What: 2019 Aston Martin Vantage Color: Q by Aston Martin Zaffre Blue Metallic(metallic UNI; AM6030; Aston Martin) VIN: SCFSMGAW5KGN01180 Mileage: 22,622 miles Price at Time of this Writing: $96,500 CarFax:Link Location: Federal Way, WA Auction listing:West State Motorsport
We’ll be the first to admit it- of all the Tailors featured in our regular rotation, Q by Aston Martin generally isn’t one of them- and that’s a shame. Aston is, after all, a legendary brand that makes a stunning car which also happens to depreciate like a rock. This particular example, finished in the absolutely stunning Zaffre Blue Metallic is just $96,500. Sure it’s 6 years old, sure it’s done 22,622 wonderful miles, but we’re talking M3 money here for something that’s sure to turn more heads than a BMW sedan ever could. With a clean CarFax and the much, much more reliable AMG V8 under hood, and an asking price that wouldn’t begin to touch a Paint to Sample 911 of similar vintage, this Aston is well worth a good hard look.
The first-of-its-kind Palm Beach Edition DB12 Volante brings the highest level of Q by Aston Martin personalisation to the open-top Super Tourer
Nautical exterior and interior features curated by the British ultra-luxury performance brand’s in-house bespoke division, incorporates unique patterns and materials to celebrate the Palm Beach lifestyle
Limited to only one example in Frosted Blue Glass paint, the Palm Beach Edition DB12 Volante was created exclusively through Aston Martin Palm Beach
Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin Palm Beach, in partnership with the ultra-luxury performance brand’s bespoke service Q by Aston Martin, commissioned a one-of-a-kind DB12 Volante that blends renowned British craftsmanship with Palm Beach-inspired design themes. The DB12 Volante incorporates unique patterns and materials to celebrate Palm Beach and further elevates the elegance of Aston Martin’s 680PS open-top Super Tourer.
The Palm Beach Edition DB12 Volante is a tribute to oceanic blue, featuring an exclusive Q by Aston Martin Frosted Glass Blue exterior paint. The exclusive paint color exhibits qualities unique to the use of glass flakes within the topcoat, creating the unmistakeably mesmerising shimmer effect that perfectly encapsulates the south Florida sun. This is only achievable through hand spray application due to the complexity and delicate nature of this colour. The open-top Super GT also features a Club Sport White pinstripe applied to the front splitters, side sills and rear bumpers, highlighting the DB12 Volante’s firmly planted sportscar stance, as well as Gloss Jet Black diamond-turned five-spoke wheels.
With the convertible top dropped, the cabin’s custom features and nautically themed duotone colorways are on display, so even those beyond the cabin may appreciate the custom commission. The Palm Beach Edition DB12 Volante features a bespoke palm-leaf motif incorporated throughout, including on the complementary Aurora Blue and Ivory leather and Spicy Red contrast stitching. Seats include palm-inspired embroidery, which extends to the center armrest and door-sill panels; even custom engraved polished aluminum Palm Beach Edition sill plaques feature the same palm pattern. The palm motif continues to the exterior, where the aluminum side strakes were milled to reflect the palm-style stripe. The DB12 Volante features open-pore Linear Light Olive Ash book-matched wood trim throughout, specifically chosen to emulate the rich texture of palm wood. With a nod to the coastal location, the vehicle has Palm Beach’s latitude and longitude coordinates embossed onto the leather dashboard. Diagonally book-matched veneers on the rear of the front seats mimic the palm motif and include metal inlays engraved with “Palm Beach.” The DB12 Volante is also fitted with Gloss Jet Black Diamond Turned Vantage wheels, which offers a more dynamic and sporty treatment.
“This extraordinary DB12 Volante model perfectly encapsulates the understated elegance of both Palm Beach and Aston Martin,” said Pedro Mota, Regional President of Aston Martin The Americas. “Through a collaboration with Q by Aston Martin and Aston Martin Palm Beach, we have created an exceptional sportscar that merges stunning performance, artistry and luxury. This Q commissions is bound to entice more customers to create a unique specification with Q by Aston Martin, where peerless creativity and British craftsmanship generate vehicles as unique and special for their owners.”
The in-house design and craftspeople at Q by Aston Martin are renowned for their exceptional skills to create truly bespoke Aston Martins, with the Palm Beach Editions serving as testaments. Offering limitless customisation opportunities, Q by Aston Martin invites customers to embark on a distinct commissioning experience, where every detail from subtle accents to fully tailored components, can be designed to their exact specifications, offering discerning collectors the opportunity to own a piece of automotive artistry at their unique tastes. The possibilities are endless from the dedicated team, ensuring no request is too ambitious.
Those interested in commissioning their bespoke Aston Martin and utilising the Q by Aston Martin services may inquire further with their local Aston Martin dealership.
About Aston Martin Lagonda: Aston Martin’s vision is to be the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British brand, creating the most exquisitely addictive performance cars.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is acknowledged as an iconic global brand synonymous with style, luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Aston Martin fuses the latest technology, time honoured craftsmanship and beautiful styling to produce a range of critically acclaimed luxury models including the Vantage, DB12, Vanquish, DBX707 and its first hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Aligned with its Racing. Green. sustainability strategy, Aston Martin is developing alternatives to the Internal Combustion Engine with a blended drivetrain approach between 2025 and 2030, including PHEV and BEV, with a clear plan to have a line-up of electrified sports cars and SUVs.
Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates, and exports cars which are sold in more than 50 countries around the world. Its sports cars are manufactured in Gaydon with its luxury DBX SUV range proudly manufactured in St Athan, Wales.
Lagonda was founded in 1899 and came together with Aston Martin in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown, and the company is now listed on the London Stock Exchange as Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc.
2020 saw Lawrence Stroll become the company’s Executive Chairman, alongside significant new investment. This coincided with Aston Martin’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team and commenced a new era for the iconic British marque.
So far as we know, the car you see here is the first Aston Martin Valour to hit the open market and come publicly available. We found it via UK Aston Martin specialists Nicholas Mee, and rather unsurprisingly… it is UK spec with right-hand drive.
Specifically, this car is believed to be one of just 20 UK-specification cars built, Aston Martin’s Q division finished it in Special Caribbean Pearl, a color that is a throwback to the 1960’s era of production. Inside, the car boasts bespoke Onyx Black, Sahara Tan and Alcantara.
Optional extras added to the specification of this car include; 110th anniversary pack, Bronze anodized front grille and rear strip, Bronze interior brightwork, walnut gear knob, Bronze coloured brake callipers, Carbon Fibre performance seats, Dark Knight carpets, gloss Carbon fibre lower package, gloss carbon fibre side fender vent and Exo blades, gloss Carbon fibre interior upper package, gold under bonnet pack, Q sill pinstripes, Q 21” Bronze tinted wheels, Q Satin Carbon fibre treadplates, Sports steering wheel with Carbon fibre and Alcantara, Havana Tan interior stitching and Tan seatbelts. Further, unique features to this particular car also include, Union Jack Aston Martin wing badges and leather headlining with Aston Martin artwork. A full and detailed specification is available on request.
The Valour is undoubtedly a future classic, with design highly-inspired by Aston’s one-off Victor. It’s powered by Aston’s 5.2-liter V12 twin turbo boasting 705 bhp and 550 lbs ft of torque. That’s all paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, offering the highest performance paired with an analog experience.
Check out more photos and an in-depth description on the Nicholas Mee website HERE.
Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition celebrates a 60-year partnership of two globally recognised British brands – James Bond and Aston Martin
Aston Martin’s first appearance in a Bond film was the now iconic DB5 in Goldfinger, inspiring the array of bespoke features
The ultra-luxury Super Tourer DB12 receives the 007 treatment courtesy of the marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin
4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing an astonishing class leading power output of 680PS/800Nm
The Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition is strictly limited to a run of just 60 cars
14 October 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is proud to present the DB12 Goldfinger Edition, crafted by the ultra-luxury marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin, in celebration of 60 years of the iconic association between Aston Martin and the James Bond film franchise.
What has become one of the most notable partnerships in cinematic history began with the release of Goldfinger in 1964, when the Aston Martin DB5 made its silver screen debut. The DB5 went on to become one of the world’s most recognisable cars and a crucial step in the brand’s illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline. Now, the latest evolution in that lineage is getting the 007 treatment.
To mark this historic milestone, just 60 DB12 Goldfinger Editions will be released worldwide, paying tribute to a relationship that has spanned over half of Aston Martin’s illustrious 111-year history.
DB12 Goldfinger Edition
Whilst the DB5 that featured in Goldfinger was equipped with all the gadgets needed to escape Bond’s adversaries, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition is focused on providing a more indulgent James Bond driving experience, incorporating subtle touches from the Goldfinger film.
Presented in the iconic Silver Birch paint colour synonymous with the DB5 in Goldfinger, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition establishes an immediate statement. Striking 21” multi-spoke wheels with a unique silver colour with a diamond treatment finish are complemented by black brake calipers, bespoke gold side strakes and a unique Aston Martin logo in silver with a black enamel. Crowned with a bright chrome ‘Q’ fender badge gives confirmation that this DB12 has received some truly special touches.
Inside this special edition, the leather Sports Plus seats are finished in the classic DB5 fluted style with an intricate Prince of Wales check perforation pattern, in a nod to a classic James Bond suit. This pattern extends to both the door inserts and the headliner, as well as being etched onto a unique treadplate. A polished sill plaque adorns the Goldfinger 60th anniversary logo.
Adding an elevated level of ultra-luxury to the interior of the car and awaiting the driver’s touch is 18k Gold Plated interior accents, decorating the drive mode rotary dial and the roller controls, as well as the notched gear selector which takes design inspiration from the golden tracking device used by Bond in the film. This theme is also continued through the trim inlays, as gold metal fibres are weaved into the 2X2 Twill Gloss Carbon Fibre.
A subtle nod for Bond aficionados is the ’eight of hearts’ embroidered onto the drivers’ sun visor, which references the playing card seen in last draw during the famous Miami pool scene in Goldfinger.
Unique gifting for DB12 Goldfinger Edition owners
Each Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition is presented with an array of gifts that are as exclusive as the car itself. Owners will receive a custom car cover and luxury key presentation box, along with a Silver Birch Speedform model and for something truly unique, a section of the iconic Furka Pass scene in Goldfinger in 35mm film. A 1/60 golden limited edition Aston Martin magazine will also be gifted to the new owners of the DB12 Goldfinger Edition. This selection of bespoke gifts will be presented in a Globe-Trotter attaché case, which replicates the design of the car; a Silver Birch body and a Prince of Wales check interior.
Owners can also enjoy a magnum of 2007 vintage Champagne Bollinger, individually numbered, with four exclusive Bollinger 007 glasses, elegantly presented in a bespoke Globe-Trotter Air Cabin Case.
Q by Aston Martin
DB12 Goldfinger Edition has been created by the marques in-house design experts at Q by Aston Martin; a personalisation and bespoke service – much like ‘Q Branch’ in the Bond films, that delivers endless possibilities. By accessing the skills of Q by Aston Martin’s designers and craftspeople, customers are invited to take a unique personal commissioning journey; one that encompasses everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components. Nothing is out of reach with the design team with endless possibilities to make their car a true one of a kind.
“The relationship between Aston Martin and the James Bond franchise is something that is always treasured”, said Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer. “It is an incredible occasion to be able to recognise six decades of this partnership with an extraordinary special edition, and pay homage to the very first – and perhaps most famous Aston Martin Bond car. Incorporating these subtle but impactful touches, developed by our own ‘Q’ department has created a very unique offering; one that will be adored by Bond fans across the world.
“Q by Aston Martin allows us to create truly unique vehicles, often initiated by the imaginations of our esteemed customers and I am delighted that we are able to support these ideas, not matter how big or small”.
The Ultimate Super Tourer meets 007
The Aston Martin DB12 delivers a sublime blend of performance, ultra-luxury and style, pushing the renowned DB bloodline to new heights. Powered by a formidable 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing a best-in-class power output of 680PS/800Nm with an advanced suspension system, DB12 ensures a thrilling yet refined driving experience.
DB12 was the first of Aston Martin’s next generation of sports cars to showcase the marques new infotainment system, designed and developed in-house using state-of-the-art technology. Offering the perfect balance between touchscreen controls and tactile physical switches, this is the first infotainment system built in-house at Aston Martin, which has allowed the brand to provide a uniquely bespoke system for entertainment and navigation. When driving a Bond inspired DB12, occupants need a soundtrack to match and as such, the Goldfinger Edition also comes with the Bowers & Wilkins halo audio system as standard
The Aston Martin DB12 was the first of the next generation of sportscars from Aston Martin. Since its 2023 debut, the super tourer has been joined by the new Vantage, DBX707 and the newly-unveiled Vanquish. First deliveries of this unique offering will commence in Q2 2025.
British brand celebrates first UK dealerships embracing ultra-luxury vision and new corporate identity
Aston Martin Birmingham official opened following £10m investment in new landmark location
New dealership in Leeds also follows successful opening of Aston Martin Edinburgh and global expansions in Europe and Asia
[source: Aston Martin]
3 October 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is enhancing its retail presence in the UK with the opening of a series of landmark new dealerships, building on the brand’s commitment to providing the most tailored ultra-luxury automotive customer experience.
The closest dealership to the marque’s global headquarters in Warwickshire, Aston Martin Birmingham is now officially open at a state-of-the-art new location in Solihull, following a £10m investment from dealer partner Grange, part of the Cambria Automobiles group.
The striking new location, with a unique exterior feature wall, covers a total footprint of 1204m2, and has created 30 jobs. Featuring a bespoke Q by Aston Martin customer specification lounge, it offers the very highest levels of luxury personalisation and the opportunity for clients to engage with the latest cutting-edge technology to digitally configure their own intimately personal Aston Martin alongside an extensive range of physical samples. The showroom presents eight curated Aston Martin models, provides an exquisite bespoke handover experience, and supports ongoing maintenance of vehicles with a seven-bay class-leading aftersales facility, providing the very latest equipment and technology. The new location builds on Grange’s successful opening of new premises for Aston Martin Edinburgh earlier this year.
Aston Martin’s footprint in the north of England is also boosted by the launch of a new state of the art 1468m2 dealership in Leeds, to be operated by Yorkshire-based automotive retailer JCT600. Located at its Brooklands location, the dealership offers customers an expansive ultra-luxury lounge and specification space, in addition to a display of 10 Aston Martin models at any one-time. Providing exceptional customer service across sales and aftersales, it also boasts a nine-bay dedicated aftersales facility and curated parts and accessories area, further heightening customer engagement and personalisation opportunities.
The new locations are the first Aston Martin dealerships in the UK to embrace the marque’s new ultra-luxury vision and stand-out corporate identity and draw design inspiration from Aston Martin’s first global flagship location, Q New York, located on the high-profile corner of Park Avenue and West 57th Street.
In addition to the new dealerships, Aston Martin is pleased to introduce Marshall Motor Group to the UK dealer network. Marshall will operate from Sevenoaks, representing the South East of England. The UK dealer network will continue to build a portfolio of new developments across the remainder of 2024 and 2025.
Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand & Commercial Officer at Aston Martin said: “The investment in these landmark new UK retail locations comes at the perfect time, as we bring to market the most diverse, dynamic and desirable portfolio within the ultra-luxury and high-performance automotive segments. The thrilling new Vantage, upgraded DBX707 and class-leading DB12 are now joined by our recently unveiled V12 flagship model, Vanquish, completing the strongest line-up of products in our history. It is brilliant to have this breathtaking portfolio available at world-class dealerships, providing the very highest standards in luxury customer experience.
“The significant long-term investment being made from our UK dealer network represents the positive trajectory of the Aston Martin brand along with a strong confidence in the new portfolio of models we have brought to market. Alongside our partners, we will continue to invest in the retail strategy for our home market and internationally, through development of our network including high-profile flagship locations including a Central London location now identified and set to be revealed in 2025.”
The new UK dealerships build on Aston Martin’s expansion in Europe with new showrooms and boutique locations in Baden-Baden, Nürnberg, Hamburg and Prague all to open before the end of 2024. Following the opening of a new landmark showroom inside the Peninsular Tokyo Hotel earlier this year, the brand’s presence in Asia will also be boosted by the official reopening of Aston Martin Seoul later this month, adding to the opening earlier this year of Aston Martin Suwon with new importer Britannia Auto, marking a new era for Aston Martin in South Korea.
About Aston Martin Lagonda: Aston Martin’s vision is to be the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British brand, creating the most exquisitely addictive performance cars.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is acknowledged as an iconic global brand synonymous with style, luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Aston Martin fuses the latest technology, time honoured craftsmanship and beautiful styling to produce a range of critically acclaimed luxury models including the Vanquish, Vantage, DB12, DBX707 and its first hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Aligned with its Racing. Green. sustainability strategy, Aston Martin is developing alternatives to the Internal Combustion Engine with a blended drivetrain approach between 2025 and 2030, including PHEV and BEV, with a clear plan to have a line-up of electric sports cars and SUVs.
Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates, and exports cars which are sold in more than 50 countries around the world. Its sports cars are manufactured in Gaydon with its luxury DBX SUV range proudly manufactured in St Athan, Wales. The company is on track to deliver net-zero manufacturing facilities by 2030.
Lagonda was founded in 1899 and came together with Aston Martin in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown, and the company is now listed on the London Stock Exchange as Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc.
2020 saw Lawrence Stroll become the company’s Executive Chairman, alongside significant new investment. This coincided with Aston Martin’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team and commenced a new era for the iconic British marque.
New and exclusive DBX707 AMR24 is a celebration of Aston Martin’s Aramco Formula 1® Team and their involvement at the pinnacle of motorsport
Exclusive DBX707 AMR24 Edition gets the same racing identity as the AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1®
Additional highlights are available to amplify the racing look even further to reflect the brand’s racing pedigree
[source: Aston Martin]
03 July 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is once again celebrating the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team with the release of an exclusive AMR24 Edition for the world’s most powerful ultra-luxury SUV: the DBX707. Named after the brand’s Formula 1® challenger, the AMR24 Edition is a DBX707 that shares a racing identity with both the AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1®.
The AMR24 F1® car is a culmination of countless hours of work and uncompromising craft, built on the strengths of its predecessor and with the learnings from Aston Martin Aramco’s most successful season to date. The first car to be designed and built at the state-of-the-art AMR Technology Campus at Silverstone, the 2024 challenger is a strong evolution, designed to provide the perfect platform for in season development throughout the relentless pursuit of progress.
In celebration of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1® on-track presence, the DBX707 AMR24 Edition raises the intensity and road presence even further for the brand’s critically acclaimed ultra-luxury, performance SUV. A curation of unique colour and trim features creates a DBX707 that unifies the exhilarating world of F1® with the world’s most dynamic and powerful luxury SUV, delivering truly dynamic, racing look.
The AMR24 Edition offers exclusive content to both the interior and exterior of the DBX707: A choice of Podium Green, Onyx Black or Neutron White paint, complimented by Aston Martin Racing Green or AMR Lime brake calipers and paired with the 23” Fortis wheel in either satin or gloss black, as well as an exclusive AMR24 engine plaque.
With the addition of either Lime Green or Trophy Silver accents to the sculptured in either gloss black or carbon, reminiscent of those on both AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1®, the F1® connection between the road car and those on the track is underlined.
Inside the AMR24 Edition, the Inspire Sport trim is available in a choice of two colourways, enhancing the overhauled cabin even further: Onyx black (Monotone) with a striking Lime stitch and piping, or Onyx Black / Eifel Green Duotone with a lime contrast stitch. Finer details can be specified with extended carbon fibre and dark chrome jewellery or titanium mesh complimented by satin chrome. The Aston Martin logo is also applied in foil to the dash panel and AMR24 is etched into the door sills, leaving occupants in no doubt of the Aston Martin racing bloodline. This identification is also supported by the application of a unique, lime hand-stitched saddle strap to the wireless charging station.
The intensity inside the DBX707 AMR24 matches the exterior with a new sound system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the DBX707’s interior volume and shape, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins acclaimed world-class loudspeakers.
The Aston Martin DBX707’s unique blend of immense performance, exceptional dynamics, unmatched style and true luxury saw it rapidly ascend to the pinnacle of the sector as the true Supercar of SUVs. The highlights are the 707PS/900Nm 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 and 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ automatic gearbox. Mated to a sophisticated all-wheel drive system capable of sending up to 100% of the torque to the rear axle on demand, the DBX707 AMR24 can launch from 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 193mph.
As such DBX707 is now the marque’s single powertrain in the British ultra-luxury performance brand’s SUV portfolio. Comprehensive upgrades to the interior, announced earlier this year, are central to the new DBX707 with the adoption of Aston Martin’s state-of-the-art in-house developed infotainment system and a striking new cabin architecture. The addition of the AMR24 Edition provides a true racing look underlining the DBX707’s driver-focussed credentials.
Marco Mattiacci, Aston Martin’s Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer said: “Now with a technically advanced interior to match its class leading performance, the DBX707 AMR24 Edition is a stand-out ultra-luxury SUV with incredible road presence. Aston Martin are competing at the pinnacle of world motorsport, which represents a key pillar in our brand and product strategy for our road cars, and it’s a real pleasure to offer this special edition in celebration of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1® Team.”
The DBX707 AMR24 Edition is now available for customers to order.
The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team will continue its fight for Formula 1® success at the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS BRITISH GRAND PRIX 2024 this weekend.
In the grand scheme of things, 2010 isn’t exactly the age of classic car we’ve come to expect from major auction house sales at concours weeks such as Monterey. So, when a newer car makes a showing, it’s usually very special or very tailored. In that vein, this green-on-green DBS Volante (chassis # SCFFDCCD2AGE11881) breathed on by in-house Aston Martin tailoring department Q definitely qualifies.
In this case, the car’s exterior is referred to as California Sage, while the interior is Absynthe Green. With only about 845 Volantes believed to have been produced, the drop-top DBS is already rare. However, green-on-green is a whole other level of rare… even from a British marque.
This car will be up for sale as part of RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction. We’re going to go ahead and share the full model description from RM below, but make sure to follow the link HERE in order to see the full photo gallery and learn information on where and when to bid.
Lot #208: 2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
Aston Martin’s luxurious open-top flagship; timeless styling meets modern performance
Finished in Q-specification California Sage over an Absynthe Green leather interior
Thrilling 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V-12 producing 510 hp
Driven a modest 16,172 miles at cataloguing; carefully maintained and accompanied by service invoices
One of only 845 DBS Volantes believed to have been produced in total
When it debuted at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the DBS Volante brought together two legendary names from Aston Martin’s past that, to devotees of the marque, needed no introduction.
First, DBS. The inaugural DBS arrived in 1967, toward the tail end of Aston Martin’s crucial David Brown era, as a muscular yet elegant tourer. The DBS nameplate was revived in 2007; true to form, it was an imposing machine wrapped in instant-classic styling. Motivation came from a 510-horsepower version of the company’s 5.9-liter V-12, which could be paired with either six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearboxes.
Second is Volante. Italian for “flying,” it has—since the introduction of the DB Short-Wheelbase Volante in 1965—been used to denote convertible versions of Aston Martin’s exquisite tourers. More than that, the word instantly conjures the carefree thrills and romance that one can only experience behind the wheel of a fine open-top automobile.
Of course, one need not be a student of Aston Martin history to recognize that the DBS Volante is something special. Luxurious features abound, including a power fabric top that can stow away in as little in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. Adaptive driving modes and carbon-ceramic brakes provide confident handling and secure stopping no matter how spirited one decides to get behind the wheel.
With only 845 examples believed to have been built in total, the DBS Volante is an undoubtedly rare beast. The car offered here further distinguishes itself with its stunning color combination: Q-specification California Sage over an Absynthe Green leather interior. Further options include the six-speed automatic transmission, 10-spoke diamond-turned Silver wheels, Magnum Silver meshes and Silver fascia trim inlays, and seatbelts in Warm Charcoal.
Enhancing its desirability, this DBS Volante has enjoyed a life of modest use and diligent care. After its acquisition by the consignor in 2019, it has been treated to regular maintenance as well as close attention to cosmetic condition, with further service to ensure proper operation of its convertible top; invoices on file detail the work performed. At the time of cataloguing, the car displayed only 16,272 miles.
Positioned as Aston Martin’s flagship convertible tourer when new, and every bit as impressive today, the DBS Volante seems destined to age as finely as the British marque’s great historical offerings. With its striking specification and history of limited use, this is an example worthy of careful consideration by the discriminating collector.
House of Q by Aston Martin opens in Burlington Arcade, London, celebrating 60 years of Goldfinger – the first James Bond film to feature the iconic DB5
Visitors to the experience will discover the subterranean world of Q
Secret Champagne Bollinger bar runs from 18 July until 4 August
[source: Aston Martin]
Gaydon, UK – The House of Q, a new pop-up experience by Aston Martin inside London’s prestigious Burlington Arcade, has been created to celebrate 60 years of Aston Martin’s long-running association with the 007 film franchise. The relationship began with the 1964 release of Goldfinger, the film which introduced James Bond to the now iconic DB5.
Launched alongside V57, a special James Bond anniversary edition of Aston Martin’s luxury lifestyle magazine, the House of Q by Aston Martin is accessed through a secret door within what appears to be a magazine newsstand inside House 12-13 Burlington Arcade, off Piccadilly in London’s Mayfair. V57 features a specially designed illustration on the cover as well as editorial detailing the relationship between Aston Martin and 007.
Covert messages will lead guests through a secret door. Visiting agents will then discover a speakeasy bar serving Champagne Bollinger. The bar is adorned with technical drawings and parts from the original DB5 with sketches, diagrams and schematics from the archives of both Aston Martin and EON Productions. On display is a top-secret Q flight case, along with hints at a future Aston Martin model, for those able to uncover it.
Often described as “the most famous car in the world”, the DB5 is the car that established Aston Martin as one of Britain’s most desirable luxury brands, quickly becoming the ultimate status symbol of the Swinging Sixties. First launched in September 1963, DB5 had a potent 4.0-litre engine and a top speed exceeding 150mph. Its styling, courtesy of Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera, created a sophisticated design, which when matched with its performance produced a car that people dreamed of owning. When DB5 was chosen to be in Goldfinger, laden with gadgets to help Bond fight his arch-enemy Auric Goldfinger, its iconic status was sealed forever.
Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer of Aston Martin, said: “Aston Martin and James Bond are two British icons, forever linked. We are delighted to be celebrating this important 60th anniversary throughout 2024, marking the continuation of what is cinema’s longest running and most successful product placement.
“The House of Q by Aston Martin provides something very special for our community of Aston Martin customers, enthusiasts, and fans of 007 to enjoy. We encourage everyone to join us on an immersive entry into the world of Bond and Aston Martin, celebrating our unique history with the films, spanning back to Goldfinger.”
The Bond theme is carried into every detail at the House of Q by Aston Martin where guests will see the original Goldfinger script, film posters and set photography. Sound is delivered by the stunning audio of Bowers & Wilkins, a brand with an enduring relationship with the music of Bond.
Guests may also head upstairs where they will discover the Configurator Lab. This will provide the opportunity for customers to work with Aston Martin design experts to configure their perfect Aston Martin.
The House of Q will host daily events, including design workshops hosted by the Aston Martin design and engineering teams.
From Burlington Arcade’s inception in 1819, it has positioned itself as an exclusive shopping destination for luxury brands. The prime location of the Arcade is parallel to Bond Street and has an entry via Piccadilly. Today the arcade is home to 47 brands specialising in accessories focused on watches, jewellery. leather goods, shoes and cashmere.
Trupti Shah, Commercial Director Burlington Arcade commented: ‘’Burlington Arcade is thrilled to be jointly celebrating this milestone year for James Bond and Aston Martin. The continued partnership between our brands is extremely exciting and we are honoured to be the landmark destination capturing this iconic moment in cinema history.’’
The House of Q by Aston Martin opens to the public on Thursday 18 July and can be found at House 12-13, Burlington Arcade, 51 Piccadilly, London W1J 0QJ. It will remain in Burlington Arcade until Sunday 4 August.
About Aston Martin Lagonda: Aston Martin’s vision is to be the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British brand, creating the most exquisitely addictive performance cars.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is acknowledged as an iconic global brand synonymous with style, luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Aston Martin fuses the latest technology, time honoured craftsmanship and beautiful styling to produce a range of critically acclaimed luxury models including the Vantage, DB12, DBS, DBX and its first hypercar, the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Aligned with its Racing. Green. sustainability strategy, Aston Martin is also developing alternatives to the internal combustion engine, with an ambition to create the world’s most thrilling and highly desirable electric performance cars, the first of which is targeted for launch in 2025.
Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates, and exports cars which are sold in 56 countries around the world. Its sports cars are manufactured in Gaydon with its luxury DBX SUV range proudly manufactured in St Athan, Wales. The company is on track to deliver net-zero manufacturing facilities by 2030.
Lagonda was founded in 1899 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown, and the company is now listed on the London Stock Exchange as Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc.
2020 saw Lawrence Stroll become the company’s Executive Chairman, alongside significant new investment, a move that led to Aston Martin’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport with the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One™ Team and commenced new era for the iconic British marque.
About EON: EON Productions Limited and Danjaq LLC are wholly owned and controlled by the Broccoli/ Wilson family. Danjaq is the US based company that co-owns, with Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, the copyright in the existing James Bond films and controls the right to produce future James Bond films. EON Productions, an affiliate of Danjaq, is the UK based production company that has made the James Bond films since 1962 and together with Danjaq controls all worldwide merchandising. For more information, visit 007.com & 007Store.com.
About Burlington Arcade Burlington Arcade opened on 20th March 1819 “for the sale of jewellery and fancy articles of fashionable demand, for the gratification of the public.” Today it is recognised as one of London’s most iconic landmarks and provides a unique outdoor but covered retail experience within a historical 205-year-old property. Situated in the heart of Mayfair, the 196-yard arcade runs from Piccadilly through to Burlington Gardens, parallel to Bond Street, and is home to Luxury Accessories, Watch and Jewellery brands. The portfolio includes a mix of vintage and new, combining heritage luxury with emerging brands, that share a passion for craftsmanship.
Similarly iconic, the Beadles, originally recruited to safeguard the arcade and its customers, are the oldest and smallest police force in Britain. They welcome over four million visitors a year and continue to impose the rules laid down by the original Beadles, so whistling, running, riding a bicycle, or ‘behaving boisterously’ are forbidden. The two lucky people granted special permission to whistle are Sir Paul McCartney and Jayden, a schoolboy who was promised a license to whistle if he achieved a good school report. For more information, please visit: www.burlingtonarcade.com
Experience unmatched British tailoring with unique craftsmanship and highly tuned intensity at the Home of Aston Martin in Manhattan
Aston Martin’s first ultra-luxury flagship location on 450 Park Avenue, in the heart of New York City
Q New York provides an exclusive and immersive entry into the thrilling world of Aston Martin
Offering an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration, the new location brings the very highest levels of the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service
Flagship opening builds on Aston Martin’s long-standing commitment to luxury craft and the growing trend of personalisation
[source: Aston Martin]
New York City, NY – Where Savile Row meets Park Avenue. Aston Martin proudly opens the doors to Q New York, its first ultra-luxury flagship on 450 Park Avenue, in New York City.
The new location brings the highest levels of the iconic British brand’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin to North America for the very first time, providing the most sophisticated luxury specification experience available anywhere in the world.
The first-of-its-kind landmark location forms a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury brand and customer experience strategy, with the commitment to provide the very best possible environment for its most discerning clients to create their own intimately personal Aston Martin.
Conscientiously designed to immerse onlookers into the thrilling world of Aston Martin, visitors on Park Avenue are greeted by a unique window installation of epic proportion, named the ‘Champagne Frame’. Created with one of the largest single panes of glass ever installed into a New York building, the grand window frame looks into the stars – Aston Martin’s most iconic models – which are carefully illuminated by an impressive 2,100 bulb chandelier – spanning 40-metres (131-foot). Meanwhile, the use of mosaic tiles and commanding dining tables helps define the new flagship, bringing the best of British to one of the most prominent streets in the world.
The new location will serve as a showcase and launch venue for Aston Martin’s latest products, from unique special builds to limited-edition models and newcomers to Aston Martin’s breath-taking portfolio. From today, the flagship proudly displays the all-new DB12 in North America for the very first time, in addition to the era-defining Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro hypercar.
Q New York offers an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration. As part of a custom-made appointment, clients will be able to visualise their personalised Aston Martin on a 10.5 metre (35-foot) x 3.5 metre (10-foot) LED wall capable of providing an ultra-high definition, 360-degree view of any Aston Martin in real-life size. Sitting at the intersection between the physical and digital worlds, Aston Martin’s intention is to provide such a realistic configuration that clients feel as though they could open the door to their car.
Use of the most innovative Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology will facilitate a seamless, high-end customer specification service, allowing clients to combine the sensorial touch and feel of physical colour and trim samples with live configuration on screen.
A live video link from Manhattan to Aston Martin’s design studio in Gaydon, UK, enables real-time communication with the brand’s renowned designers and the Q by Aston Martin team, providing the most bespoke and sophisticated commissioning experience available outside of a personal visit to headquarters.
Offering a concierge experience, carefully curated high-end dining and overnight travel experiences will also be available for those seeking to extend and elevate the experience of creating their own Aston Martin.
Q by Aston Martin represents a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury strategy, giving clients the ultimate sense of freedom and expression when customising their cars. Whilst a long-standing part of Aston Martin’s DNA, this bespoke service facilitates the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment.
Recent years have seen significant growth for the Q by Aston Martin division with a record number of Aston Martin units sold with bespoke touches and elements in 2022, representing a 51% year-on-year increase. Notably, the Americas is the fastest growing region for Q by Aston Martin, with 92% year-on-year growth in 2022.
Special and limited-edition models have supported this growth, following the introduction of specific Q by Aston Martin: Collection options. These carefully-selected collections are fully costed and visible on the Aston Martin configurator, acting as a significant gateway to introducing customers to the world of Q by Aston Martin and demonstrating the possibilities of this most intimate of services.
Q by Aston Martin: Commission, the very highest level of the bespoke service, takes customers on an even more exclusive journey that involves a personal collaboration with the Aston Martin design team. This provides an unrivalled opportunity to create a truly bespoke, individual car, with customers known to invest upwards of 30% of the car’s original retail value to add their own mark and achieve a truly bespoke creation.
Located on one of the most prominent corners of Midtown Manhattan, Q New York unites both the handcrafted and high-tech nature of Aston Martin, showcasing the very best of British craftsmanship and engineering against the backdrop of an immersive specification experience, thanks to state state-of-the-art technology.
Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin said: “The opening of our first flagship Q location, in our largest commercial market, is the latest distinct expression of Aston Martin’s shift to an ultra-luxury brand. It demonstrates our ambition to drive global growth and create elevated customer experiences to match our owners’ passion for Aston Martin.
“We recognise the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment and see huge value in investing in our customer experience to create the best specification experiences available anywhere in the world. With a 92% increase in Q by Aston Martin take-up in the Americas last year, this is the perfect time and the perfect place for us to open our very first global flagship location.”
The design principles of the space are built upon quintessentially British architecture, including extensive use of mosaic tiles, chandeliers, beautifully framed grand windows, fireplaces, and mantel pieces, as well as large scaling dining tables.
Ensuring the space reflects the latest design trends befitting of 21st century Manhattan, an extensive level of attention has been paid to adapting materials and furnishings, all of which are underlined with a conscious awareness of sustainable materials and practises, in line with Aston Martin’s Racing. Green. sustainability strategy.
Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin said: “Creating wondrous places, spaces and experiences are important design statements for us. And just as we belong in Formula One as British makers of ultra-luxury high-performance sports cars, Aston Martin belongs in New York City. It’s a place where dreams come true.
“We have created Q New York as a landmark across the Atlantic where our customers can collaborate with our designers to make their own lifelong Aston Martin dreams come true.
“This is our version of creative performance design and precision craft at their finest – with sights and sounds, shapes and forms, and vivid colours and textured materials – all presented using the latest technology to provide customers with the engaging Aston Martin experience that they deserve.”
Q New York is now officially open at 450 Park Avenue, with appointments available to be scheduled by any Aston Martin dealer.
