WORDS
Nicholas Ross
For almost a century, 007 brands like N. Peal, Crockett & Jones and Globe-Trotter have taken up residency in Burlington Arcade. Now, Mayfair’s iconic retail destination has created The 007, an experience that pays homage to Goldfinger (1964), often cited as the greatest James Bond film.
Once visitors have slipped past the Beadles and into the Arcade, they will spot three handcrafted golden sculptures of the Aston Martin DB5, which hang suspended as though having crashed through the glass ceiling, mid chase-sequence. Beneath them, along the main walkway is a carpet featuring 31 of Goldfinger’s memorable quotes in running order.
If, like Bond, you’re something of an epicurean, you ought to know that two bars have been designed exclusively for The 007. Open for the rest of the year, they offer signature cocktails (shaken or stirred) created in partnership with Belvedere Vodka, Blackwell Rum, Champagne Bollinger and The Macallan. As in Q Branch, curiosities abound – Oddjob’s lethal hat, a (non-radioactive) Fort Knox gold bar and the spyhole clock from Auric Goldfinger’s private jet, which is being exhibited here for the first time.
There is a boutique containing collectibles and exclusive items on the first floor. Potential Christmas gifts include the James Bond 2024 luxury advent calendar, or one of the limited-edition framed prints available here. You can also bid on a limited number of The Macallan’s collectible 60th Anniversary “Decades” whisky sets, with all proceeds to be donated to charity.
On the ultra-glamorous side of things, Fabergé’s Octopussy capsule collection is showcased, including the handcrafted, limited-edition Egg Objet. Not to mention the Seamaster Diver 300M Commander’s Watch (2017) or the Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition (2019) from Omega, James Bond watch partner since GoldenEye (1995). The only James Bond timepieces ever to be made in yellow gold, they were designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969).
The 007 exhibition at House 12-13 Burlington Arcade, Mayfair, London is on until 31 December 2024. Opening hours are 10am-7pm, Monday-Saturday and 11am-6pm on Sunday. No reservations are available, and the bar will operate on a walk-in basis.