Aston Martin DB5 Appraisal
Category: Automobile
Description
The image shows a classic silver Aston Martin DB5. This specific vehicle is highly recognizable as connected with the James Bond film series, particularly due to the license plate 'BMT 216A'. It is a two-door coupe with wire wheels and appears to be in excellent condition, parked on a cobblestone street with a building in the background. Key features visible include the iconic Aston Martin grille, hood scoop, and sleek body lines characteristic of the model.
Appraisal Report
Having thoroughly examined the provided image and description of the Aston Martin DB5 bearing the iconic license plate 'BMT 216A', I offer the following appraisal. **1. Item Description and Initial Observations:** The subject of this appraisal is a silver Aston Martin DB5, a two-door coupe instantly recognizable by its association with the James Bond film franchise, particularly due to the 'BMT 216A' registration. The vehicle, as depicted, is parked on a cobblestone street and presents with classic features such as wire wheels, the signature Aston Martin grille, a prominent hood scoop, and the model's undeniably sleek body lines. Visually, the vehicle appears to be in excellent condition. **2. Assessment of Condition and Authenticity:** * **Condition:** From visual inspection, the vehicle presents in excellent cosmetic condition. The silver paintwork appears lustrous and well-maintained, with body panels showing good fit and finish. Chrome elements and wire wheels seem to be in excellent order. While a comprehensive mechanical inspection and undercarriage examination would be necessary for a complete condition assessment, the visible aspects suggest a high level of care and preservation, consistent with a show-quality or collector-grade vehicle. * **Authenticity:** The presence of the 'BMT 216A' license plate is of paramount importance. Based on the provided information establishing this vehicle's strong connection to the James Bond film series, this appraisal assumes the vehicle is an authentic Aston Martin DB5 with verified provenance linking it to this celebrated franchise. The specific history and role of this particular 'BMT 216A' chassis within the Bond canon (e.g., screen-used hero car, stunt car, promotional vehicle) would further refine its position within the hierarchy of Bond cars, but any such authenticated example is exceptionally significant. **3. Market Analysis:** * **Market Overview:** The classic car market, particularly for blue-chip marques like Aston Martin, remains robust. The DB5 model, independent of any cinematic association, is highly coveted. However, the direct, verifiable link to James Bond elevates this vehicle into an entirely different stratum of collectibility, placing it among the most desirable and valuable automobiles in the world. Such cars are considered cultural artifacts and command attention from a global audience of discerning collectors and enthusiasts. * **Comparables:** Standard Aston Martin DB5s in concours or near-concours condition typically trade in the range of $700,000 to $1,500,000, depending on history, restoration quality, and originality. However, DB5s with confirmed James Bond provenance achieve significantly higher values. For example, one of the original gadget-equipped DB5s used for promotional purposes for 'Goldfinger' and 'Thunderball' (Chassis DB5/2008/R) sold for $6.385 million at an RM Sotheby's auction in August 2019. Another Bond promotional DB5 sold for $4.6 million in 2010. These sales underscore the immense premium afforded by genuine Bond history. **4. Demand and Rarity:** * **Rarity:** While approximately 1,059 Aston Martin DB5s were produced, making them relatively rare, authenticated James Bond DB5s are exceptionally rare. Only a handful of cars were used in connection with the films or their promotion and have survived with documented history. The 'BMT 216A' plate signifies one of these exclusive vehicles. * **Demand:** Demand for genuine James Bond DB5s is exceptionally high and global. These vehicles are not merely cars but symbols of cinematic history, style, and adventure, appealing to a broad base of serious collectors, investors, and cultural institutions. **5. Factors Significantly Impacting Value:** * **James Bond Provenance:** This is unequivocally the most significant value driver. The specific details of its use in relation to the Bond franchise (which films, specific scenes, on-screen presence, promotional tours) and the completeness of its documentation are critical. The 'BMT 216A' plate is a powerful identifier of this provenance. * **Condition and Originality:** The vehicle's current excellent visual condition is a major asset. The degree of originality, the quality of any restoration work, and the presence and functionality of any film-related modifications or gadgets (if applicable to this car's history) will heavily influence its value. * **Documentation and History:** A comprehensive and unimpeachable historical file, including build records, ownership chain, period photographs, film usage verification, and restoration details, is vital for a car of this magnitude. **6. Valuation Conclusion:** Considering the iconic status of the Aston Martin DB5, its profound connection to the James Bond franchise as evidenced by the 'BMT 216A' license plate, its apparent excellent condition, and the strong market performance of comparable authenticated Bond cars, this vehicle represents an automotive and cultural treasure of the highest order. Based on my examination and current market conditions, I appraise this Aston Martin DB5 as follows:
Appraisal Value
$6,000,000 - $7,000,000