Ian Flemming's James bond 007

[Busyboy]

I thought it might be interesting to ponder and open up to an audience my question

Ian Flemming allegedly writes that 007 wore a rolex oyster perpetual. Further that it was worn once around his fist as a knuckle duster.

Many assume that his original intentions from literary reference were that of the now explorer 1, (great great grandson anyway)- or because Flemming himself wore a 1016

Most agree that on set of the film, bond was infact handed the famous Submariner on NATO off the wrist of the director/ Mr Flemming, (cannt remember), as wardrobe couldn't go to the budget of a stage rolex.

Either way over the years , 007 has made many watches and brands famous.



The question is. If you were 007.... Or if a 'wis' was to decide on the agents most appropriate watch. What would you pick and why???

[Watchgeek5000]

MTM special ops Rad!
Does it all and detects radiation!

[beshannon]

[Chewbacca]

Breitling emergency.


20

[ferrissteve11]

I always figured Bond would wear a Sea Dweller or DSSD in today's world.

[ernie2]

007 is British, he should have been issued a Bremont

[BallaDaddy]

A ceramic no date submariner of course!


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[Etschell]

[AK797]

A Rochefoucauld seems most fitting, it is the all action sports watch of its time, and made up.

[grantfrost]

Originally Posted by Busyboy

I thought it might be interesting to ponder and open up to an audience my question

Ian Flemming allegedly writes that 007 wore a rolex oyster perpetual. Further that it was worn once around his fist as a knuckle duster.

Many assume that his original intentions from literary reference were that of the now explorer 1, (great great grandson anyway)- or because Flemming himself wore a 1016

Most agree that on set of the film, bond was infact handed the famous Submariner on NATO off the wrist of the director/ Mr Flemming, (cannt remember), as wardrobe couldn't go to the budget of a stage rolex.

Either way over the years , 007 has made many watches and brands famous.



The question is. If you were 007.... Or if a 'wis' was to decide on the agents most appropriate watch. What would you pick and why???

Roger moore wears one as Bond old sub date

[Afghanvet]

Sd4k

[scruffydog79]

SD on NATO strap P_20161105_170249.jpg

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[Loevhagen]

14

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by ernie2

007 is British, he should have been issued a Bremont

Rolex has British roots, and Wilsdorf was a royalist, so that's good enough for MI6

[TitanCi]

116600 of course- 00 in the reference number, refined but ready to used in any situation.



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[Lew Archer]

If Ian Fleming were writing today, I think he'd still choose Rolex, and likely one of the sport models: either one of the dive watches (most likely a Submariner, I'd guess); a GMT; or an Explorer, I or II. Of these sport models, I think Fleming might well still settle on the rugged, understated simplicity of the Explorer I.

Here's the basis for my opinion, which is rooted in Fleming's novels:

Ian Fleming was a groundbreaker in a number of ways, including the use of specific brands, but not for product placement, as in today's films, but to add authenticity and convey character and tell the story. He is, at times, very detailed in his descriptions of characters and their belongings, but always for a purpose: conveying character, telling the story. This is especially true with Fleming's description of the villains. For example, take this excerpt from the first page of the first chapter of the novel, "From Russia With Love", which describes the watch belonging to the character Grant:

"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."

Note that Fleming does not simply specify a particular model. He describes the characteristics of the watch...and then uses that description to set the scene for the unfolding chapter. The specificity of detail reveals the contradiction between appearance and reality. A casual observer of Grant, noting that luxury watch and his other belongings, which Fleming describes as ""the typical membership badges of the rich man's club", might erroneously size up Grant as being merely a wealthy, upper class man...when, in fact, Grant is a KGB assassin, one who is most deadly...and even uncontrollable...during a full moon. Fleming intrigues the reader, by presenting this contradiction between appearance and reality. A psychopath whose killing lust is strongest during a full moon would find the moon phase complication a very practical feature! That's quite different from a wealthy man wearing a status symbol who is amused by horological complications.

In this way, Fleming brings the reader into the world of espionage, that "wilderness of mirrors" where nothing is what it appears to be.

In "Casino Royale", the character Vesper recalls the words of a Secret Service station head describing Bond's character: "He's a dedicated man...he thinks of nothing but the job on hand and, while it's on, he's absolute hell to work for. But he's an expert, and there aren't many about; so you won't be wasting your time. He's a good-looking chap--but don't fall for him. I don't think he's got much heart." Of course, Bond falls for Vesper, and turns out to have a softer centre than some would have thought.

With Bond, Fleming's physical descriptions tend to be less detailed then those of the villains and girls...and usually occur when Bond has a moment to regard himself ruefully in the mirror, or when Bond is observed by another character. For example, Bond's mouth is frequently described as "rather cruel" and there are repeated references to the comma of black hair that continues to fall out of place across his forehead; to his grey-blue eyes; and to a long facial scar. Fleming even tells us, through Vesper, that Bond bears a resemblance to Hoagy Carmichael, though there is something cold and ruthless about him. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (written after the films were being produced), Fleming writes, "James Bond was not a gourmet. In England he lived on grilled soles, oefufs cocotte and cold roast beef with potato salad. But when traveling abroad, generally by himself, meals were a welcome break in the day, something to look forward to, something to break the tension..." Always pragmatic, breakfast is the most important meal of the day to Bond.

He is given to self-indulgence: he is a heavy smoker and has his cigarettes made for him by Morlands of a Turkish blend. And, of course, he drinks. A lot. Not just vodka Martinis. Gin and Tonic, whisky and soda, brandy, wine...and, often, references to brands: Old Grand-dad for bourbon (usually Doubles); Jack Daniels (mistakenly described by Fleming as a bourbon); Veuve Clicquot champagne and Taittinger champagne (Bond tells Vesper the Taittinger Brut Blanc de Blanc 1943 is "not a well-known brand, but it is probably the finest champagne in the world". At that, Fleming tells us, Bond "grinned at the touch of pretension in his remark"). And, of course, there is the famous recipe in "Casino Royale" for the drink Bond would name after Vesper: "three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon-peel."

"Moonraker" reveals Bond's private, day to day life: a man with a fairly easy Civil Service job, who had rather cold affairs with one of three like-minded married women, played cards and golf with friends, often for high stakes, and earned 1,500 pounds per year, with a thousand a year tax free. On a job, he could spend as much as he liked, so he lived quite well on his 2,000 pound a year net. He lived in "a small but comfortable flat off the Kings Road", and was cared for by a loyal Scottish housekeeper named May.

And, of course, Bond loves cars, and loves driving them. "Moonraker", the third novel, begins with reference to his 1930 4 1/2 Litre Bentley Coupe, supercharged, which could do "a hundred when he wanted to." That car would be destroyed but replaced by Bond, using his winnings at cards, with a 1953 Mark VI Bentley with an open touring body, battleship grey like its predecessor. Bond's car, described in "Live and Let Die", the second novel, as "The grey Bentley convertible, the 1933 4 1/2 litre with the Amherst-Villiers supercharger." In the first novel, "Casino Royale", we learn this:

"Bond's car was his only personal hobby. One of the last of the 4 1/2 Litre Bentleys with the supercharger by Amherst Villiers, he had bought it almost new in 1933 and had kept it in careful storage through the war. It was still serviced every year and, in London, a former Bentley mechanic, who worked in a garage near Bond's Chelsea flat, tended it with jealous care. Bond drove it hard and well and with an almost sensual pleasure. It was a battleship-grey convertible coupe, which really did convert, and it was capable of touring at ninety with thirty miles an hour in reserve."

Bond's taste in clothes is conservative. His suits are typically navy blue serge, single breasted, with white shirt and a silk knit tie in black, suitable for his senior "Civil Service" job. In "Moonraker", he wears an old houndstooth suit when in the countryside. Consistent with the period in which the novels are written, Bond's suits are tailor made. Fleming, it might be noted, also wore bespoke suits, but not Savile Row. He used a less expensive tailor located "off Savile Row". Bond's suits would be conservative, but well made, to give good and lasting service. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", he acquires two suits specifically for his cover as Sir Hillary Bray. These are a departure in style, for Bond will be playing in his undercover role, an emissary from the College of Arms, an expert in heraldry. Bond describes his Sir Hilary Bray suits to his secretary, Mary Goodnight as "...two new suits with cuffs and double vents at the back and four buttons down the front. Also a a gold watch and chain...". While traveling under cover to Blofeld's lair, Bond adds a bowler and rolled umbrella, but feels faintly ridiculous wearing these trappings of the upper class. Hardly John Steed, of the Avengers! Bond is comfort oriented: preferring "black moccasin shoes" (Fleming notes Bond "abhors" laces) and suits of tropical worsted wool. However, Bond's shoes sometimes have been customized for his line of work--steel toe caps ("Live and Let Die") and a knife concealed in the heel ("On Her Majesty's Secret Service"). Those features proves useful to Bond in both stories.

The Bond character is fundamentally pragmatic when it comes to his choices of belongings. Form follows function. Unlike the Bond of the films, the literary 007 doesn't necessarily have expensive taste: his lighter is a "black oxidized Ronson" and his cigarette case is a "flat, light gun-metal box"--not Sterling Silver or some precious metal) and holds fifty of those Morland cigarettes with the triple gold band. Bond's employer often provides him with the finer things, but always with a hidden purpose: In "From Russia With Love" (both novel and film), Bond carries a "smart-looking" attache case, made by Swaine and Adeney, but provided by Q branch with extras, including ammunition, throwing knives, a death pill (for use if captured by the enemy and facing torture) and a Palmolive shaving cream tube which conceals a silencer for the .25 Beretta automatic that Bond carried in the first few novels.

Now, as to the watch...

In "Dr. No", Bond wakes to discover a centipede (in the film, a tarantula) crawling on him. Fleming sets the stage for this moment: "The next thing Bond knew was that its was three o'clock in the morning. He knew it was three o'clock because the luminous dial of his watch was close to his face." The watch, though its brand is unspecified, was a pragmatic choice, thanks to its luminous dial, enhancing its utility, particularly for a man like Bond, who earned "danger money." In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", Bond prepares to escape from his undercover assignment at Blofeld's Swiss headquarters. Fleming writes, "Bond surveyed his weapons. They were only his hands and feet, his Gillette razor and his wrist watch, a heavy Rolex Oyster Perpetual on an expanding metal bracelet. Used properly, these could be turned into most effective knuckle dusters." The Rolex was desirable as an improvised weapon due to its weight and rugged construction. He used the watch to knock out an adversary, but the Rolex "disintegrated" on the jaw of the enemy. Later, Bond contemplates a replacement after looking towards his left wrist and being reminded that he "no longer had a watch." Bond calculated that the Secret Service would pay for a new one ("THAT he would certainly be allowed on expenses"). But what to buy? Bond thinks, "Another Rolex? Probably. They were on the heavy side, but they worked. And at least you could see the time in the dark with those big phosphorous numerals." Bond needs a watch prior to the final assault on Blofeld's hideout, but the shops are still closed for the holidays, so Bond has to "blarney" one out of Q branch. He learned his lesson. Wear the firm's property, when on the firm's time! Note, though, that Bond is not a TRF kind of guy--not a man with multiple watches, not a watch enthusiast. He is a practical end user and owns one very good watch, which may be heavy but is totally reliable, totally legible, even in the dark.

Were Fleming writing today, he would select a watch that fit that bill. A solid, reliable performer, even under adverse conditions. Bond, unlike Grant, would not choose a watch with extensive complications. He's not a gadget lover. He would go for a totally reliable, high quality, handsome but rugged watch. Other brands might be acceptable, but Rolex retains the same standing today that it had when Fleming wrote the novels. So, I'd guess Fleming today would still opt for Rolex. It's only drawback would be the price. However, Bond, who gambled frequently as a way to supplement his income, could afford to indulge himself on a few select things.

But which Rolex? Today, I think, Fleming would gravitate towards a model with a stainless steel case and bracelet, for its ruggedness, and would look towards the Submariner/Sea-Dweller, Explorer (I or II) and GMT. Each of these models offers the durability, reliability and potentially useful complications (rotable bezel on the dive watches, and GMT hands on the Explorer II and GMT). What would serve the character? Given Bond's frequent international travel, he'd like the GMT capability of the GMT Master or Explorer II, and, given the frequency of his underwater missions, he'd appreciate the utility of a dive watch. Of the Rolex dive watches, I think Bond (through author Fleming) would choose the Submariner, and might forego the date, for a slight savings (Bond's personal funds aren't unlimited). I think Bond would avoid the current Sea-Dweller and Sea-Dweller Deepsea, both due to their increased weight (Fleming notes weight as one of Rolex's negatives, comfort wise), and, in the case of the Deepsea, bulk. I don't see Bond paying a premium for the additional depth rating of the Sea-Dweller 4000 and the Sea-Dweller Deepsea, which Bond would not need (his underwater missions were easily within the capabilities of the Submariner). And yes, I think Fleming would still find the current Explorer I to be an attractive pick for Bond. More affordable then other models, it offers a low key appearance that is versatile no matter the attire, and, most important, the Explorer I still offers the things the literary Bond generally looked for in his personal belongings: quality, reliability, durability and utility. It also offers a key quality Bond values in a watch: legibility.

After all, when a centipede is crawling up your leg in the middle of the night, you want to know what time it is!

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Lew Archer

... I think he'd avoid the current Sea-Dweller and Sea-Dweller Deepsea, both due to their increased weight (Fleming notes weight as one of Rolex's negatives, comfort wise), and I don't see Bond paying a premium for the additional depth rating, which Bond would not need. I think Fleming would still find the current Explorer I to be a logical pick. More affordable then other models, it offers a low key appearance, versatile no matter the attire, and, most important, the things the literary Bond generally looks for in his personal belongings: quality, reliability, durability and utility. It also offers a key quality Bond values in a watch: legibility.

Terrific post. Reading your criteria, though, a Tudor Ranger might be a better option. It’s rated 50m deeper than the Explorer, a flat back makes it very comfortable, the lume is arguably better, the blacked-out rehaut makes it more stealthy, as does its 99% brushed steel. More space between springbar and case, plus lug holes, makes it easier to improvise/change straps in a hurry, and its much lower price would appeal to the MI6 number crunchers. And it’s named after a Royal House!



ok…I’ll get my coat.

[Lew Archer]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Terrific post. Reading your criteria, though, a Tudor Ranger might be a better option. It’s rated 50m deeper than the Explorer, a flat back makes it very comfortable, the lume is arguably better, the blacked-out rehaut makes it more stealthy, as does its 99% brushed steel. More space between springbar and case, plus lug holes, makes it easier to improvise/change straps in a hurry, and its much lower price would appeal to the MI6 number crunchers. And it’s named after a Royal House!



ok…I’ll get my coat.

Yes, indeed. Great point.


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[cop414]

Love your post Lew, very informative.

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Lew Archer

Yes, indeed. Great point.


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Thanks

[Lew Archer]

Originally Posted by cop414

Love your post Lew, very informative.

I'm so glad, thank you!


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[Lew Archer]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Thanks

Cheers, indeed!


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[locutus49]

Great and very accurate post. The excellent biography of Ian Fleming further contextualizes the milieu in which the fictional Bond operated.

Originally Posted by Lew Archer

If Ian Fleming were writing today, I think he'd still choose Rolex, and likely one of the sport models: either one of the dive watches (most likely a Submariner, I'd guess); a GMT; or an Explorer, I or II. Of these sport models, I think Fleming might well still settle on the rugged, understated simplicity of the Explorer I.

Here's the basis for my opinion, which is rooted in Fleming's novels:

Ian Fleming was a groundbreaker in a number of ways, including the use of specific brands, but not for product placement, as in today's films, but to add authenticity and convey character and tell the story. He is, at times, very detailed in his descriptions of characters and their belongings, but always for a purpose: conveying character, telling the story. This is especially true with Fleming's description of the villains. For example, take this excerpt from the first page of the first chapter of the novel, "From Russia With Love", which describes the watch belonging to the character Grant:

"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."

Note that Fleming does not simply specify a particular model. He describes the characteristics of the watch...and then uses that description to set the scene for the unfolding chapter. The specificity of detail reveals the contradiction between appearance and reality. A casual observer of Grant, noting that luxury watch and his other belongings, which Fleming describes as ""the typical membership badges of the rich man's club", might erroneously size up Grant as being merely a wealthy, upper class man...when, in fact, Grant is a KGB assassin, one who is most deadly...and even uncontrollable...during a full moon. Fleming intrigues the reader, by presenting this contradiction between appearance and reality. A psychopath whose killing lust is strongest during a full moon would find the moon phase complication a very practical feature! That's quite different from a wealthy man wearing a status symbol who is amused by horological complications.

In this way, Fleming brings the reader into the world of espionage, that "wilderness of mirrors" where nothing is what it appears to be.

In "Casino Royale", the character Vesper recalls the words of a Secret Service station head describing Bond's character: "He's a dedicated man...he thinks of nothing but the job on hand and, while it's on, he's absolute hell to work for. But he's an expert, and there aren't many about; so you won't be wasting your time. He's a good-looking chap--but don't fall for him. I don't think he's got much heart." Of course, Bond falls for Vesper, and turns out to have a softer centre than some would have thought.

With Bond, Fleming's physical descriptions tend to be less detailed then those of the villains and girls...and usually occur when Bond has a moment to regard himself ruefully in the mirror, or when Bond is observed by another character. For example, Bond's mouth is frequently described as "rather cruel" and there are repeated references to the comma of black hair that continues to fall out of place across his forehead; to his grey-blue eyes; and to a long facial scar. Fleming even tells us, through Vesper, that Bond bears a resemblance to Hoagy Carmichael, though there is something cold and ruthless about him. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (written after the films were being produced), Fleming writes, "James Bond was not a gourmet. In England he lived on grilled soles, oefufs cocotte and cold roast beef with potato salad. But when traveling abroad, generally by himself, meals were a welcome break in the day, something to look forward to, something to break the tension..." Always pragmatic, breakfast is the most important meal of the day to Bond.

He is given to self-indulgence: he is a heavy smoker and has his cigarettes made for him by Morlands of a Turkish blend. And, of course, he drinks. A lot. Not just vodka Martinis. Gin and Tonic, whisky and soda, brandy, wine...and, often, references to brands: Old Grand-dad for bourbon (usually Doubles); Jack Daniels (mistakenly described by Fleming as a bourbon); Veuve Clicquot champagne and Taittinger champagne (Bond tells Vesper the Taittinger Brut Blanc de Blanc 1943 is "not a well-known brand, but it is probably the finest champagne in the world". At that, Fleming tells us, Bond "grinned at the touch of pretension in his remark"). And, of course, there is the famous recipe in "Casino Royale" for the drink Bond would name after Vesper: "three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon-peel."

"Moonraker" reveals Bond's private, day to day life: a man with a fairly easy Civil Service job, who had rather cold affairs with one of three like-minded married women, played cards and golf with friends, often for high stakes, and earned 1,500 pounds per year, with a thousand a year tax free. On a job, he could spend as much as he liked, so he lived quite well on his 2,000 pound a year net. He lived in "a small but comfortable flat off the Kings Road", and was cared for by a loyal Scottish housekeeper named May.

And, of course, Bond loves cars, and loves driving them. "Moonraker", the third novel, begins with reference to his 1930 4 1/2 Litre Bentley Coupe, supercharged, which could do "a hundred when he wanted to." That car would be destroyed but replaced by Bond, using his winnings at cards, with a 1953 Mark VI Bentley with an open touring body, battleship grey like its predecessor. Bond's car, described in "Live and Let Die", the second novel, as "The grey Bentley convertible, the 1933 4 1/2 litre with the Amherst-Villiers supercharger." In the first novel, "Casino Royale", we learn this:

"Bond's car was his only personal hobby. One of the last of the 4 1/2 Litre Bentleys with the supercharger by Amherst Villiers, he had bought it almost new in 1933 and had kept it in careful storage through the war. It was still serviced every year and, in London, a former Bentley mechanic, who worked in a garage near Bond's Chelsea flat, tended it with jealous care. Bond drove it hard and well and with an almost sensual pleasure. It was a battleship-grey convertible coupe, which really did convert, and it was capable of touring at ninety with thirty miles an hour in reserve."

Bond's taste in clothes is conservative. His suits are typically navy blue serge, single breasted, with white shirt and a silk knit tie in black, suitable for his senior "Civil Service" job. In "Moonraker", he wears an old houndstooth suit when in the countryside. Consistent with the period in which the novels are written, Bond's suits are tailor made. Fleming, it might be noted, also wore bespoke suits, but not Savile Row. He used a less expensive tailor located "off Savile Row". Bond's suits would be conservative, but well made, to give good and lasting service. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", he acquires two suits specifically for his cover as Sir Hillary Bray. These are a departure in style, for Bond will be playing in his undercover role, an emissary from the College of Arms, an expert in heraldry. Bond describes his Sir Hilary Bray suits to his secretary, Mary Goodnight as "...two new suits with cuffs and double vents at the back and four buttons down the front. Also a a gold watch and chain...". While traveling under cover to Blofeld's lair, Bond adds a bowler and rolled umbrella, but feels faintly ridiculous wearing these trappings of the upper class. Hardly John Steed, of the Avengers! Bond is comfort oriented: preferring "black moccasin shoes" (Fleming notes Bond "abhors" laces) and suits of tropical worsted wool. However, Bond's shoes sometimes have been customized for his line of work--steel toe caps ("Live and Let Die") and a knife concealed in the heel ("On Her Majesty's Secret Service"). Those features proves useful to Bond in both stories.

The Bond character is fundamentally pragmatic when it comes to his choices of belongings. Form follows function. Unlike the Bond of the films, the literary 007 doesn't necessarily have expensive taste: his lighter is a "black oxidized Ronson" and his cigarette case is a "flat, light gun-metal box"--not Sterling Silver or some precious metal) and holds fifty of those Morland cigarettes with the triple gold band. Bond's employer often provides him with the finer things, but always with a hidden purpose: In "From Russia With Love" (both novel and film), Bond carries a "smart-looking" attache case, made by Swaine and Adeney, but provided by Q branch with extras, including ammunition, throwing knives, a death pill (for use if captured by the enemy and facing torture) and a Palmolive shaving cream tube which conceals a silencer for the .25 Beretta automatic that Bond carried in the first few novels.

Now, as to the watch...

In "Dr. No", Bond wakes to discover a centipede (in the film, a tarantula) crawling on him. Fleming sets the stage for this moment: "The next thing Bond knew was that its was three o'clock in the morning. He knew it was three o'clock because the luminous dial of his watch was close to his face." The watch, though its brand is unspecified, was a pragmatic choice, thanks to its luminous dial, enhancing its utility, particularly for a man like Bond, who earned "danger money." In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", Bond prepares to escape from his undercover assignment at Blofeld's Swiss headquarters. Fleming writes, "Bond surveyed his weapons. They were only his hands and feet, his Gillette razor and his wrist watch, a heavy Rolex Oyster Perpetual on an expanding metal bracelet. Used properly, these could be turned into most effective knuckle dusters." The Rolex was desirable as an improvised weapon due to its weight and rugged construction. He used the watch to knock out an adversary, but the Rolex "disintegrated" on the jaw of the enemy. Later, Bond contemplates a replacement after looking towards his left wrist and being reminded that he "no longer had a watch." Bond calculated that the Secret Service would pay for a new one ("THAT he would certainly be allowed on expenses"). But what to buy? Bond thinks, "Another Rolex? Probably. They were on the heavy side, but they worked. And at least you could see the time in the dark with those big phosphorous numerals." Bond needs a watch prior to the final assault on Blofeld's hideout, but the shops are still closed for the holidays, so Bond has to "blarney" one out of Q branch. He learned his lesson. Wear the firm's property, when on the firm's time! Note, though, that Bond is not a TRF kind of guy--not a man with multiple watches, not a watch enthusiast. He is a practical end user and owns one very good watch, which may be heavy but is totally reliable, totally legible, even in the dark.

Were Fleming writing today, he would select a watch that fit that bill. A solid, reliable performer, even under adverse conditions. Bond, unlike Grant, would not choose a watch with extensive complications. He's not a gadget lover. He would go for a totally reliable, high quality, handsome but rugged watch. Other brands might be acceptable, but Rolex retains the same standing today that it had when Fleming wrote the novels. So, I'd guess Fleming today would still opt for Rolex. It's only drawback would be the price. However, Bond, who gambled frequently as a way to supplement his income, could afford to indulge himself on a few select things.

But which Rolex? Today, I think, Fleming would gravitate towards a model with a stainless steel case and bracelet, for its ruggedness, and would look towards the Submariner/Sea-Dweller, Explorer (I or II) and GMT. Each of these models offers the durability, reliability and potentially useful complications (rotable bezel on the dive watches, and GMT hands on the Explorer II and GMT). What would serve the character? Given Bond's frequent international travel, he'd like the GMT capability of the GMT Master or Explorer II, and, given the frequency of his underwater missions, he'd appreciate the utility of a dive watch. Of the Rolex dive watches, I think Bond (through author Fleming) would choose the Submariner, and might forego the date, for a slight savings (Bond's personal funds aren't unlimited). I think Bond would avoid the current Sea-Dweller and Sea-Dweller Deepsea, both due to their increased weight (Fleming notes weight as one of Rolex's negatives, comfort wise), and, in the case of the Deepsea, bulk. I don't see Bond paying a premium for the additional depth rating of the Sea-Dweller 4000 and the Sea-Dweller Deepsea, which Bond would not need (his underwater missions were easily within the capabilities of the Submariner). And yes, I think Fleming would still find the current Explorer I to be an attractive pick for Bond. More affordable then other models, it offers a low key appearance that is versatile no matter the attire, and, most important, the Explorer I still offers the things the literary Bond generally looked for in his personal belongings: quality, reliability, durability and utility. It also offers a key quality Bond values in a watch: legibility.

After all, when a centipede is crawling up your leg in the middle of the night, you want to know what time it is!

[Lol-x]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

....

ok…I’ll get my coat.

Does that mean you're off to get the Ranger???

[Lew Archer]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

Terrific post. Reading your criteria, though, a Tudor Ranger might be a better option. It’s rated 50m deeper than the Explorer, a flat back makes it very comfortable, the lume is arguably better, the blacked-out rehaut makes it more stealthy, as does its 99% brushed steel. More space between springbar and case, plus lug holes, makes it easier to improvise/change straps in a hurry, and its much lower price would appeal to the MI6 number crunchers. And it’s named after a Royal House!



ok…I’ll get my coat.

Come to think of it, the Tudor Pelagos would appeal to Fleming. All the virtues of a rugged dive watch, but lighter in weight, due to the titanium case. Of course, that might compromise its knuckle duster utility!

[Lew Archer]

Originally Posted by locutus49

Great and very accurate post. The excellent biography of Ian Fleming further contextualizes the milieu in which the fictional Bond operated.

Thank you! I must read that biography.


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[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Lol-x

Does that mean you're off to get the Ranger???

Got it two years ago

[cornerstore]

Wow what a great posting

Originally Posted by Lew Archer

If Ian Fleming were writing today, I think he'd still choose Rolex, and likely one of the sport models: either one of the dive watches (most likely a Submariner, I'd guess); a GMT; or an Explorer, I or II. Of these sport models, I think Fleming might well still settle on the rugged, understated simplicity of the Explorer I.

Here's the basis for my opinion, which is rooted in Fleming's novels:

Ian Fleming was a groundbreaker in a number of ways, including the use of specific brands, but not for product placement, as in today's films, but to add authenticity and convey character and tell the story. He is, at times, very detailed in his descriptions of characters and their belongings, but always for a purpose: conveying character, telling the story. This is especially true with Fleming's description of the villains. For example, take this excerpt from the first page of the first chapter of the novel, "From Russia With Love", which describes the watch belonging to the character Grant:

"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."

Note that Fleming does not simply specify a particular model. He describes the characteristics of the watch...and then uses that description to set the scene for the unfolding chapter. The specificity of detail reveals the contradiction between appearance and reality. A casual observer of Grant, noting that luxury watch and his other belongings, which Fleming describes as ""the typical membership badges of the rich man's club", might erroneously size up Grant as being merely a wealthy, upper class man...when, in fact, Grant is a KGB assassin, one who is most deadly...and even uncontrollable...during a full moon. Fleming intrigues the reader, by presenting this contradiction between appearance and reality. A psychopath whose killing lust is strongest during a full moon would find the moon phase complication a very practical feature! That's quite different from a wealthy man wearing a status symbol who is amused by horological complications.

In this way, Fleming brings the reader into the world of espionage, that "wilderness of mirrors" where nothing is what it appears to be.

In "Casino Royale", the character Vesper recalls the words of a Secret Service station head describing Bond's character: "He's a dedicated man...he thinks of nothing but the job on hand and, while it's on, he's absolute hell to work for. But he's an expert, and there aren't many about; so you won't be wasting your time. He's a good-looking chap--but don't fall for him. I don't think he's got much heart." Of course, Bond falls for Vesper, and turns out to have a softer centre than some would have thought.

With Bond, Fleming's physical descriptions tend to be less detailed then those of the villains and girls...and usually occur when Bond has a moment to regard himself ruefully in the mirror, or when Bond is observed by another character. For example, Bond's mouth is frequently described as "rather cruel" and there are repeated references to the comma of black hair that continues to fall out of place across his forehead; to his grey-blue eyes; and to a long facial scar. Fleming even tells us, through Vesper, that Bond bears a resemblance to Hoagy Carmichael, though there is something cold and ruthless about him. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (written after the films were being produced), Fleming writes, "James Bond was not a gourmet. In England he lived on grilled soles, oefufs cocotte and cold roast beef with potato salad. But when traveling abroad, generally by himself, meals were a welcome break in the day, something to look forward to, something to break the tension..." Always pragmatic, breakfast is the most important meal of the day to Bond.

He is given to self-indulgence: he is a heavy smoker and has his cigarettes made for him by Morlands of a Turkish blend. And, of course, he drinks. A lot. Not just vodka Martinis. Gin and Tonic, whisky and soda, brandy, wine...and, often, references to brands: Old Grand-dad for bourbon (usually Doubles); Jack Daniels (mistakenly described by Fleming as a bourbon); Veuve Clicquot champagne and Taittinger champagne (Bond tells Vesper the Taittinger Brut Blanc de Blanc 1943 is "not a well-known brand, but it is probably the finest champagne in the world". At that, Fleming tells us, Bond "grinned at the touch of pretension in his remark"). And, of course, there is the famous recipe in "Casino Royale" for the drink Bond would name after Vesper: "three measures of Gordon's, one of vodka, half a measure of Kina Lillet. Shake it very well until it's ice-cold, then add a large thin slice of lemon-peel."

"Moonraker" reveals Bond's private, day to day life: a man with a fairly easy Civil Service job, who had rather cold affairs with one of three like-minded married women, played cards and golf with friends, often for high stakes, and earned 1,500 pounds per year, with a thousand a year tax free. On a job, he could spend as much as he liked, so he lived quite well on his 2,000 pound a year net. He lived in "a small but comfortable flat off the Kings Road", and was cared for by a loyal Scottish housekeeper named May.

And, of course, Bond loves cars, and loves driving them. "Moonraker", the third novel, begins with reference to his 1930 4 1/2 Litre Bentley Coupe, supercharged, which could do "a hundred when he wanted to." That car would be destroyed but replaced by Bond, using his winnings at cards, with a 1953 Mark VI Bentley with an open touring body, battleship grey like its predecessor. Bond's car, described in "Live and Let Die", the second novel, as "The grey Bentley convertible, the 1933 4 1/2 litre with the Amherst-Villiers supercharger." In the first novel, "Casino Royale", we learn this:

"Bond's car was his only personal hobby. One of the last of the 4 1/2 Litre Bentleys with the supercharger by Amherst Villiers, he had bought it almost new in 1933 and had kept it in careful storage through the war. It was still serviced every year and, in London, a former Bentley mechanic, who worked in a garage near Bond's Chelsea flat, tended it with jealous care. Bond drove it hard and well and with an almost sensual pleasure. It was a battleship-grey convertible coupe, which really did convert, and it was capable of touring at ninety with thirty miles an hour in reserve."

Bond's taste in clothes is conservative. His suits are typically navy blue serge, single breasted, with white shirt and a silk knit tie in black, suitable for his senior "Civil Service" job. In "Moonraker", he wears an old houndstooth suit when in the countryside. Consistent with the period in which the novels are written, Bond's suits are tailor made. Fleming, it might be noted, also wore bespoke suits, but not Savile Row. He used a less expensive tailor located "off Savile Row". Bond's suits would be conservative, but well made, to give good and lasting service. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", he acquires two suits specifically for his cover as Sir Hillary Bray. These are a departure in style, for Bond will be playing in his undercover role, an emissary from the College of Arms, an expert in heraldry. Bond describes his Sir Hilary Bray suits to his secretary, Mary Goodnight as "...two new suits with cuffs and double vents at the back and four buttons down the front. Also a a gold watch and chain...". While traveling under cover to Blofeld's lair, Bond adds a bowler and rolled umbrella, but feels faintly ridiculous wearing these trappings of the upper class. Hardly John Steed, of the Avengers! Bond is comfort oriented: preferring "black moccasin shoes" (Fleming notes Bond "abhors" laces) and suits of tropical worsted wool. However, Bond's shoes sometimes have been customized for his line of work--steel toe caps ("Live and Let Die") and a knife concealed in the heel ("On Her Majesty's Secret Service"). Those features proves useful to Bond in both stories.

The Bond character is fundamentally pragmatic when it comes to his choices of belongings. Form follows function. Unlike the Bond of the films, the literary 007 doesn't necessarily have expensive taste: his lighter is a "black oxidized Ronson" and his cigarette case is a "flat, light gun-metal box"--not Sterling Silver or some precious metal) and holds fifty of those Morland cigarettes with the triple gold band. Bond's employer often provides him with the finer things, but always with a hidden purpose: In "From Russia With Love" (both novel and film), Bond carries a "smart-looking" attache case, made by Swaine and Adeney, but provided by Q branch with extras, including ammunition, throwing knives, a death pill (for use if captured by the enemy and facing torture) and a Palmolive shaving cream tube which conceals a silencer for the .25 Beretta automatic that Bond carried in the first few novels.

Now, as to the watch...

In "Dr. No", Bond wakes to discover a centipede (in the film, a tarantula) crawling on him. Fleming sets the stage for this moment: "The next thing Bond knew was that its was three o'clock in the morning. He knew it was three o'clock because the luminous dial of his watch was close to his face." The watch, though its brand is unspecified, was a pragmatic choice, thanks to its luminous dial, enhancing its utility, particularly for a man like Bond, who earned "danger money." In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service", Bond prepares to escape from his undercover assignment at Blofeld's Swiss headquarters. Fleming writes, "Bond surveyed his weapons. They were only his hands and feet, his Gillette razor and his wrist watch, a heavy Rolex Oyster Perpetual on an expanding metal bracelet. Used properly, these could be turned into most effective knuckle dusters." The Rolex was desirable as an improvised weapon due to its weight and rugged construction. He used the watch to knock out an adversary, but the Rolex "disintegrated" on the jaw of the enemy. Later, Bond contemplates a replacement after looking towards his left wrist and being reminded that he "no longer had a watch." Bond calculated that the Secret Service would pay for a new one ("THAT he would certainly be allowed on expenses"). But what to buy? Bond thinks, "Another Rolex? Probably. They were on the heavy side, but they worked. And at least you could see the time in the dark with those big phosphorous numerals." Bond needs a watch prior to the final assault on Blofeld's hideout, but the shops are still closed for the holidays, so Bond has to "blarney" one out of Q branch. He learned his lesson. Wear the firm's property, when on the firm's time! Note, though, that Bond is not a TRF kind of guy--not a man with multiple watches, not a watch enthusiast. He is a practical end user and owns one very good watch, which may be heavy but is totally reliable, totally legible, even in the dark.

Were Fleming writing today, he would select a watch that fit that bill. A solid, reliable performer, even under adverse conditions. Bond, unlike Grant, would not choose a watch with extensive complications. He's not a gadget lover. He would go for a totally reliable, high quality, handsome but rugged watch. Other brands might be acceptable, but Rolex retains the same standing today that it had when Fleming wrote the novels. So, I'd guess Fleming today would still opt for Rolex. It's only drawback would be the price. However, Bond, who gambled frequently as a way to supplement his income, could afford to indulge himself on a few select things.

But which Rolex? Today, I think, Fleming would gravitate towards a model with a stainless steel case and bracelet, for its ruggedness, and would look towards the Submariner/Sea-Dweller, Explorer (I or II) and GMT. Each of these models offers the durability, reliability and potentially useful complications (rotable bezel on the dive watches, and GMT hands on the Explorer II and GMT). What would serve the character? Given Bond's frequent international travel, he'd like the GMT capability of the GMT Master or Explorer II, and, given the frequency of his underwater missions, he'd appreciate the utility of a dive watch. Of the Rolex dive watches, I think Bond (through author Fleming) would choose the Submariner, and might forego the date, for a slight savings (Bond's personal funds aren't unlimited). I think Bond would avoid the current Sea-Dweller and Sea-Dweller Deepsea, both due to their increased weight (Fleming notes weight as one of Rolex's negatives, comfort wise), and, in the case of the Deepsea, bulk. I don't see Bond paying a premium for the additional depth rating of the Sea-Dweller 4000 and the Sea-Dweller Deepsea, which Bond would not need (his underwater missions were easily within the capabilities of the Submariner). And yes, I think Fleming would still find the current Explorer I to be an attractive pick for Bond. More affordable then other models, it offers a low key appearance that is versatile no matter the attire, and, most important, the Explorer I still offers the things the literary Bond generally looked for in his personal belongings: quality, reliability, durability and utility. It also offers a key quality Bond values in a watch: legibility.

After all, when a centipede is crawling up your leg in the middle of the night, you want to know what time it is!

[Brisman]

What a great post Lew, thanks, I really enjoyed it.

[Tomas Eriksson]

If I would to choose for him, Patek Nautlius 5711.