James Bond Watches Blog

The original James Bond buzz-saw gadget watch designed and created by Syd Cain for "Live and Let Die" will be up for auction by Christie's, Geneva, on November 14, 2011

The original Rolex 5513 Submariner watch with buzz-saw modifications sold at auction yesterday for CHF 219,000 ($242,655) through Christie’s, Geneva.

Actor Roger Moore wore this exact Rolex wristwatch as James Bond in the 1973 Eon Productions 007 film, Live and Let Die.

Pre-sale estimates anticipated between $221,603 and $443,206 as its final selling price. This was Christie’s sale 1383, lot 182.

By comparison, a Omega 2900.50.91 Seamaster Planet Ocean worn by Daniel Craig in his inaugural James Bond movie, Casino Royale (Eon Productions, 2006), sold for CHF 250,250 (which would convert to approximately $275,409 at the prevailing exchange rate today).

This same lot 182 Rolex 5513 Submariner, serial (case) number 2683776, previously sold for $37,560 through Christie’s in February of 2001. Bracelet markings notwithstanding, according to Martin Skeet and Nick Urul, Vintage Rolex Sports Models, the Live and Let Die buzz-saw Rolex manufacture date (before Syd Cain modifications for the movie, of course) is more likely sometime in 1969 or 1970.

Image courtesy Christie’s

Daniel Craig as James Bond, wearing an Omega 2201.50 Planet Ocean watch for Quantum of Solace, Eon Productions, 2008

Two of my most reliable sources have independently confirmed that Omega Watches is once again the official product placement partner for James Bond watches on the new 007 film, Skyfall (formerly known as “Bond 23″).

There’s even a “good possibility” that Daniel Craig will wear at least two different models as James Bond in Skyfall. Recall that Casino Royale featured two Omega watch models. And I believe that decision wasn’t actually made until well-into production.

In one case regarding Bond 23, I was told to anticipate seeing it featured in some “creative” way. But, before you ask: A James Bond gadget watch is “unlikely.” It also doesn’t look like Skyfall will finally feature James Bond using his watch as a knuckle duster onscreen.

As you may have noticed in watching the Eon Productions press conference yesterday, a question regarding the use of anything from Ian Fleming in Skyfall was met with a bit too quick, a bit to firm a “no.”

But don’t let that stop you from writing letters in favor of a knuckle duster or saw-tooth-bezel gadget, if you’re so inclined.

The only other specifics I have beyond this are continue reading…

The buzz-saw gadget watch from Live & Let Die goes up for auction once again through Christie’s, one month from today.

James Bond’s specially adapted Rolex wristwatch converted from a stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner wristwatch

Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual, 660ft = 200m, Submariner, ref. 5513, case no. 2,683,776, manufactured in 1972 and then converted

 

The original James Bond buzz-saw gadget watch designed and created by Syd Cain for "Live and Let Die" will be up for auction by Christie's, Geneva, on November 14, 2011

Estimate: CHF 200,000 – CHF 400,000 ($233,043 – $466,087)

Sale Information: Sale 1383, “Important Watches,” 14 November 2011, Geneva, Switzerland

Overview

Lot Description

James Bond’s specially adapted Rolex wristwatch converted from a stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner wristwatch. Signed Rolex, Oyster Perpetual, 660ft=200m, Submariner, Ref. 5513, case no. 2’683’776, manufactured in 1972 and then converted. Movement removed to allow customisation, black dial, luminous baton and dot numerals, luminous mercedes-style hands, tonneau-shaped case with calibrated rotating black bezel with saw-tooth edge, modified screw back, the inside case back signed Roger Moore 007, screw down crown, stainless steel Rolex Oyster expandable bracelet with deployant clasp stamped 7-72, a small hole in the end links used to attach an invisible wire to unzip Miss Caruso’s dress, case and dial signed. 39 mm. diam.

Special Notice

Prospective buyers should be aware continue reading…