbondwatches" on YouTube.

Part 1, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
Part 2, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
Part 3, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
Part 4, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
Part 5, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
Part 6, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"
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Sixth video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 6) now online

2009-12-30T08:54:00.003-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

Final installment, part 6 of 6, from my June 13, 2009, presentation to the 64th Annual Convention of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors in Grand Rapids, Michigan - now available online through authorSTREAM.

This one reviews and summarizes the topic.

- How do we define "the James Bond watch"?
- Vocal complaints about James Bond and his watches
- How did Ian Fleming utilize James Bond watches?
- Serendipity: Discovery, à la James Bond watches
- Evolution of jamesbondwatches.com from history to news
- "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex," WatchTime
- "The definitive list of James Bond watches in EON Productions films

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 6

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

In the closing slides, I take the opportunity to thank those who supported the creation of this presentation. Everything here was used with permission (of course), and I always think it's important to give credit where credit is due!

- Antiquorum Auctioneers
- Boy Scouts of America
- Christie's
- eBay
- EON Productions
- Ian Fleming family members
- Ian Fleming Publications
- Imperial War Museum
- Getty Images
- Lilly Library / Indiana University - Bloomington
- Omega
- Rolex
- Saturday Night Live
- University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
- WatchTime

With special thanks to: National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, NAWCC Chapter 101, and my wife.
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Fifth video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 5) now online

2009-12-29T19:10:00.002-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

Part 5 of 6 now available on authorSTREAM.

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 5

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

This part primarily focuses on the original, literary James Bond watch: The personal Rolex 1016 Explorer owned and worn by Ian Fleming. Background is provided on the lead-up to both my February 2009 WatchTime and June 2009 NAWCC Bulletin articles on how this mystery dating back to the first 007 books was finally solved.

Several examples of source documentation from Rolex are provided in the visuals. Much of this had never been seen before this presentation at the 64th Annual Convention of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors in Grand Rapids, Michigan, last June 13.

This segement then transitions into labels for James Bond watches that serious researchers are using for identification and to assist collectors. A sample pricing matrix is also provided.
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Fourth video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 4) now online

2009-12-28T21:01:00.004-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

Part 4 of 6 now available on authorSTREAM.

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 4

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

This wraps up the segment on serendipity in James Bond watch collecting with a chart of "Watch gadgets per Bond actor" and a 007 wristwatch joke that's made the rounds on Internet Forums.

Part 4 here also provides anecdotes related to my personal one-time Grails: The "Atlantis SEIKO" 0674 case featured in The Spy Who Loved Me, and the Omega 2531.80 Seamaster worn by Pierce Brosnan in his last four James Bond outings.

Then it's on to a new discussion, as James Bond Watches necessarily responded to demands for "breaking news" in addition to original research content. This includes information on how I became the first to identify the Planet Ocean 2900.50.91 worn by Daniel Craig in Casino Royale, and the Omega 2907.50.91 Seamaster Planet Ocean that so many at the time insisted did not exist.
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Third video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 3) now online

2009-12-25T08:06:00.002-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

Part 3 of 6, on authorSTREAM.

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 3

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

Merry Christmas!
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Second video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 2) now online

2009-12-24T07:50:00.003-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

Following up on my Post here yesterday, here is Part 2 of 6 for the presentation I made on James Bond watches at the 64th Annual Convention of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors on June 13, 2009, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

This is hosted on authorSTREAM.

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 2

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

Note: Although the title image here is the same as what appears for Part 1, the audio and balance of the content is different.
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First video of NAWCC presentation on James Bond watches (part 1) now online

2009-12-23T08:59:00.006-05:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

On Saturday, June 13, 2009, I delivered a presentation on this topic before a public audience at the 64th Annual Convention of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Original PowerPoint slides and audio have been converted to video for hosting on the Internet now. Following is Part 1 of 6.

James Bond Watches NAWCC 2009 Part 1

See more presentations by delldeaton | Upload your own PowerPoint presentations

Also see "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" on YouTube.
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"Discovered: James Bond's Rolex" optimized for Internet Search Engines

2009-12-22T11:56:00.008-05:00

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In addition to hosting this WatchTime magazine feature article as a downloadable *.pdf on our James Bond Watches website, we've now posted it in HTML.

In addition to making this more widely available to James Bond and Ian Fleming fans, it will also provide greater visibility by way of Search Engines on the Internet. For literally decades, the exact configuration and model number for the original, literary James Bond watch remained a mystery.

WatchTime editors objectively introduced this article on the Rolex 1016 Explorer one of the "Mysteries Solved!" in its February 2009 issue.

"We knew Fleming's James Bond wore a Rolex, but we never knew which one. Now we do."
-- Joe Thompson, Editor-in-Chief

Copyright is retained by Dell Deaton, further distribution not permitted without prior written agreement.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]

"Discovered: James Bond's Rolex," by Dell Deaton, from February 2009 issue of WatchTime

WatchTime magazine Home Page
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NAWCC "Horological Happenings" teases upcoming James Bond Watches exhibition

2009-12-17T08:46:00.003-05:00

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In its current newsletter to members, the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors ("NAWCC") provides a brief update on our progress toward the upcoming "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" special exhibit.

James Bond watches were also on the agenda for the December NAWCC Board Meeting.

With a reach of between 25,000 and 30,000 recipients (before pass-along), the "Horological Happenings" newsletter is an important vehicle for raising the visibility on what promises to be the 007 wristwatch event of next year.

"Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" premiers at the National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, Pennsylvania on July 17, 2010, with an opening that will coincide with the NAWCC National Convention. The exhibit will then run through May of 2011.

See James Bond Watches for complete details on the exhibit.

See the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors website for information on becoming a member, sponsoring this exhibit, and other exclusive wristwatch-related resources.
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Progress Report 1: NAWCC special exhibit of "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches"

2009-12-14T16:33:00.008-05:00

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Columbia, Pennsylvania (12/14/2009)— As updated on my bondwatches Twitter last week, we’re now looking at in excess of 150 pieces for possible display at the upcoming “Bond Watches, James Bond Watches” exhibition.

The centerpiece, of course, will be Ian Fleming’s only known Rolex – a 1016 Explorer which served as his reference for the original James Bond wristwatch as he described it in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

This Fleming-Bond Rolex will be on display throughout the National Watch & Clock Museum exhibition, which runs June 17, 2009, through May of 2011.

Last Friday, I met with the Museum Director and staff to discuss messaging and area allocations. “Bond Watches, James Bond Watches” will not only be what we believe to be the first of its kind presentation of all confirmed wristwatches “from Ian Fleming to EON Productions,” but also a unique timeline through which societal, technology, and marketing influences on horology can be examined and better understood.

Now that we’ve obtained properties and commitments that have already exceeded our wildest hopes for the “must show” list we started out with in 2008, we can look at “nice to haves,” multiples, and improving on what we already have in hand.

In terms of visitors’ experience, the impressive National Watch & Clock Museum design team will approach this project on two tracks. [more]
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Our "Tweets" leading 007 watch updates

2009-10-26T08:39:00.005-04:00

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If you're Following http://twitter.com/bondwatches, you already know that things are moving rather quickly with regard to James Bond Watches lately.

We also capture Tweets on this Blog, if you scroll down the page and look to the column on the lower-left.

That said, it seemed appropriate here to provide this reminder, since to some it may appear to have been a while since much has happened in the exciting world of James Bond watches.

Quite the opposite, in fact (to borrow some of M's thinking).

We have made major progress in identifying a good number of watch brands and models that have appeared in the EON Productions James Bond films. Updates are provided on the "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibition, including sponsor dialogues and new acquisitions. And more.

So do be sure to keep your web browsers tuned into our Twitter feed (if not routed real-time to your cell phone). The pace continues to pick up speed! It's time to Follow James Bond Watches on Twitter! [link]

http://twitter.com/bondwatches
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Timing Is Everything on James Bond Watches, part 2

2009-09-22T08:48:00.002-04:00

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To layer a bit of trivia upon trivia here, we can cite two magazines in which "The Hildebrand Rarity" was published prior to being included in the Ian Fleming collection of short stories titled, For Your Eyes Only.

"The Hildebrand Rarity"

Playboy, March 1960
Today, March 19, 1960

James Bond is on the Wavekrest, trying to go to sleep, but distracted by the "deep, rattling, utterly lost snores that come from big blue sleeping-pills on top of too much alcohol," emitting from Milton Krest elsewhere on the ship.

"This was too damned much. Bond looked at his watch. One-thirty. If the snoring didn't stop in ten minutes, Bond would go down to Fidel Barbey's cabin and sleep on the floor, even if he did wake up stiff and frozen in the morning."

None of the five adventures included in For Your Eyes Only tell us very much about 007's timekeeper. The following, in fact, stands out as rather rare, contributing a curious adjective in exclusive reference to the minute-hand on Bond' watch. (Wouldn't one expect him to be watching its second-hand, if his wristwatch had one, in counting down a mere ten minutes before acting on his resolution?)

"Bond watched the gleaming minute-hand slowly creep fround the dial."

Then, of course: The horrible end of Milton Krest. And a curious foray into who-dunnit exposition from the gifted imagination of Ian Fleming.
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Sexy James Bond Watches, part 2

2009-09-21T09:57:00.002-04:00

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This reference additionally speaks to how James Bond Watches came to name the "Miss Taro Rolex."

Dr. No

Eon Productions movie, 1962

James Bond (in bed with a woman he does not convert to the side of good with his charms), has just called a taxi from Miss Taro's bungalow. A bit of dialogue between them exposes her duplicity, and 007 takes here in his arms. At 54 minutes, 43 seconds, he glances past her neck to check the time on his watch.

Reference The Definitive List

See our Definitive list of James Bond Watches for further specifications on this Rolex. [link]
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Original SEIKO Memory Bank Calendar ad

2009-09-19T08:47:00.008-04:00

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This two-page spread is from the November 1978 issue of Sunset magazine.

The headline suggests it is among the first to introduce the SEIKO calibre M354, which was featured as a James Bond watch the following year in the movie Moonraker.

As presented in the publication, the color image of the two watches originally appeared to the left, the black and white page with copy and illustrations to the right.

It's rather fascinating to read here reference to "December 2009" in a thirty-plus-year-old ad, and to realize that just over three months from now, the wristwatches in shown will be aged beyond their anticipated need to perform.

Click on either image to see it at highest resolution.

My personal SEIKO Quartz LC Memory-Bank Calendar Bond watch is sitting before me now as I make this Blog entry.

It's running strong, with no sign of retirement - thank you very much - and it wears every bit as functionally, stylishly today as it did when Roger Moore wore a similar model as James Bond in Moonraker.

A high standard of performance indeed!
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Serendipitous James Bond Watch Uses, part 2

2009-09-18T09:29:00.005-04:00

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When you consider that Ian Fleming's Thunderball novel was published the year before the movie Dr. No went into production, and that Thunderball was the initial intent for the first EON Productions James Bond film, the following parallel to "Serendipitous James Bond Watch Uses, part 1," shouldn't come as a surprise.

Dr. No

Eon Productions movie, 1962

Here again, starting approximately 46 minutes, 40 seconds into Dr. No, James Bond confirms the functioning of a Geiger Counter by testing it against the luminous dial of his wristwatch. The action lasts just 3 seconds.

Based on what we're shown (which does not necessarily mean things operated that way), the way in which actor Sean Connery moves the probe over the watch and the consequent sounding of the Geiger Counter tends to confirm the watch in question here had a Radium dial.

By the way: Did you also notice at 46 minutes, 44 seconds, when 007 removes the watch from his wrist, that the strap is installed with its buckle at the 6 o'clock, as opposed to the 12 o'clock position?

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Miss Taro Rolex" on our Definitive List. [link]
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"Main Strike Diver Watch" label deleted

2009-09-16T09:57:00.003-04:00

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Based on our further research into Seiko watches worn by Roger Moore as James Bond in A View to a Kill, James Bond Watches has confirmed that only three watch types appeared on screen in the film.

The timekeeper identified for research and collector purposes on our definitive listing of EON Productions movie wristwatches as the "Main Strike Diver Watch" duplicates a label that already covers these associated scenes.

Thus we've deleted "Main Strike Diver Watch" from our list and request that others discontinue its reference.
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View-Master and the "Live and Let Die" watch(es), part 2

2009-09-09T13:27:00.006-04:00

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Click here to read the original content of this specific Blog Post.

Also note: We've moved!

Be sure to update your links for our James Bond Watches Blog.
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View-Master and the "Live and Let Die" watch(es), part 1

2009-09-07T19:38:00.006-04:00

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Click here to read the original content of this specific Blog Post.

Also note: We've moved!

Be sure to update your links for our James Bond Watches Blog.
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Watches, Seiko-Bond Watches

2009-09-04T11:02:00.007-04:00

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JamesBondWatches.com is now able to report that we are on the verge of providing over half-a-dozen specific calibre and model numbers for Seiko-brand James Bond time pieces.

These are Seikos worn by actor Roger Moore as Agent 007 in The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), Moonraker (1979), For Your Eyes Only (1981), Octopussy (1983), and A View to a Kill (1985).

Anticipate several "Certainty" levels to bump up in our definitive list, titled, "James Bond Watches: 'The List' of EON Productions Movie Wristwatches." [link]

As always, consistent with our ongoing commitment to the readers of this Blog and the James Bond Watches website, we'll specifically name our Seiko watch sourcing for accountability. Forget about the guesswork: This is the illusive information that collectors and researchers have been waiting for when it comes to vintage Seiko timekeepers and 007!
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Mission-specific James Bond Watches, part 1

2009-09-02T11:04:00.007-04:00

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Introduction to the seventh (and, appropriately numbered, final) "Fun" category: "Mission-specific James Bond Watches."

Yes, "gadget watches" are included here. But, as you'll see, starting with this very first entry, this collection isn't as limited as some may think.

Live and Let Die

Glidrose Productions, 1954

Chapter 19, "Valley of the Shadows," and Ian Fleming's exact words concerning James Bond: "He looked at the Rolex watch on his wrist."

In this mission, Agent 007 is to mine Mr. Big's ship, the Secatur, which had an anchorage of about thirty feet. The story takes place in February of 1954 (at the latest) on the north side of Jamaica. Bond will be required to swim a three-hundred-yard stretch of sea between his vantage point and the Secatur.

Q Branch sends him gear from London. Mr. Fleming specifically names as part of this inventory various items that include a frogman's suit and harpoon gun. The Rolex, only mentioned in the reference provided above, is not listed here.

But the context clearly suggests this as the first mission-specific Bond watch provided by the venerable MI6 Quartermaster.
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You know Our Man by his James Bond wristwatch, part 1

2009-09-01T10:10:00.006-04:00

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Introduction to the sixth "Fun" category: "You'll know Our Man by his James Bond watch" (as opposed to the general truism about knowing any man by his choice of wristwatch).

In some respects, I suppose these could be referred to as gratuitous references. But those who've truly studied Ian Fleming will easily shoot down those arguments, so to speak. Indeed, it is the credibible, specific, detailed references to the real that hooks and sweeps audiences through the fantastic, exotic, and bigger-than-life world of 007!

Die Another Day

EON Productions, 2002

Although Pierce Brosnan wears and highlights the Bond watch during pre-title sequences in Die Another Day, he otherwise rather uncharacteristically goes sans timepiece through the first hour of this film.

After M puts him back on the active duty roster, he meets with Q and is issued a new watch in a 10-second sequence beginning around 1 hour, 5 minutes into the plot.

"Now: A new watch," Q says, abruptly, handing it to Bond. "Um, this would be your twentieth, I believe."

"How time flies," quips James Bond.

"Yes, well, Double-O-Seven, why don't you establish a record by actually returning this one."

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Old Relics Omega" on our Definitive List. This is the scene from which that name was originally derived. [link]
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Follow James Bond Watches on Twitter

2009-08-31T10:12:00.007-04:00

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As many have noticed, things continue to move even faster in the world of James Bond Watches.

Last year, Quantum of Solace made a strong hit in theaters, thanks to EON Productions. The previously illusive original, literary James Bond watch was identified for the first time, and covered in an exclusive, major feature article for WatchTime.

"Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" is now less than 12 months out from its June 2010 opening at the National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, Pennsylvania.

As a supplment to our James Bond Watches website and this Blog, we've registered with Twitter to keep fans, researchers, and collectors updated real-time on the latest. Additionally, we'll alert you to all additions and updates on the main James Bond website as they come along.

It's time to Follow James Bond Watches on Twitter! [link]

http://twitter.com/bondwatches
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James Bond Watch Registries announced

2009-08-29T07:24:00.004-04:00

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James Bond Watches is pleased to announce that five limited edition watch "registries" have been created in support of Omega 007-model collectors.

To date, a total of 40,035 wristwatches have been released among five styles since the very first, which commemorated 40 years of James Bond films in 2002. Sequentially-numbered to 10,007 and 5,007 pieces, these include both Omega Seamaster and Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean configurations.

Additionally, James Bond Watches has created a general index to all watches included in this growing study.

www.jamesbondwatchregistries.com [link]

Individual James Bond Watch Registries currently available can be accessed directly via the following LINKs.

2008 Omega Seamaster "James Bond," limited to 10,007 pieces [link]

2006 Omega Seamaster "James Bond," limited to 10,007 pieces [link]

2006 Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean BIG SIZE "Casino Royale," limited to 5,007 pieces [link]

2008 Omega Seamaster "James Bond 007 Collector's Piece," limited to 10,007 pieces [link]

2008 Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean "Quantum of Solace," limited to 5,007 pieces [link]

Response to our "soft" announcement has been incredible, with information coming in from both owners and those eager to share information on watches they've spoted for sale. We are, as you'll see for various model Postings, interested in "stories" as well.

These are fantastic groups to be a part of!
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Licence to Kill: The most recent James Bond digital wristwatch

2009-08-26T10:32:00.007-04:00

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This trailer for Licence to Kill is themed around a James Bond watch with red light-emitting diodes (LED), book-ending and threaded throughout the presentation.

Notwithstanding is appearance on the wrist of Timothy Dalton in-character as the legitimately then-current EON Productions 007, does "the fact" that it did not actually appear in that film make it any less a James Bond watch?

It's clear from interviews that Timothy Dalton sets the bar extremely high as a James Bond actor who thoroughly studied the Ian Fleming books and was deeply committed to making his portrayal of the character consistent with that. Elements of "The Hildebrand Rarety" and Live and Let Die are immediately recognizable from Mr. Fleming in Licence to Kill.

And one of the most important purposes served by any James Bond watch is to further plots by encouraging us to feel a sense of urgency through a focus on time.

The essence of the "thriller" genre.
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Original James Bond Hamilton Pulsar watch ad

2009-08-21T16:13:00.004-04:00

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One of the things I find almost as exciting as collecting physical James Bond watch pieces is getting my hands on physical, period advertisements.

Some of these are, of course, direct tie-in promotions to individual movie releases. Others promote watches simply on their own accord, with attributes and benefits laid out like a snapshot locked on the culture, and technology, and moment of history clearly not of today.

This Hamilton Pulsar advertisement for "The Time Computer" here is just starting to yellow. The things clearly meant to fascinate consumers of the early 1970s are curious now on the cusp of the year 2010.

Five of the six leading bullet points are things we take for granted.

Like so many James Bond watches, it's a presentation that reminds us of all that would have made this watch desirable even if it didn't have a Double-0 connection.
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Tension and James Bond Watches, part 1

2009-08-20T22:43:00.004-04:00

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Introduction to the fifth "Fun" category: "Tension and James Bond Watches."

Other than keeping our eyes on the time, how are James Bond watches used to build tension? Let's see here.

GoldenEye

EON Productions, 1995

James Bond has been exposed while infiltrating the command center of former ally Alec Trevelyan. In a scene that lasts less than 15 seconds, beginning around 1 hour, 51 minutes into the film, 007 seems most vulnerable here, as he's up against an opponent who has an insider's knowledge of MI6 functioning.

Shuffling through items on a table apparently taken from Bond, Trevelyan has all the dialogue here.

"So, how is old Q? Up to his usual tricks?

"The watch--," he says, gesturing for 007 to remove what he's wearing.

"Ah--. New model," Alec Trevelyan observes, comparing Bond's Omega Seamaster to his own, as a light replacing the triangle marker on its rotating bezel blinks red. "Still press here, do I?" he asks, pushing what on a typical wristwatch of this type would be its Helium release valve.

The light stops blinking. And the bombs it was set to remotely trigger are deactivated.

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Updated Trevelyan Omega" on our Definitive List. This is the scene from which that name was originally derived. [link]
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Serendipitous James Bond Watch Uses, part 1

2009-08-18T08:36:00.008-04:00

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Introduction to the fourth "Fun" category: "Serendipitous James Bond Watch Uses."

This isn't the "Not Elsewhere Classified" group of references. Rather, these are specific, conscious uses of James Bond Watches for something other than horological intents. Here, we're also talking about applications of an ad hoc nature.

Thunderball

Glidrose Productions, 1961

This is a particularly nice reference, as Bond's watch is used to validate the performance of the first gadget-watch to appear in the canon.

Chapter 12, titled, "The Man from the CIA," has Felix Leiter delivering on behalf of the CIA special equipment that 007 had requested through Section A before he left London.

"Leiter went to the cases, selected one, and opened it. He came back carrying what looked like a Rolleiflex camera in a portable leather case.... Leiter took off his wrist-watch and strapped on what appeared to be another watch. He slung the 'camera' by its strap over his left shoulder. 'Now run those wires from the watch up my sleeve and down inside my coat. Right. Now these two small plugs go through these holes in my coat pocket and into the two holes in the box.... Man with a camera and a wrist-watch.'

"'... Only difference is that it's a very small watch mechanism and that sweep second-hand is a meter that takes the radioactive count.'"

The phosporous numerals on the dial of James Bond's watch are radioactive. Leiter moves the registering probe of his camera-and-watch Geiger Counter proximal to 007's wristwatch to confirm the functioning of the device.
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Timing Is Everything on James Bond Watches, part 1

2009-08-17T12:45:00.007-04:00

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Introduction to the third "Fun" category: "Timing Is Everything James Bond Watches."

"Thriller" was the genre into which Ian Fleming himself placed his original James Bond stories. In essence, these are adventures that pit the hero against the clock. On James Bond Watches, we're looking at the signature wristwatches that 007 has so effectively used to track his great countdowns.

On Her Majesty's Secret Service

EON Productions movie, 1969

Between 1 hour, 23 minutes, and 1 hour, 25 minutes, into the plot here, James Bond makes use of the chronograph he's wearing to time a cable car run.

Having blown 007's cover as Sir Hilary Bray, Blofeld locks 007 in a mechanical room at the top of the line. Using the watch to record how long it takes the conveyance to move from one end of its line to the other, he is able to calculate how long he'll have to move out from the building, dangling and advancing hand-over-hand toward its return.

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Sir Hilary Bray Rolex" on our Definitive List. It is the only watch Bond wears in this disguise, and it's only as Sir Hilary that he wears it; hence the name. [link]
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Keeping Time with James Bond Watches, part 1

2009-08-16T12:41:00.013-04:00

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Introduction to the second "Fun" category: "Keeping time with James Bond Watches."

These are specific instances where a 007 wristwatch is simply used to tell time.

Live and Let Die

EON Productions movie, 1973

Roger Moore is introduced as James Bond in film with a watch that arguably sets the tone for his tenure in the role.

Bond is home here, in bed with Miss Caruso, when the door buzzer sounds. Counsulting his watch, the time appears as 5:48am. Precisely displayed, of course, since the watch is an LED digital.

This image appears just under eight minutes into the film.

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Bedroom Pulsar Hamilton" on our Definitive List. This is the scene from which that name was originally derived. [link]
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Sexy James Bond Watches, part 1

2009-08-14T11:11:00.011-04:00

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Introduction to the first "Fun" category: "Sexy James Bond Watches."

These are specific instances where a 007 wristwatch is directly associated with a romantic encounter in which we see James Bond involved.

Tomorrow Never Dies

Eon Productions movie, 1997

The scene finds Bond heavily engaged with an instructor, when he receives a call. Finding the phone amidst bedclothes and securing a communication channel, the contact is from Miss Moneypenny.

"James? Where are you?"

"Oh, Moneypenny. I'm-- I'm just up here at Oxford, brushing up on a little Danish."

To which the instructor pouts, "Little?" Bond signals her to be quiet.

"I'm afraid you're gonna have to kiss off your lesson, James," Moneypenny responds. "We've got a situation here at the Ministry of Defense. We're sending the fleet to China."

"Uh-huh," Bond acknowledges. "I'll be there in, uh, an hour." He has consulted his watch, and this is between 23 and 24 minutes into the movie.

"Make that thirty minutes."

Bond (translated in subtitle): "Goodbye my sweet."

Moneypenny: "You always were a cunning linguist, James."

Reference The Definitive List

James Bond Watches has labeled this the "Cunning Linguist Omega" on our Definitive List. Moreover, this is the scene from which that name was originally derived. [link]
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Next up: How many (fun) ways can James Bond watches be categorized?

2009-08-13T14:27:00.005-04:00

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Get ready for both content and a challenge here.

Loyal readers of this Blog could no doubt name all sort of ways to "categorize" James Bond watches. But how many of them are fun?

Let's find out.

Starting tomorrow, the James Bond Watches Blog will begin introducing topics. No more than one example per day will be given, from books or films, specific to those areas. I'll make the categories (for now) and provide the first citation for each.

Then my readers will have the opportunity to Comment with no more than one example per category until Posted, to flesh out all lists. Where appropriate, recognition will be given.

Don't be surprised if you see what develops here come to be used elsewhere, in the very near future!
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Why doesn't Daniel Craig's Goldfinger Rolex look like the Goldfinger Rolex?

2009-08-06T16:52:00.003-04:00

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Almost a year ago now, this James Bond Watches Blog referenced an EMPIRE magazine article ostensibly identifying the Goldfinger Rolex Submariner model number. [link]

Since then, there have been a lot of images circulated on the web and in print showing Daniel Craig wearing a vintage Rolex Submariner on a grey-and-black NATO-style strap. Some folks have tied this to the EMPIRE quote, which was referenced here on September 24, 2008.

"Daniel Craig likes to tell a story about his watch. It's a Rolex Submariner 6358, an exact replica of the one he remembers Sean Connery wearing in Goldfinger."

Allowing for a typographical error in the 6358 [sic] versus 6538 referencing, has anyone seen an image of Mr. Craig wearing a screen-consistent version of the Goldfinger Rolex? You know: Proper strap coloring and dimensions; bezel markings; et cetera.

If this is to be taken as the definitive ID, based on definitive records, then we wouldn't want to confuse anything we'd seen that doesn't look like what obviously appears in the film, right?
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Fleming stepdaughter endorses NAWCC exhibit

2009-07-26T14:24:00.003-04:00

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Ian Fleming was Fionn Morgan's stepfather.

Thanks to her love for the man known worldwide as the man who created James Bond, his one and only Rolex wristwatch has been preserved. That watch will be displayed here in the U.S. starting next June, as part of a special National Watch & Clock Museum exhibition titled, "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches."

Prior to our formal announcement of this exciting news last month at the NAWCC Annual Convention, Ms. Morgan issued the following statement of endorsement, published here for the first time.

"Ian would have enjoyed the idea of displaying his own Oyster Perpetual as part of an exhibition of James Bond watches. He was fascinated by mechanical things and always wanted the best.

"As the fans well-know, Ian Fleming drew from his personal life and tastes when creating the details of Agent 007's personal preferences. This Rolex was Ian's first and only, and important enough for him to have kept to the end. So now visitors can see the particular wristwatch that he 'gave' Bond to wear in the On Her Majesty's Secret Service book.

"I further think that Ian would have been pleased with all the other watches and the creative uses to which they have been put in the movies throughout the years that have followed.

"It is wonderful to see the James Bond legacy presented through the watches that this character has worn. It is further most gratifying to see Ian's Explorer 1016 displayed as the origin of this long and continuous chronology. Collectors and the public will learn a lot through this exhibition."

Fionn Morgan shared some additional, personal thoughts in connection with this; complete details are available on the James Bond Watches website. [link]

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]
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Huffington Post acknowledges "phenomenon of 'the Bond watch'"

2009-07-22T08:49:00.009-04:00

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Click here to read the original content of this specific Blog Post.

Also note: We've moved!

Be sure to update your links for our James Bond Watches Blog.
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Bond, watch communities united behind exhibit

2009-07-10T09:49:00.015-04:00

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It's been truly gratifying to see the coverage and enthusiasm that's come in the wake of our first property announcement for the upcoming "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibit at the National Watch & Clock Museum.

Thank you to both communities (with so much in common!) for letting us know you're behind this.

Here's a list of what I've seen so far, websites, Forums, and Blogs that deserve special recognition here from James Bond Watches.

Boris' Watch Collector Blog [link]
Chronos magazine [link]
CommanderBond.net [link]
Duncan's Daily Despatch [link]
Elite Choice [link]
InSync magazine
Fratellowatches [link]
Jake's Rolex Watch Blog [link]
James Bond Dossier [link]
Jewelers Lounge [link]
Licence to Blog [link]
Luxist [link]
MI6.co.uk [link]
NAWCC Bulletin [link]
Perpetuelle.com [link]
Rolex Forums [link]
Selectism [link]
TimeZone [link]
ViaLuxe [link]
Watchshop.uk [link]
Watch Talk Forums [link]
WatchTime magazine [link]

These are the places committed to letting you know where you can get connected with James Bond watch history, research, and fun. Next time you interact with these folks, let 'em know you're grateful.

Have I left anyone out? Let me know by Comment to this Blog.

Respectfully,

Dell Deaton
NAWCC Guest Curator
"Bond Watches, James Bond Watches," June 2010 - May 2011
www.jamesbondwatches.com

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]
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"Original James Bond watch coming to America"

2009-07-09T17:41:00.007-04:00

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This effort is one of the core reasons I created the James Bond Watches website and this associated Blog.

That is: To share genuine items of history associated with the 007 character; his creator, Ian Fleming; and the so-many folks with EON Productions who've perpetuated that enjoyable legacy now for so many decades.

So, yes-- an agreement has been reached to display the original Ian Fleming / James Bond watch as the first piece on loan for the "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibit at the National Watch & Clock Museum, June 2010 - May 2011.

Text of the NAWCC Press Release and associated images can be found on the James Bond Watches website. [link]

To give you some idea of lead-times, I was actually in communication with the folks I've come to know in the Fleming family around Thanksgiving of last year.

The importance of making this piece widely available for folks to see here in the United States has made it necessary to hold off on posting items such as that here (recall how long the WatchTime article had to be kept under wraps!).

I figure my readers will understand: It's more important to get the word out across a variety of channels than it is to create visibility for this site as "first with the scoop" on something that can mean the difference between you actually being able to see the watch, as opposed to just hear about it elsewhere.

That said, you can count on much more to come--!

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]
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"Discovered: James Bond's Rolex" translated to German for publication in Chronos magazine

2009-07-04T08:47:00.008-04:00

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Shortly after publication of my WatchTime feature article, "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex," we were approached by Chronos magazine to translate those findings into German for its highly discerning audience.

That issue is now available.

It's now estimated that in excess of 100,000 people (across three magazine circulations) have had the opportunity to read about the Rolex model 1016 Explorer that Ian Fleming had in mind when writing about the original, literary personal watch of choice for James Bond in the novel, On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

That was Mr. Fleming's own wristwatch as well: The only Rolex he'd ever owned, according to his stepdaughter, Fionn Morgan, who was interviewed as part of my extensive research.

The Rolex documentation that I've reviewed dates the case manufacture to the fourth quarter of 1960. Its movement is the 1560 caliber and, right up until its display starting last year at the Imperial War Museum, this watch featured the same Radium dial that it had when worn by the creator of Agent 007.

See prior coverage on this Blog for further details.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]
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InSync covers James Bond watches a'la NAWCC Annual Convention

2009-07-02T23:18:00.006-04:00

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Hot off the press!

InSync magazine was kind enough to send me an advance copy of its 2009 NAWCC convention coverage of my "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" presentation.

Shown here is a page from its August 2009 issue.

The accompanying image they use features Pierce Brosnan as Agent 007 from the movie, Die Another Day. (The photograph is courtesy of Omega SA, I believe.)
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NAWCC 2009 and Bond Watches: Report 3

2009-06-20T11:07:00.009-04:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" provided me the opportunity to share for the first time a number of exclusive images related to my research and findings on the original, literary James Bond Rolex of Ian Fleming.

Among what only 2009 NAWCC conference attendees have seen in public so far: Photographs of original Rolex documentation dating the Ian Fleming Rolex Explorer 1016, as referenced in my February 2009 WatchTime article, "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex." I was also able to share a close-up image of the Fleming-Bond Rolex Explorer 1016 with its production dial intact, from prior to its replacement for display as part of the Ian Fleming Centenary exhibit at the Imperial War Museum in London.

Access to these is critical to proper identification of the watch.

In addition to the Saturday presentation, a virtually identical Rolex Explorer 1016 was displayed as part of the historical timepieces exhibit at the 64th Annual National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

It is believed that this watch was produced by Rolex as little as just 7 hours before the Ian Fleming watch case.

The images shown here are of that "brother" Rolex Explorer 1016 shown last week in Grand Rapids.

Because this wristwatch retains its original dial, the configuration shown here is actually the closest representation of what 007 creator Ian Fleming referenced when writing about the original James Bond Rolex in his novel, On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

The James Bond Watches website has added an evolving complilation of Rolex Explorer reference 1016 images in a variety of aspect ratios and resolutions. [link]

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and access to hi-res image downloads without watermarks. [link]

NAWCC Home Page [link]
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NAWCC 2009 and Bond Watches: Report 2

2009-06-19T11:25:00.006-04:00

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Last Saturday, June 13, 2009, the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors Convention ("NAWCC") was open to the public.

My contribution to that, of course, was the presentation titled, "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" One of the neat opportunities I had because of the Grand Rapids venue was an opportunity to share some of the Michigan connections to this fascinating field of collecting.

This Blog and the James Bond Watches website are proudly located in the Great State of Michigan. My NAWCC exhibit also included the attendee card I've kept from my visit to The Henry Ford (Museum) when the "Bond, James Bond" international traveling exhibit was here in Dearborn.

It was also my priviledge to reference some truly original research related to the often-debated Rolex Submariner appearances on the wrist of actor Sean Connery as James Bond. In its October 2004 issue, WatchTime published a contribution by Robert Sprague, Member of the American Society of Master Projectionists, from Petoskey, Michigan, detailing his analysis of individual film frames by way of reaching conclusions.

Among other things, his reference to "radium indices" provided a common-ground segue into some revelations of my own that I was able to expand upon for the first time during my NAWCC presentation. More on that in this Blog with Report 3.

Complete James Bond watch / early Rolex Submariner contribution by Robert Sprague, as published WatchTime, October 2004 [link]

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]

NAWCC Home Page [link]
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NAWCC 2009 and Bond watches: Report 1

2009-06-17T10:40:00.008-04:00

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Grand Rapids was the place to be last week for watch collectors here in the United States.

"James Bond watches" featured significantly in a number ways at the 64th Annual National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors Convention.

For my first post-event Report, I'll begin with the special exhibit room that featured historical timepieces. Security was provided, of course (although not to the status of any "license to kill," I was told; yes, I asked).

The images here are of James Bond watch models that I displayed from my private collection. Breitling, Hamilton (Pulsar), Omega, Rolex, and Seiko were all represented. Also included were some of the licensed product timekeepers that have been released over the years. Along with my first edition, first impression of On Her Majesty's Secret Service, by the creator of Agent 007, Ian Fleming.

An image of Timothy Dalton as James Bond from Licence to Kill provided visibility at a distance. His watch, of course, clearly visible up-close.

What at first was anticipated to be a static display took on a new direction for me after the NAWCC Awards Banquet. The exhibits manager asked if I'd be willing to give a private, VIP showing in the secured room after hours. After that ad hoc presentation, a number of subsequent requests followed. During move-out, security told me that the Bond case was opened more than any other at the convention.

At the risk of sounding cliché here, this really gets to the heart of why I collect James Bond watches: Sharing them with others, and seeing the joy the "theme" of this collection brings to folks.

It was also a nice barometer for what I anticipate will be a very popular exhibit at the National Watch and Clock Museum, "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches," June 2010 through May 2011.

More news to come--.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]

NAWCC Home Page [link]
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NAWCC "Bond" lecture starts at 11:00am today

2009-06-13T04:39:00.003-04:00

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Grand Rapids--

Sorry for the late notice, friends (just got this information myself). My presentation titled "Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?" will start at 11:00am on Saturday, June 13, and run until noon. Q&A will follow.

It's been a great National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors convention. And, particular to our interests, the display of James Bond watches and related materials has been very well received. Full reports from after the event, and photographs, to come.

Also look for an important NAWCC announcement around 12:00pm today that will be of great interest I'm sure to all who are interested in James Bond watches.

Looking forward to seeing some of you here!
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"How I Found the Original James Bond Watch"

2009-06-09T06:30:00.004-04:00

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Further details on the literary James Bond watch have just been published by the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors ("NAWCC") in its journal, Bulletin.

As I wrote for the first paragraph: "Details related to my making this first definitive identification were published in the February 2009 issue of WatchTime magazine. So this is not an article about 'what' Agent 007 wore, but, rather ... 'How was it found?'"

Source documentation discussions include research involving the manuscripts and an Uncorrected Proof of On Her Majesty's Secret Service from the archives of the Lilly Library on the campus of Indiana University at Bloomington. Ian Fleming's 1962 letter to Playboy magazine.

And, of course, Rolex paperwork.

Never-before-released technical details take readers inside the original James Bond Rolex. Specific caseback markings are discussed, its movement caliber disclosed. Moreover, the June 2009 issue of the NAWCC Bulletin describes the Radium dial with which Mr. Fleming's Explorer was fitted at manufacture.

Look for a bit of controversy as well. For example, Ian Fleming obviously knew about the Rolex Submariner worn by Sean Connery during location filming for Dr. No in early 1962. James Bond's creator then went on to clearly reject that as his own intent for the 007 wristwatch: Repeatedly.

NAWCC members started receiving their copies of the June Bulletin last week. If you're not a member (you should be!), you can purchase this issue separately through their Gift Shop, and they'll mail it out to you.

NAWCC Contacts [link]
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Presenting: "James Bond Watches" at the 2009 NAWCC National Convention

2009-05-29T09:30:00.011-04:00

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"Where would James Bond be without his wristwatch?"

This presentation will be made during the 64th Annual NAWCC National Convention on Saturday, June 13, 2009, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

As noted in a press release from the sponsoring organization, "The talk will be given by Dell Deaton, author of the February 2009 WatchTime feature that details his discovery of the original literary-Bond wristwatch....

"Dell Deaton is also creator of the www.jamesbondwatches.com website."

For additional details and information on James Bond-related watches to be displayed throughout the three-day event, see the James Bond Watches website. [link]

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]

The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, Inc. ("NAWCC"), is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) association with approximately 23,000 members, representing 55 countries. Complete conference information, including registration and hotel details, can be found on the NAWCC website. [link]
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"Discovered: James Bond's Rolex" now online

2009-05-28T09:51:00.014-04:00

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This news just in-- "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex - James Bond, like his creator Ian Fleming, wore a Rolex Explorer I," by Dell Deaton (WatchTime magazine, February 2009, pages 84 - 93).

This is the original article that first definitively identified the literary James Bond watch. It's now available for reading online in its entirety online through a limited rights agreement granted to WatchTime for its website.

Copyright is retained by Dell Deaton, further distribution not permitted without prior written agreement.

The historical significance of the research detailed in this feature article, along with the exceptional credibility associated with its WatchTime print publication, motivated James Bond Watches to make this agreement. WatchTime has a circulation of 60,000 readers, but the history of the 007 character and legacy of Ian Fleming suggest an ongoing interest in this discovery.

As noted on the James Bond Watches Home Page, the watch Mr. Fleming referenced for Bond in his novel, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, was a Rolex model 1016 Explorer on a fixed-link 7206 bracelet with deployant clasp.

A virtually identical Rolex Explorer 1016, produced during the very same quarter of 1960 as the Fleming-Bond watch, will be displayed and discussed in a James Bond wristwatches presentation at the NAWCC National Convention (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors) next month in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Saturday, June 13, 2009.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and information. [link]

"Discovered: James Bond's Rolex," by Dell Deaton, from February 2009 issue of WatchTime, in *.pdf [link]

WatchTime magazine Home Page [link]
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How do you date Rolex watches?

2009-04-25T08:04:00.003-04:00

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Among other forms of extensive accountability, I include a case number in my February 2009 WatchTime article.

"Ian Fleming acquired his Rolex Explorer I sometime between the summer of 1961 and spring of 1962," I wrote there. Thus as a reader, you are free to research on 596,xxx and verify your own conclusions.

But as authors James M. Dowling and Jeffrey P. Hess write in The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches, 3rd edition (2006): "There has never been full agreement about the case numbers on early Rolex Oysters. The company has refused to release details from their archives and the market has been left to flounder around with insufficient data to establish a correct dating / serial number sequence." Additionally, some serial numbers were re-used, starting around 1953.

"Fortunately when they began to reuse these numbers, it was during the period when they were also stamping the date of construction inside the case back.... Using these date codes it is now possible to give definite dates to the previously uncertain period in the mid-50s. It was not until the late 50s that Rolex began to use the seventh digit and from this point, the numbering system became logical and able to be followed with any hope of accuracy" (page 389).

Vintage Rolex Sports Models, 2nd edition (2006), by Martin Skeet and Nick Urul, states on page 130 the following "approximate production case number dates," associate anything before 670,000 as having come before 1950. Since the Rolex 1016 Explorer that served as reference for the original (literary) James Bond watch was not launched until 1959, that cite would not apply.

Skeet and Urul date 1960-62 for the 500,000 to 900,000 case numbers.

Acknowledging help from Jeffrey P. Hess, authors Richard E. Gilbert, et al., in their Complete Guide to Watches (2008) peg case number 400,000 at 1956 and 600,000 at 1957.

Also deferring to Mr. Hess (and James Dowling), John E. Brozek in The Rolex Report, 4th edition (2002), does not list any six-digit serial number dated after the second quarter of 1953. He does importantly note, however, that the manufacture date "is no guarantee as to when your watch was shipped from the factory." In other words, retail (selling) dates would be later, perhaps much later.

Again, as I wrote for my WatchTime feature, I have documentation on the Fleming-Bond watch direct from Rolex; so that's the basis I've used for reporting on my research.

But the fictional James Bond character has worn a variety of different Rolex models over the years. Short of having paperwork in hand, deciding on which references to follow in dating them will often prove a challenge. It also makes for a bit of fascinating irony here: The nexus between some of the earliest, most illusive 007 timepieces, and key points of uncertainty if not outright disagreement, on production sequences.

Choose the sources you rely upon carefully.
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Second literary James Bond (Ian Fleming) Rolex article to be published this June

2009-04-24T08:12:00.004-04:00

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Late yesterday, my draft article for a second feature on the original James Bond watch passed its final in a sequence of peer reviews. So we're pleased to announce that it will be published this coming June.

As the opening paragraph reads, "The literary, or original, watch of personal choice for Ian Fleming's James Bond character is a Rolex 1016 Explorer. Details related to my making this first definitive identification were published in the February 2009 issue of WatchTime magazine. So this is not an article about 'what' Agent 007 wore, but, rather, ... 'How was it found?'"

It's my understanding that the magazine featuring this article will be available at the NAWCC National Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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More cautions about attempting James Bond watch identification based on images

2009-04-22T11:54:00.010-04:00

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By way of preamble, I'll start with a couple of things you all now know (or can readily, independently confirm).

Omega SA officially confirmed its "James Bond 007 Collector's Piece" on March 13, 2008. [link] Actor Daniel Craig wore an Omega 2201.50 Seamaster Planet Ocean as James Bond in Quantum of Solace, as noted in the James Bond Watches Blog on September 29, 2008. [link]

Prior to these verifications, I surveyed folks who had only seen images and asked for their opinions regarding identifications.

These would be among the same people who frequent Forums with strong claims, about, say, the model number of the original (literary) James Bond watch based on images of an Ian Fleming painting by Charles Amherst Villiers posted on the Internet in violation of copyright. [link] Or publicity photographs of Sean Connery from the 1960s.

Here are some reality checks to consider.

On March 11, 2008, I ran a Poll in which 86 people responded to the question: "Are photos of Omega James Bond 007 Collector's Piece fake?" Based on images later confirmed to be sourced from Omega SA, itself, only 43% said they were not, compared to 49% who believed they were, in fact, fake. Results: [link]

On May 3, 2008, I ran a different, unrelated Poll in which 32 people responded to the question: "What case-sized Omega Planet Ocean wristwatch will James Bond wear in Quantum of Solace?" Based on high-resolution images leaked from filming then in progress, only 38% thought it was a 42mm, versus exactly half who were convinced (wrongly) that it was the 45.5mm case. [link]

That's why I wrote in my February 2009 WatchTime article regarding the Amherst Villiers painting for On Her Majesty's Secret Service, "I confirmed last summer that it captures Ian Fleming wearing his Explorer I, its dial reading 12:05." Conversely, I did not write that I used the image itself to confirm this Rolex ID.

Caution should be exercised when considering James Bond watch identification that relies too heavily on an image or images alone.
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Omega brand now most identified as James Bond watch among collectors

2009-04-21T08:58:00.005-04:00

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Earlier this year, I ran a Poll on a highly-trafficked, general interest watch Forum where I asked, "Which watch brand do you most associate with James Bond?"

From the options offered, 52% said "Omega" and 41% said "Rolex" in January 2009.

This is rather a remarkable change from a virtually identical instrument I processed prior to the release of Casino Royale.

Controlling for variables to maintain consistency between the years, 44% said "Omega" and 53% said "Rolex" in September 2006.

Link to 2009 Survey on James Bond Watches [link]
Link to 2006 Survey on James Bond Watches [link]

Media inquiries are welcome for use rights and additional background. [link]
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Exclusive wallpapers: Omega 2541.80 Seamaster (quartz) James Bond watch

2009-04-15T08:04:00.004-04:00

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Click here to read the original content of this specific Blog Post.

Also note: We've moved!

Be sure to update your links for our James Bond Watches Blog.
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NAWCC launches new website

2009-04-04T16:07:00.005-04:00

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The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors ("NAWCC") announced the launch of its new website in their eNewsletter to members. The URL for access remains the same.

In addition to the purpose and scope described on their Home Page, James Bond Watches would like to highlight two areas of particular interest to our Blog readers.

First, there's a full section on the 64th NAWCC National Convention coming up this summer, June 10-13, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Read more about this on pages 156 and 176 of the April 2009 NAWCC Bulletin, with more coverage to come here on James Bond Watches after April 15 (by agreement with NAWCC).

Second, you can navigate to prelimary information on the upcoming National Watch & Clock Museum special exhibit titled, "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches," June 2010 through May 2011. Follow Museum / Library > Museum Exhibits > Upcoming Special Exhibits.

Keep watching the NAWCC website for more information. We also invite our readers to join and become a member with full benefits, as James Bond Watches has.

National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors Home Page [link]
64th NAWCC National Convention [link]
National Watch & Clock Museum [link]
"Upcoming Exhibit Schedule" for National Watch & Clock Museum [link]
"Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" overview, per James Bond Watches [link]
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James Bond Watches Home Page updated

2009-04-02T08:07:00.003-04:00

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We've updated the James Bond Watches Home Page to better support researcher and media use of its almost 200 content pages and more than 700 images.

Our major graphic features the original James Bond watch: Ian Fleming's personal Rolex 1016 Explorer. Below this, you'll see a direct link to our most popular feature, the first definitive list of 007 watches that have appeared in the EON Productions films. A "News" section currently lists the upcoming NAWCC exhibit of James Bond Watches, opening in 2010.

Along the right, we've indexed all known James Bond watch brands, beginning with the current choice, Omega. Brief summaries provide quick-reference context for Omega, Rolex, Seiko, Breitling, and Hamilton Pulsar wristwatches related both to the Ian Fleming Books and the Albert R. "Cubby" Broccoli movies.

Like all pages on James Bond Watches, indexes for both watch brands and key 007 stories appear (with links) as well.

James Bond Watches Home Page [link]
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Up to 128,317 visitors have now seen the original literary James Bond Rolex Explorer watch

2009-03-31T12:00:00.004-04:00

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In conjunction with The Ian Fleming Centenary, the Imperial War Museum ("IWM") of London hosted a special exhibit titled, "For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming and James Bond." Among numerous artificts, the author's only personal Rolex wristwatch was publicly displayed for the first time ever.

Over the course of 45 weeks, some 128,317 admissions were sold to this exhibition, according to Imperial War Museum figures just released to James Bond Watches. On average, 16% of all IWM visitors additionally went to see the Ian Fleming display.

Ian Fleming's personal Rolex model 1016 Explorer was the basis for his description of the original literary James Bond watch in the novel, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, written in 1962 and published the following year.

Month-by-month details are available on the main James Bond Watches website [link]

Additionally, "For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming and James Bond" exhibition information is still available on the Imperial War Museum website [link]
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"On Her Majesty's Secret Service," present-day: James Bond's Rolex Explorer 114270 watch

2009-03-30T09:23:00.005-04:00

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In the February 2009 WatchTime, I wrote: "James Bond may continue wearing a watch after it becomes 'old,' as his friend Felix Leiter once observed; but when it's time for replacement, he chooses new."

This was Ian Fleming's original intent when he wrote On Her Majesty's Secret Service in 1962. One of the reasons he shifted villains from SMERSH to SPECTRE, for example, was to help avoid dating his stories. Thus, a present-day read of On Her Majesty's Secret Service would have James Bond wearing a model 114270 Rolex Explorer.

Further to this, I'd offer the following research. The original 1016 Rolex Explorer on which Ian Fleming based his first James Bond watch is over 45 years old now. By comparison, in a 2006 survey of folks who wear "modern" Rolex wristwatches, I found that 93% of those timekeepers were less than 15 years old.

But say you assume (a) that Bond is now old enough to have bought his Rolex 1016 Explorer "new," as stated on page 241 of On Her Majesty's Secret Service (first edition), and (b) that his lifestyle somehow lends itself to the survival of a watch that's coming up on five decades old. This would put Agent 007 among the exclusive 8% of all "vintage" collectors who routinely wear a Rolex watch dating back to the early 1960s.

And all of this, of course, must further set aside mission-related watch issues, including bullets to the dial and crystals shattered in use as knuckle-dusters. (With the right servicing, I wouldn't be worried about it remaining waterproof.)

That's the basis for my reference in WatchTime to a Rolex 114270 Explorer for a 2009 read of On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

James Bond Watches survey of modern Rolex owners [link]
James Bond Watches survey of vintage Rolex owners [link]
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Price history sampling: Omega 2907.50.91 Seamaster Planet Ocean wristwatch

2009-03-26T11:01:00.003-04:00

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James Bond Watches has started sampling Completed eBay Auction Listings for the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean model 2907.50.91 "Casino Royale" Limited Edition a little over a year ago. In researching 007 timepieces, this is the licensed product variation on what we refer to as the "Solange Omega," the first watch Daniel Craig is seen wearing as James Bond in Casino Royale.

This information is not intended as an endorsement of any source per se. Rather, it is provided as another tool to empower both buyers and sellers in further trade in these exceptional pieces of James Bond history.

We'll continue to update the following page with future sales prices as they become available. Meantime, the current summary can be found on the primary James Bond Watches website. [link]
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Omega releases detailed images of James Bond watch movement for Baselworld 2009

2009-03-25T19:37:00.005-04:00

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In its lead-up to Baselworld this year, Omega SA released a number of detailed images featuring its proprietary "co-axial" escapement.

All James Bond watches released so far during the Daniel Craig tenure as Agent 007 have featured this co-ax technology, specifically, the Omega calibre 2500.

"In simple terms, the escapement is the heart of the mechanical watch, as it maintains the oscillations of the balance, the watch’s regulating mechanism. George Daniels’ vision – the Omega Co-Axial Escapement – reduces the friction among the parts that transmit energy to the other components. The result is a reduced need for servicing for the movement and, above all, greater stability of the watch's precision over time," Omega SA states in its release.

See www.jamesbondwatches.com for complete text of the original pre-Basel release from Omega SA and additional images at full resolution. [link]
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Positive ID: Seiko T001-5019 TV James Bond Watch

2009-03-24T17:12:00.007-04:00

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James Bond Watches is pleased to confirm model T001-5019 as the "Liquid Crystal TV Seiko" featured in Octopussy. This is the watch shown receiving a closed-circuit television signal during the Q-Branch field operation scenes, then used by Roger Moore as Agent 007 to track Octopussy's kidnapping throughout the climax of the film.

The pictures included with this Blog Post show one of the two original wristwatches provided by Seiko for the Octopussy film production.

It is owned by Doug Redenius, Vice-President of the Ian Fleming Foundation. Last month, when the watch was on display along with other EON Productions film artifacts at the Detroit Boat Show, jamesbondwatches.com was granted special access to his Liquid Crystal TV Seiko T001-5019 for the purpose of capturing these exclusive photographs.

Collectors have often been frustrated by a lack of specific model number to go by in seeking acquisitions. Thanks to Mr. Redenius and the Ian Fleming Foundation, the uncertainty has ended.

Click on either image above to see it at a higher resolution.

The Ian Fleming Foundation [link]

James Bond Watches:
"The List" of EON Productions Movie Wristwatches [link]
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Exclusive wallpapers: Omega 2531.80 Seamaster James Bond watch

2009-03-23T14:38:00.003-04:00

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The James Bond Watches website has just updated its evolving complilation of Omega Seamaster reference 2531.80 (2531.80.00, 25318000) images in a variety of aspect ratios and resolutions. [link]

The signature blue-dial, blue-bezel Omega Seamaster automatic, with its skeleton hands is the model that was worn by Pierce Brosnan as James Bond Agent 007 in Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day. These exclusive www.jamesbondwatches.com images are free for download, subject to personal use only.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and access to downloads without watermarks. [link]
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Exclusive wallpapers: Seiko 0674-5009 LCD James Bond watch

2009-03-20T17:43:00.007-04:00

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The James Bond Watches website now features an evolving complilation of Seiko 0674-5009 LCD images in a variety of aspect ratios and resolutions. [link]

Known as the "Atlantis Seiko," this is the same model wriswatch as was worn by Roger Moore, playing James Bond Agent 007 in The Spy Who Loved Me. These exclusive www.jamesbondwatches.com images are free for download, subject to personal use only.

Media inquiries are welcome for additional rights and access to downloads without watermarks. [link]
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Wrist check! Seiko 0674 LCD

2009-03-19T17:25:00.016-04:00

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"007 TO REPORT HQ. IMMEDIATE M."

When James Bond pulls that message from his "Labelmaker Seiko" model 0674-5009 in The Spy Who Loved Me, a thick-cased watch makes sense. Q-Branch modifications aside, it was also the state of technology in the LCD timepiece on which that apparent gadget is based when the movie was released in 1977.

But how does this watch with its protruding caseback wear today?

Just fine, thank you very much.

Earlier this year, I put my Seiko 0674-5009 on for daily use, 24/7. Its two screen options either tell you the time or the date; day-of-the-week is circled from standing options along the top of the dial. From a functional perspective, I quite like the fact that the "light" button is on the face, rather than the side, for one-finger-touch illumination.

As for its pronounced backside, the watch sat comfortably, solidly against my wrist. It didn't rock, nor did the watch overall slide up and down my wrist any more or less than the other James Bond watches I own and routinely wear. In fact, my admiration for Seiko engineering came to an all-time high as I marvelled at their solution to the problem of fitting required technology of the day into this package. What at first appears to be an oddly-configured caseback is, in fact, one of the better examples of ergonomics I've seen when considering the challenge of both keeping the watch firm on its wearer's wrist, yet allowing for extreme variability in its range of flex. Angled geometry is key.

Lifestyle considerations keep it from becoming a daily wear for me. But the liquid crystal diode Seiko 0674-5009 (a'la Roger Moore as James Bond 007 in The Spy Who Loved Me) is definitely in my rotation.
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Price history sampling: Pulsar P2 "Astronaut" model Hamilton wristwatch

2009-03-17T15:13:00.004-04:00

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James Bond Watches has started sampling Completed eBay Auction Listings for the Hamilton Pulsar model P2 "Astonaut" a little over a year ago. In researching 007 timepieces, we refer to this as the "Bedroom Pulsar Hamilton," the first watch Roger Moore is seen wearing as James Bond in Live and Let Die.

This information is not intended as an endorsement of any source per se. Rather, it is provided as another tool to empower both buyers and sellers in further trade in these exceptional pieces of James Bond history.

We'll continue to update the following page with future sales prices as they become available. Meantime, the current summary can be found on the primary James Bond Watches website. [link]
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"Fake Watches Are for Fake People"

2009-03-16T17:18:00.010-04:00

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Amen!

The Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry ("FHS") estimates that over 40 million fake Swiss watches are made each year (compared with exports of almost 26 million authentic Swiss watches in 2007), and that the frauds generate net profits of around one billion dollars.

In addition to the huge costs this means in terms of enforcement and the tangential activities illegally fostered through this trade, there are real, direct costs to the James Bond watch collector. The casual buyer faces ever increasing risks of paying premium amounts to purchase pieces that are worthless at virtually any price.

As an important step to combat this, the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie and FHS have joined forces to launch an international anti-counterfeiting campaign. Strategically aimed at consumers, the pointedly titled campaign, "Fake Watches Are for Fake People," was unveiled mid-January.

"This wouldn’t be such a thriving industry without the individuals who buy fake watches, and who fail to realize the full extent of the damage they cause, in particular in human terms. The priority in the fight against counterfeiting must therefore be to speak directly to these potential customers and have them realize that what they believe is a harmless purchase has serious consequences on companies and nations."

Banner ads in a variety of formats are available for download and use on websites willing to support this message.

[more]
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Exclusive production-dial photo from the original James Bond watch (a'la Ian Fleming)

2009-03-13T07:52:00.008-04:00

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No one has ever seen a public display of "the original dial that had illuminated so much of one great James Bond story," as I wrote in the February 2009 WatchTime.

When Ian Fleming's personal Rolex Explorer was on public display at the Imperial War Museum, April 17, 2008, through March 1, 2009, its dial had been replaced by a Rolex Service Centre. This, because "someone raised concerns about 'protecting' visitors from the radioactive material used to make its now-half-century-old dial luminescent."

Prior to that, the Fleming-Bond Rolex Explorer 1016 had remained fitted with its production dial.

Included with this Post is a close-up from the very first image that was provided to me of the Ian Fleming Rolex, featuring the dial as it looked before the switch. Here, that still-"Hard Rolex" was keeping time during a trek through the Swiss Alps.

This is not only a James Bond Watches exclusive, but, in fact, we do not believe any photograph identifying the original Ian Fleming watch dial has been published before this. So, now you've seen it.

Questions? Feel free to Post questions here about this or any other aspect of my WatchTime article.
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Exclusive bracelet photo from the original James Bond watch (a'la Ian Fleming)

2009-03-12T12:41:00.016-04:00

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The bracelet is perhaps the most controversial of my findings with regard to the Ian Fleming Rolex. As stated in my February 2009 feature article for WatchTime, it is a 7206 with fixed links.

Yet in the first edition of On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Mr. Fleming described the original James Bond watch as being "on an expanding metal bracelet" (page 166). My research indicates that "this doesn't mean the 'expanding-link' option offered by Rolex" at the time the Fleming-Bond wristwatch was sold. Rather, "Fleming had established in Thunderball that 'flexible' was a bracelet with springs in its links."

To the best of my knowledge, the photograph here is the first published of the literary Bond watch from the angle of the caseback and, with attention to the clasp, bracelet, and end-piece fitting to the lugs. So I've included this (one of the early shots used in my development work for the "Discovered: James Bond's Rolex") exclusively here. The clearly visible number "58" only provides initial help in identification. Rolex Service documents state "BRACELET: 7206/0 ROLEX STEEL OYSTER" and nothing further.

So my confirmation of the fixed-link configuration is based on reports from folks who've actually held and examined the watch itself. This includes staff at the Imperial War Museum where it was displayed for the Ian Fleming Centenary, family members, and, of course, information from the person who wore the watch for the 25 or so years before it was exhibited to the public.

Bigger picture, Vintage Rolex Sports Models, by Martin Skeet & Nick Urul, includes a nice summary of the long-term shortcomings inherent in Rolex expanding link bracelets. It thus makes little sense that Ian Fleming would have selected this option for himself, on an otherwise tough sports watch - let alone that he would have done so on behalf of James Bond. Neither is it likely that such a bracelet would have held up well in the daily use to which it was subjected while worn by Fionn Morgan's son-in-law all these years.

Did I mention that he is an amateur boxer and wore the Ian Fleming Rolex Explorer (appropriately) throughout his climbs in the Swiss Alps?

Fixed links.

Questions? Feel free to Post questions here about this or any other aspect of my WatchTime article.
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What watch should Daniel Craig wear as Ian Fleming's Agent 007 in Bond 23?

2009-03-10T08:56:00.006-04:00

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This question was actually put forward last month in a Post titled, "James Bond vs Daniel Craig" on the Fratellowatches wristwatch Blog by Robert-Jan.

Apparently it's not too early to ask.

The catalyst seems to have been discussions of the Ian Fleming Explorer, which defines "Rolex" for the literary James Bond in On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

"What do you think?" Robert-Jan asks. "Should James Bond be wearing his inventor's Explorer? Or at least a Rolex? Or just whoever sponsors him? Please leave your thoughts in the comments!"

My answer may surprise you. [more]

Posts Tagged "James Bond" on Fratellowatches wristwatchblog [link]
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Is it appropriate to call the original (literary) Bond watch an "Explorer I" Rolex?

2009-03-09T12:53:00.013-04:00

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Some have questioned my use of the moniker "Explorer I" for the Rolex 1016 model that served as basis for the first James Bond watch.

Historical watch experts will note that the first "Explorer II," model 1655, wasn't launched until 1971. Vintage Rolex Sports Models, by Martin Skeet & Nick Urul, states that the 1016 was launched in 1959; in the February 2009 issue of WatchTime magazine, I state that the Ian Fleming Rolex was acquired "sometime between the summer of 1961 and the spring of 1962."

So there was obviously no need to differentiate the Fleming-Bond watch as a "Rolex Explorer I," right?

Well-- there is according to the Rolex Service Centre that took care of the Ian Fleming Rolex prior to its year-long exhibition at the Imperial War Museum. In separate documents dated February 11 and February 13, 2008, Rolex referred to this original James Bond watch as a "GENTS ST ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL EXPLORER I CHRONOMETER" (in addition to other identifying information).

I thought it was important to convey that to WatchTime readers.

Questions? Feel free to Post questions here about this or any other aspect of my WatchTime article.
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How do we independently verify that Ian Fleming owned just one Rolex?

2009-03-08T16:07:00.010-04:00

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There seems to be little question among those who've shown interest that Ian Fleming referred to his own, personal, wristwatch when writing On Her Majesty's Secret Service and describing the timekeeper(s) worn by Agent 007 in that novel.

But how can we be sure that his Rolex Explorer model 1016 was the sole reference for the literary James Bond watch? Recall that this is the position of my feature article in the February 2009 issue of WatchTime.

To summarize, my position is that Ian Fleming had no specific Rolex in mind for James Bond before the April 25, 1958, letter from a reader of his novel, Doctor No. The only "Rolex" reference prior to that was in Live and Let Die, written in 1953 and published the following year. During this period, Fionn Morgan lived in the Fleming home. She was born in 1936 during a previous marriage of the author's wife, Ann.

Ms. Morgan cooperated with me extensively in my original research on the Ian Fleming Rolex Explorer formerly displayed at the Imperial War Museum through March 1 of this year. Corroborating what I'd been told by other Fleming heirs, she stated clearly to me on several occassions that this was the first and only Rolex her stepfather had ever owned.

That's how we know, and the sourcing is clearly identified, subject to independent corroboration.

Questions? Feel free to Post questions here about this or any other aspect of my WatchTime article.
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Lawsuit alleges 3-second close-up of watch in movie is worth $80,000

2009-03-03T15:37:00.007-05:00

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How much is it really worth to a watchmaker for its brand to be featured in a motion picture?

Although it's hard to put a value on such product placements in a James Bond film, the question is frequently asked. And now, though it doesn't relate to any 007 feature nor featured brand (so far), we at least have another point of reference.

According to the March 2009 issue of Happenings, Millenium Films, producers of Righteous Kill with star Al Pacino, contracted with Tutima to feature one of its wristwatches on-screen in a close-up for three seconds. A price tag of $80,000 was attached to this deal.

To put this in perspective, IMDb estimates the films budget at $60 million, with a U.S. opening gross of $16.3 million. To date, Righteous Kill has earned $42.9 million worldwide. By comparison, Quantum of Solace has an estimated budget of $200 million, an opening gross of $67.5 million (US), and has to date earned $570 million worldwide.

Happenings is a newsletter of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors ("NAWCC").
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US Postmarks acquired on May 28, 2008, in commemoration of The Ian Fleming Centenary

2009-02-21T12:55:00.007-05:00

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Several people have contacted me about one of the images in my February 8 Blog Posting. [link] Specifically, the envelope with a US Postmark dated May 28, 2008, and an image of a Rolex Explorer model wristwatch.

This was one of a series of envelopes I produced in advance of The Ian Fleming Centenary. While in Bloomington, Indiana, at the Lilly Library for commemorations (and wrapping up research with Ian Fleming's original James Bond manuscripts which are archived there), I took some of these over to the local Post Office to have them hand-cancelled. The Rolex Explorer I shown here is from a set of the earliest photographs that were provided to me when I became involved in the "literary Bond watch" project that was published as a feature article in the February 2009 WatchTime.

In addition to the Bloomington Postmarks, I also managed to make it back to Detroit in time to secure some cancellations from my own area as well. There were perhaps half-a-dozen different images that I reproduced on envelopes; some are available for perusal on the main James Bond Watches website. [link]
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NAWCC to announce first acquisition for "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches"

2009-02-13T08:09:00.003-05:00

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The National Watch and Clock Museum has just completed the first display agreement for its "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" exhibition. Details will be released to the press in about a month or so.

I anticipate that this will set the pace for some unique and original wristwatches to follow.

"Bond Watches, James Bond Watches" will be open to the public from June 2010 through May 2011. The National Watch and Clock Museum is operated by the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors ("NAWCC"). I am proud to serve as "Guest Curator" on this exhibition.

Overview on www.jamesbondwatches.com [link]
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James Bond "Elektra-Torch" Omega wristwatch to be displayed in Detroit

2009-02-12T08:45:00.004-05:00

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Following up on my Post from yesterday, I got in touch with Doug Redenius, Vice-President of The Ian Fleming Foundation, to find out which of the Omega Seamaster watches from The World Is Not Enough would be on display at the Detroit Boat Show next week.

It's the Elektra-Torch Omega Seamaster model 2531.80 wristwatch.

Mr. Redenius describes this as the one "that illuminates the snow cave." An apt description. Again: This is one of the actual timepieces worn by actor Pierce Brosnan as James Bond 007 in The World Is Not Enough. The Detroit Boat Show is on my schedule for next week. So look to this Blog for updates from the exhibition.

The World Is Not Enough
"The Elektra-Torch Omega Wristwatch" Reference Images on www.jamesbondwatches.com [link]
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James Bond watches to be displayed at the Detroit Boat Show, February 14-22

2009-02-11T08:41:00.008-05:00

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Exciting news for those in the Detroit area, February 14-22. Two wristwatches featured in James Bond films will be on display at the "51st Annual Detroit Boat Show" at Cobo Hall. Here's the information they've released.

"Omega gadget watch from The World Is Not Enough."

"TV gadget watch from Octopussy."

I've additionally found that these watches are on loan from The Ian Fleming Foundation, based in Illinois. Each is from the personal collection of Doug Redenius, Foundation Vice-President.

The exhibition is sponsored by the Michigan Boating Industries Association, and James Bond is well-represented in support of their core mission. One of the few surviving "Q Boats" from The World Is Not Enough will be on display. They'll also have the "Bath-O-Sub," built by famous car designer George Barris for Diamonds Are Forever.

Want more information?

Detroit Boat Show, February 14-22, 2009 [link]

The Ian Fleming Foundation [link]

James Bond Watches:
"The List" of EON Productions Movie Wristwatches [link]
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Malicious attampts to wrest credit for my Fleming / Bond "WatchTime" article exposed, refuted

2009-02-08T07:07:00.024-05:00

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Like many of you who are passionate about watches and/or the topic of "James Bond," I frequent a (limited) number of Internet Forums and engage in discussions.

Unfortunately, a few individuals have abused these open soap boxes to libel my claim to authorship of the increasingly popular and visible article titled, "Found: James Bond's Rolex - James Bond, like his creator Ian Fleming, wore a Rolex Explorer I," in the February 2009 WatchTime magazine. Incredibly, many of the loudest voices had not even read the article. One Forum Moderator rationalized allowing libelous Posts to continue for days unchecked by saying that that Forum sometimes operates without moderation. That, and the fact the he has a job, seemed to justify for him his testy responses to my criticism that that Forum had supported the perpetuation of slander. Yikes!

Finally, in one of the most bizare twists of all in this plot, several folks actually suggested the burden was on me to prove my WatchTime article was not based on Forum Posts made long after my copy had been submitted to the magazine. In many cases, I suspect the motive was to have me raise the visibility of those making the accusations, acknowledging them; a nod from me would make them real, important.

The WatchTime article is my sole, original work. Period.

Near as I can tell, the people seeking to make this case do so based on a watch Forum Post dating to October 31, 2008. I weighed in on November 5 to complain that the Thread included images of an Ian Fleming oil painting by Charles Amherst Villiers used in violation of copyright. The site administrator finally removed the images on November 8, noting, "Reason: Violation of copyright...."

Ironically, it's obvious to anyone reading my article and the November 2008 Threads that that there is not only no issue, but that on central issues I disagreed with the fellow whose work others were now falsely claiming had influenced mine. When I found to my utter amazement that, going into this past weekend, that the Forum Poster from October 31, had never seen my article (he's in the United Kingdom), I made arrangements to get him a copy yesterday afternoon.

Here is his reply. It's reprinted in its entirety, with his permission; the emphasis, where included, is his.

Right, Dell has sent me the article, I have read it and, first and foremost it is a bloody good read. I enjoyed it enormously and would recommend it to anyone.

Second. While we are talking about exactly the same issue and covering very similar ground it is absolutely clear to me that no plagiarism whatsoever has occurred here. I simply cannot see how Rick, or anyone else saw plagiarism here as I certainly can't. As I am, in theory, the aggrieved party here, I think that my word on this can be definitive. I hope that is clear to everyone.

This is not simply because we disagree, there is actually a fair bit of agreement. However it is abundantly clear that Dell has researched this to a level of detail I have not. However, it also features a couple of easy errors (like the bracelet) that exposure to an expert like NeilC, or simply reading my thread (As I happen to own exactly that bracelet) would have dealt with. In short, it is clear, as much by what is wrong as what is right, that Dell has not been influenced by any threads or articles that have anything to do with me.

There are several point at which my articles are found wanting, I was unaware of the reader who recommended the Oyster Perpetual. I'm not sure if this is relevant yet but the point is that I missed it. Now, I think the stage is set for a discussion that will really bear down on this issue. I have, to some degree gone down the shallow evidence, deeper exegesis route while Dell has gone down the deep evidence, shallow exegesis route. Both routes are perfectly valid and, I suspect reflect the way we have been trained. As everyone knows my background is in Philosophy, I bet Dell studied Psychology...

On reflection, while Dell is clearly at least as stroppy and obsessive as I am, I really feel for him. He has spent ages researching an article and then along I come with a fast and dirty version. I like to think I wouldn't have responded as he did, but I would have been tested...

As it is we agree on the Explorer 1 but for largely different reasons. We disagree on which Explorer and we mostly disagree on why. I now see why Dell claimed I was dead wrong, Maybe I am and maybe I'm not but I assumed he was blustering when he said he had proof. He clearly wasn't. Another apology is due... However, He has proof of one watch (the 1016) but that does not preclude an earlier one. I think I have the ace with the observation about the date of the watch in the Villiers picture. Again, this is evidence that Dell was not copying: the temptation to respond to this would have been overwhelming.

All in all, some of my complaints stand, some do not. I think I have made it very clear which are which.

I really do recommend people read this article. I suspect there will be a spirited discussion on this and it will be more fun if you can see the starting points of both sides. More to the point, it is very good. He'll be in QP next!

Don't assume that this means Dell and I are bosom buddies, we are not. However, he has unclenched his fist and so I am reaching out...

Or is it the other way around?

Irrespective of that, congratulations on an excellent article Dell, you have earned them.

Oh, and the Sub is out. That's a fact!

It's not hard to guess the motives of those who make false claims. Or, for that matter, those who egg them on with their faux-innocent expressions of shock and asking to hear more. There are a lot of self-proclaimed experts who have a vested interest in pitching their own stories, claiming insider access and knowledge on the subject, and/or have products to sell. A revelation such as mine, rich in detail (eg, model number of the watch, Fleming family interviews) risks showing gaps in what they truly know and who they have spoken with in getting the information in which they seek to trade.

Jealousy is unquestionably at play. WatchTime has a readership of 60,000 and has one of the highest editorial submission requirments I've seen in the years through which my articles and books have been published. All that means a lot. Controversy also builds Forum traffic short-term; although that comes with a big risk in the face of how easily reputations can be compromised when false claims are exposed.

A couple of years ago, a book came out documenting litigation regarding the origins and character of "James Bond." This was in the last years of life for Ian Fleming, and it was sad to me how much of the so-called "evidence" presented was not refuted as it obviously could have been by a simple read of his spectacular books. He may have settled the case out of court, but, as history has shown, the lesser men who sought to question or take credit for his work eventually proved their worth with the obscurity into which they have descended.

I can surely empathize with Mr. Fleming.
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Announcing the first definitive list of James Bond watches in films by EON Productions

2008-12-31T14:05:00.007-05:00

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The first comprehensive list of every James Bond watch featured in the EON Productions films has just been released.

Wristwatches from all 22 movies to date are includes, Dr. No through Quantum of Solace, along with a reference image for each. Of immediate note is the fact that James Bond wore two or more timepieces per story as often as he wore just one. So each watch listed is identified by a unique name; in most cases, modified and gadget watches are further distinguised from their commercially-available counterparts depicted in the same movie.

In the coming weeks, we'll be commenting further on our overall approach to this monumental research task, what to expect with ongoing updates, and providing updated notes on each of the approximately fifty labeled watches we've Posted as of today.

Meantime, here's where you'll find the list: [link]

Enjoy! And, as always, feedback is welcome here.
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Second "From Russia with Love" James Bond timekeeper labeled "Gypsy Camp Watch"

2008-12-28T15:58:00.013-05:00

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Throughout most of the Gypsy Camp sequences in From Russia with Love, the James Bond watch appears to have a gold-colored case, light dial, and dark strap. (Putting aside for a moment any focus on continuity issues.)

Based on this and a number of the other very-first Sean Connery 007 films, there's no doubt that EON Productions saw the James Bond character as having multiple watches for each outing. Clearly this was part of the original concept.

This makes any simple listing of James Bond watches by film name reference, of course, obsolete. On the other hand, it opens an exciting new door to both collectors and researchers interested in pieces beyond sports models, and, perhaps, evidencing a bit more sophistication. [more]
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Second James Bond timekeeper in "Goldfinger" labeled "Fort Knox Watch"

2008-12-27T14:27:00.005-05:00

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Although the Rolex Submariner diver watch on a NATO strap is most closely associated with the EON Productions film, Goldfinger, here we have yet another instance where James Bond wears two different wristwatches.

Once again, the second watch appears to have a light-colored dial, gold case, and is worn on a dark strap.

The importance of this goes back to Ian Fleming himself. Throughout his original James Bond stories, he used specific watch styles and brands to flesh out the rich charactes who populated the world of his books. Hugo Drax, Tiffany Case, and Donovan "Red" Grant are all fleshed out by the timekeepers they wear. Part and parcel of what "getting back to the original Fleming" means.

More immediate to the Goldfinger movie, it suggests an operative with a bit more subtlety and sophistication; an agent before a commando with a military resume. [more]
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"WatchTime" magazine to positively ID Ian Fleming choice for James Bond's Rolex model

2008-12-23T09:37:00.015-05:00

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Fans have been focused on Ian Fleming's original choice for the James Bond watch since the 1950s. Only twice in those books do we see a reference to the brand, Rolex: In Live and Let Die (1954) and On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1963).

Why was no model ever specified?

Why was a brand only named these two times in a canon that includes fourteen published books spanning over a dozen years? Did both of those watches look the same? Was there a relationship between the first EON Productions movie-Bond Rolex Submariner and any literary-Bond watch model? Is it relevant what Ian Fleming, himself, wore on his own wrist - at any time in his life?

WatchTime magazine will have the definitive answers with its next issue.

In what I've been told will run as "a major feature story" (and one of the longest articles in its history), WatchTime will reveal details never before available. These include exclusive information from interviews with Ian Fleming family members, private documents, 007 archives at the Lilly Library, and a unique look at the fictional James Bond character in complete context.

The guesswork on this question is about to definitively end. The original James Bond watch, brand, model, and more, will be named in the next WatchTime!
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National Watch & Clock Museum announces "James Bond Watches" exhibit

2008-12-19T12:59:00.007-05:00

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The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors ("NAWCC") has officially announced a special exhibit titled "Bond Watches, James Bond Watches." This will be open to the public as part of its National Watch & Clock Museum, June 2010 through May 2011.

Highlights will include timepieces associated with Ian Fleming's fictional Agent 007 from both the literary and motion picture incarnations dating back to the 1950s.

Featuring both permanent and rotating theme-based collections, the National Watch & Clock Museum is recognized as the largest and most comprehensive horological collection in North America. Today it holds over 12,000 items.

For the better part of 2008, I've served as Lead Consultant to the NAWCC and this project. In the coming months, this Blog and the James Bond Watches website will continue to provide updates specific on wristwatches to be featured - and maybe even a surprise or two! [more]
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Letter to "Playboy" gives insight to Ian Fleming's post-movie interest in James Bond

2008-12-15T21:43:00.011-05:00

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Well before signing on the dotted line with EON Productions, Ian Fleming had already laid down distinctions between the areas where he and James Bond would overlap in character, and where they would not.

To 007 he gave a unique scar on the cheek. And Fleming kept his own signature bow tie to himself.

Yet at the same time, there were intimate details (provided by an author hallmarked by the details of his prose) where efforts show a conscious desire that Fleming and Bond remain irrevocably one.

Some who were around in the early 1960s say that Ian Fleming was early to accept Sean Connery as the big screen personification of the iconic secret agent he had created. The author was also certainly in Jamaica in the early months of 1962 when Dr. No began filming there. Fleming subsequently visited Pinewood Studies as work continued, and attended the Dr. No premier when it opened. He allowed for the influence of filming to show in his first draft of On Her Majesty's Secret Service, referring to the then-virtually-unknown Ursula Andress as a star.

Those scenes he saw filmed in Jamaica featured Connery as 007 wearing a Rolex Submariner. It is the dominant wristwatch in that movie, as evident to us in 2008 as it was to Ian Fleming on the big screen in 1962.

Notwithstanding, in a December 11, 1962, letter responding to a Playboy magazine request for a "description of James Bond," Mr. Fleming curiously reserved subtle, but significant details to himself. For example, he went out of his way to highlight Bond's eyes as "blue-grey," like the author's (and unlike Mr. Connery's).

Most relevant to James Bond Watches, the letter to Playboy also spoke specifically to the 007 choice of timepiece. A Submariner model is not specified.

Why--? [more]
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If James Bond wears Ian Fleming cuffs, can the author's choice ... revisited

2008-12-13T12:40:00.009-05:00

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Two months ago today, I Posted an observation that appears to have been the first to suggest an interesting wardrobe parallel between the current James Bond and 007 creator Ian Fleming.

The distinctive cuff photos.

This particular Blog entry, as well as a number of others specific to Ian Fleming and Rolex, generated a great deal of traffic on my site. So let me say a bit more emphatically here that the watch seen here on the wrist of Mr. Fleming was never associated with James Bond; certainly not in any of his books.

We don't play favorites here at James Bond Watches. By way of equal time, here's a juxtaposition with Sean Connery as James Bond in a jacket where the cuff treatment is clear.

This image is actually from the film, Dr. No (as opposed to the Daniel Craig image, which was clearly a studio shot apart from the film Quantum of Solace). Rather again, then, we have here a distinctive parallel to the Ian Fleming choice in cuffs.

Or should I say-- the trend in following Mr. Fleming's cuff style actually dates to 1962.

You can still review the Daniel Craig / James Bond / Omega watch image on my original Blog from October 13, 2008: [link]
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"James Bond: The Legacy" authors ID gold "Dr. No" film watch a Rolex

2008-12-12T16:30:00.006-05:00

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As folks have joined efforts to identify the model of the first James Bond watch to appear on the silver screen, I've been asked, "Why assume it's a Rolex"?

Well, first off, there seems doesn't seem to be any disagreement that preparations for the first James Bond film, Dr. No, included a degree of attention to detail regarding the timepiece Sean Connery was to wear as Agent 007. Before many people much noticed anything other than the Submariner model in that film, the instistance was, "Of course! Bond can only wear a Rolex." Et cetera.

Why would it make sense then, that once a second watch was identified, it would not be held to this same standard?

Moreover, the gold watch versus diver's watch change is not just an appropriate wardrobe adjustment for context (ie, the Sylvia Trench watch is worn with tuxedo, in the casino, and the Submariner in the field). The gold watch is arguably more important to characterization as the watch we see first when James Bond is introduced, even before the reveal on the face of Sean Connery.

Is anyone suggesting that that is not an important watch? That for that watch somehow any random brand would do?

Clearly, the authors of James Bond: The Legacy don't seem to think so. Not only are they the source of the often quoted (and sometimes misquoted!) mandate that James Bond "could not just wear a watch, it needed to be a Rolex," and the story of EON producer Albert R. "Cubby" Broccoli providing his own, personal Rolex - right off his wrist - to the production of Dr. No.

They're also the ones who've labeled as a Rolex that light-dialed, gold-cased watch worn by James Bond in his early scenes with Sylvia Trench in Dr. No. [more]
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How did Ian Fleming become familiar with the Girard-Perregaux watch brand?

2008-12-11T08:13:00.002-05:00

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The Girard-Perregaux name is so often referenced in association with the original James Bond novels that some of the less studied references have mistaken put it on the wrist of 007 himself.

Donovan "Red" Grant, Chief Executioner of SMERSH, actually wears the only such piece cited by Ian Fleming, in From Russia, with Love. It's one of "the golden trophies of his profession."

Specifically, Mr. Fleming put it among the "glittering pile" next to his head as he lays naked near a pool in the sun.

That collection "contained the typical membership badges of the rich man's club, [including] a bulky gold wristwatch on a well-used brown crocodile strap. It was a Girard-Perregaux model designed for people who like gadgets, and it had a sweep second-hand and two little windows in the face to tell the day of the month, and the month, and the phase of the moon. The story it now told was 2.30 on June 10th with the moon three-quarters full."

Interesting detail, that tracking of moon phases and the moon being three-quarters full in this passage. Full moons are not a good time to be around Red Grant, as noted by the creator of James Bond. Temperamental fellow was he, to say the least.

But how did Ian Fleming come to be familiar with the Girard-Perregaux watch brand for use in this incredible character development?

Henry Chancellor knows. Based on his unprecedented access to source material, he has come to extol "the highly successful editorial partnership" between Fleming and his friend William Plomer. Among his copy editor's queries retained by the 007 author, he found the following in a series of notes simply titled, "From William, with Queries," re From Russia, with Love.

"Why not Girard-Perregaud (sic) for the watchmakers? It's such a nice name and they're good watchmakers. [Spelling to be confirmed - perhaps it's Girard-Perregaux]." Brackets and text within are Plomer's.

Fleming wanted a watch to flesh out the character of Grant. Plomer gave him its name.

Partnership indeed!
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James Bond's watch from "You Only Live Twice" is not what you were told

2008-12-07T21:06:00.020-05:00

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The Internet is full of assumptions that the watch worn by Sean Connery as James Bond in You Only Live Twice "must be" a Rolex Submariner.

And commentators who failed to notice if 007 was even wearing a wristwatch this time out.

Well, you gotta have a good eye on the movie, because the watch when worn is above the wrist and easily allows the signature shirt cuffs of the early EON Productions efforts to conceal it.

Look closer still now. Gold case. Light-colored dial. And nothing anywhere close to a diver's bezel on this discretely presented field operative (true to the approach of Ian Fleming himself, who often chose particular wristwatches as a way of further defining the characters he created).

As a matter of fact, this watch in You Only Live Twice looks a lot like the "Sylvia Trench" model worn by Bond in the first scenes of Dr. No! [more]
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Refuting the vocal minority on its complaints about Bond Omega bracelets

2008-12-06T14:16:00.020-05:00

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A few people have contacted me about unsubstantiated Posts they've seen on the Internet reporting so-called bracelet failures on Omega watch models associated with the James Bond films.

These alarmist arguments seem based in fundamental misunderstandings (if there's any real understanding at all) regarding Omega engineering, coupled with a bias, I guess, against any approach that doesn't comport with how they, themselves, would design things. Attacks target both the Brosnan-style Omega Seamasters (including the co-axial model featured in Casino Royale) and the current Planet Ocean 42mm model 2201.50 that appears in Quantum of Solace.

Specifically, this relates to the use of pins and sleeves in link assemblies, and how they peform after bracelet re-sizings.

Well, you know me--

Rather than simply perpetuating the chatter, I decided I'd survey folks who both actually own one or more of the Omega James Bond watches in question, and who are people with very exacting standards for how higher-end wristwatches should perform.

Final results will Post to my website down the road. But for now, prelimary feedback from 54 owners so far shows that 94% percent of respondants have had the bracelet on their Omega watches resized and have had no issues whatsoever with failure of the pins and/or sleeves. Only two people reported a problem or failure, but neither had the Omega come off their wrist; one person refused to answer my survey.

As they say on the TV show, then, I'd call this myth busted.

See James Bond Watches Survey, 2008 [link]
See James Bond Watches Survey, 2006 [link]
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Index references to all James Bond watch brands are now linked on our site

2008-12-05T20:02:00.006-05:00

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Check out the navigation bar at the bottom of each page on the primary James Bond Watches website and you'll see that all watch brands featured in the original Ian Fleming books and Eon Productions films are now linked.

This feature is designed to make it easier for researchers, collectors, and the media to quickly access an index specific to any of these interests.

Breitling. Hamilton (Pulsar). Omega. Rolex. Seiko.

Scope of information under each will vary. First and foremost, we've continued to be deliberative in what we present - limiting it to what's "confirmed," as opposed to simply adding content for the sake of content, or repeating what everyone else out there has grabbed. (As you look at some of the Posting dates, you'll see that some of this research has been literally been years in development.)

Highlights for jamesbondwatches.com resources include: Exclusive survey data, technical references as well as basics for the new James Bond watch owner, and incredible images in high-resolution.

Be sure to bookmark these pages: Bigger things are coming and you'll want to keep an eye on the source!
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