New York | United States
One of this year’s most anticipated sales is The Exceptional Sale presented by Christie’s. This year’s instalment offers some of the most exciting lots that the market has seen in many years. As forming part of the sale, one of the highlights is the auction of Daniel Craig’s Aston Martin.
The magnificent 2014 Centenary Vanquish numbered 007 will hit the auction block on 20 April 2018 in New York City. What makes this sale truly unique is that all proceeds of the sale will benefit The Opportunity Network. This nonprofit, also known as OppNet, is an organization that works together with students from historically and systemically under-represented communities. They aim to develop skills, passions and knowledge to achieve both their college as well as their career goals.
The James Bond actor, who also serves on OppNet’s board, has worked extensively with the Chief Creative Director of Aston Martin to customize his limited-edition car. The left-hand drive car is estimated to fetch between US$400 000 and US$600 000 and is street ready.
Daniel Craig’s Aston Martin was first on display to the public at Christie’s Los Angeles gallery from 27 February to 3 March 2018. The super-car is currently on preview before its auction date in New York. The winning bidder will furthermore enjoy the unique opportunity to visit the Aston Martin Headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire. There the new owner will meet with Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Director for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the production facilities.
In order to celebrate Aston Martin’s 100th anniversary, the firm created just 100 examples of the Centenary Vanquish. Each stunning vehicle has been hand-built and designed at Aston Martin’s headquarters in Warwickshire in the United Kingdom. The car sports a 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine and has an automatic gearbox. Furthermore, the super-car can reach top speeds of up to 183 mph.
The car has been made from a lightweight bonded aluminium structure that has been combined with a motor-sport inspired carbon fibre exterior. Each vehicle’s interior has been handcrafted and contains the finest luxury leathers, aluminium and carbon fibre. Daniel Craig’s Aston Martin boasts a bespoke extetrior and interior that was directed by Marek Reichman himself after his discussion with Daniel Craig at the Aston Martin design studio. The unique midnight blue exterior and deep blue, hand-stitched, luxury leather interior found its inspiration due to Daniel’s preference of denim and dark colours. Becky MacGuire, the Director of The Exceptional Sale stated:
“We are thrilled at the chance to support Daniel Craig’s generosity to The Opportunity Network with the offer of this unique and gorgeous sports car. With its pristine condition, luxury materials, exceptional craftsmanship and impeccable provenance the Aston Martin fits perfectly into Christie’s masterpiece sale. It’s like a 21st century sculpture that comes equipped with an incredibly fine engine.”
Commenting on the same Daniel Craig added “This Aston Martin Vanquish is a tour-de-force of automobile engineering and a distinct pleasure to drive. While I will miss it, I am keen to further the very important work of The Opportunity Network with its sale.”