Fullbore Issue 25 — Autumn/Winter 2017

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A U T U M N / WI N TER 2 0 1 7

Nicholas Mee & Co’s world of Aston Martin

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ISS U E 2 5

Front cover image: 1960 Aston Martin DB4 Series 2, one of fewer than 10 supplied new in Wedgwood Blue

Sales

Service & Aftercare

Contacts

Nicholas Mee & Company Ltd

Nicholas Mee & Company Ltd

T: +44 (0)208 741 8822

Brackenbury House,

Brackenbury Garage,

F: +44 (0)208 741 7422

158-160 Goldhawk Road,

12 Wellesley Avenue,

info@nicholasmee.co.uk

West London, W12 8HJ

London, W6 0UP

http://www.nicholasmee.co.uk

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MEE SPEAK Nick’s take on the world of Aston Martin, including exciting news for 2018 OPENING HOURS Our planned opening hours for the forthcoming holiday season MARKET REVIEW It’s that time again. Our thoughts on the Aston Martin market at the end of 2017 ON THE MOVE More details on our expansion and relocation plans for 2018 BLACK BEAUTY The V8 Vantage Special Edition, one of Aston’s most rare models WHAT’S IN STOCK The latest news from the showroom, including a DB5 once owned by rock legend Robert Plant INTO THE BLUE Steve Wakefield drives a Series 2 DB4, the ‘Connoisseur’s Choice’ FROM THE ARCHIVES It’s 2002. It’s cold, snowy and the baddies are after 007. How’s he going to escape?

ASTONSTORE CHRISTMAS 2017 Some ideas for you – or your car – for Christmas LIFE OF A SALESMAN Ed Barton-Hilton explains how he started at NM&Co and what keeps him occupied when away from the showroom BON VOYAGE Graham Hudson has been with us for many years but has now taken the decision to retire to the country – some words from Nick

© Nicholas Mee & Co Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior permission in writing of the copyright owner.

Creative Director: Adrian Morley, www.theseen.biz

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MEE SP EA K While the world in general might feel somewhat upside down, with current events and the trend for headlinegrabbing fake news, it’s refreshing to report that as far as Aston Martin is concerned, it’s all very real and positive. The plethora of genuine stories from and about the company underlines the strength of the brand and shows there’s a healthy market for its products. The launch of the all-new and striking Vantage; two Vanquish Zagato limited-editions; news of its largest-ever worldwide dealer opening in Japan; a hi-tech bicycle and even a submarine – just a few of the positive announcements from Gaydon since our last FullBore, ‘FullFat’ edition in the summer. And, even better, the company’s back in the black.

Now for our own headlines. To better serve your needs and our requirements for state-of-the-art, spacious workshop and showroom facilities, Nicholas Mee & Co Ltd will be relocating in 2018 to a two-acre site in rural Hertfordshire. The contractors are currently hard at work preparing the land, reconstructing the heritage-listed buildings and raising new structures in keeping with the historic nature of the location. Everything will be finished in early 2018, the year in which we celebrate our 25th anniversary.

Our intention is to make it a true ‘destination experience’ for customers new and old, as well as somewhere owners and enthusiasts will enjoy visiting. This significant investment in Aston Martin’s heritage underlines our ongoing commitment to both the manufacturer’s past catalogue and its exciting future.

With the classic car industry’s reported £5.5billion p.a. contribution to the UK economy, our exciting move and plans will strengthen our long-term position as one of the leaders in the ever-popular realm of classic cars. Years in the planning, further details of the facilities and their exact location will be released over the coming months.

Meanwhile, we are very excited about it all and look forward to welcoming readers and customers to our new Aston Martin Heritage base next spring.

In this issue, we reveal one of Aston Martin’s greatest cars, relatively unknown even to many enthusiasts of the marque: the 2000 Vantage Volante ‘Special Edition’. With no publicity, just eight examples were built exclusively for the most loyal, dedicated and favoured customers of the day. Read our report and judge for yourself where these eight jewels lie in Aston Martin’s crown of achievement.

We also publish our annual market review, bringing you up to date with our thoughts on today’s marketplace. We trust it’s of interest to those either considering entering the world of classic Aston Martins or refining their current garages.

The festive season lies around the corner. We hope it will bring much joy to all readers and that their thoughts will turn, post-turkey and mince pies, to the spring and plans for motoring events in 2018. Our showroom stocklist has some last-minute present ideas and, as ever, we’re here to discuss future plans, be they purchases or disposals.

For expert advice on sales, service or questions on events, do call or mail one of our team for a prompt response.

For now, the team at Nicholas Mee & Co wish all readers, customers and friends of the business a special time this Christmas, and suggest that if you get bored at any time over the festivities you view some of the stimulating videos on our website. The Oscars, we’re coming for you!

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Christmas op Nicholas Mee & Company will close for bu and will reopen at 8am o

We will be open for Car Sales enqu on the 27th, 28th and

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pening hours: usiness at 5pm on Friday 22nd December on Tuesday 2nd January.

uiries, strictly by appointment only, d 29th of December.

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M a r ke t Re v i e w 2017 W o r d s / S t e v e W ak e f i e l d

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2016 DB9 GT

1984 V8 Vantage

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Market Review 2017: Time to finesse

It was Rob Johnson of NM&Co’s long-term partners Classic & Sports Finance that summed up a significant factor in today’s collectors’ car market: “Clients are saying to me that they have five or six really nice cars, but they would quite like one ’to refine the collection into less, but more special cars.”

Nick concurred. “We’re seeing more part-exchanges than outright cash purchases. Owners are refining their garages so that they can trade up whilst the cash differences are low. It’s good for those new to the market, as they have the opportunity of buying wellcared-for cars from genuine enthusiast owners.”

Rob, Nick, Neal, Ed and myself were gathered round the boardroom table at the Brackenbury House. It was annual Market Review time, an opportunity for everyone to have his say and, as usual, no one held back.

First off was a general discourse on the state of the market. ‘Stable’ best describes it, and as Neal put it most succinctly, “No one is under any illusion now that buying a classic car is a one-way trip to dramatic short-term profit. As a result, we’re seeing enthusiasts coming back to the market who appreciate the cars as fine-driving works of art, with good potential for medium to long-term financial appreciation.

“They are younger too, and internet savvy, the ‘generation of the forums’, if you like,” he added. Ed agreed: “We’re seeing more focus on the later cars

rather than the established hero models of the 1960s.

There’s a new breed entering the market and they want their own hero cars from the 80s and 90s.”

“Now prices have stabilised, the real enthusiast is back in play. They want originality and a car they really can use,” said Rob. “And unlike Ferrari, the premium market for new limited-edition Aston Martins, trading way above list prices has never really taken off, so there’s little fall-out from a softening trend, and that can only be a good thing.”

Nick agreed (and he’s observed the ebbs and flows of the business far longer than most). “The Aston Market of every era car is steadier, compared with Ferrari and Porsche. It’s not prone to the same peaks and troughs of the premium market for the latest model, it’s a steadier market and perhaps a reflection of the buyer profile.”

And Aston owners – congratulate yourselves here – maintain their cars better. “A buyer of a modern Aston Martin will look after his car, there’s no doubt about that,” said Ed. “We are always very careful with the cars we offer, most we see come from a good home and if not, it’s not for us. It’s reassuring for new buyers to realise that.”

Finally, speaking generally, all were agreed that the recent cars from Gaydon, now over 10 years old, are no more ‘complicated’ than a modern BMW or Mercedes.

The hi-tech hybrid supercars coming through will

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prove a challenge, but a DB9, DBS or new Vanquish is straightforward to work on, which is a big plus when considering future values.

But back to the classics and, era by era, what’s been happening in 2017 and how do things look for the New Year?

The perennial story of Feltham cars being ‘undervalued’, ‘good value’ and ‘underrated’ – particularly compared with the equivalent Ferrari – carries on. In the summer edition of FullBore, Neal and I drove a DB Mk III and we both really enjoyed it. When the plethora of ‘barn-finds’ bought at auction come out of expensive restorations, owners are going to want top-dollar for them. Which bodes well for future values, especially in the long term.

The classic DBs, the 4s, 5s and 6s from Newport Pagnell, are likewise fairly static, with few good cars coming to the market. “These are ‘special occasion cars’, something a successful businessman might buy for himself, to celebrate the sale of his company,” said Rob. “But owners of DB5s and DB6 Volantes are keeping them,” noted Neal. “DBs might not be selling with big premiums right now, but those who bought them five or so years ago are sitting pretty. They’ve got a lovely car that’s been earning more for them, even after running costs, than money in a bank account.” And there are very few distress sales, according to Rob – people are simply holding onto the cars.

Vantage remains ‘the one to have’. So much so that values of non-Vantages are looking attractive. “They are good to drive, some would say better in many ways than a raw Vantage, certainly every day, and appeal right across the age spectrum of buyers. Park a latemodel V8 in Mayfair or Chelsea and watch well-heeled bystanders of all ages and sexes stop and stare,” said Nick.

“They are cars to buy today but, again, few owners are selling,” he added. “The ‘Vantage premium’ is substantial now, it makes the regular cars look very affordable.”

In this same room 12 months ago ‘the one to watch’ was the supercharged Vantage. Twelve months on, the team reports that interest in them has certainly hotted up, with the V600s and Le Mans (of which only 40 were built) at the top of the tree.

“They are 90s supercars,” said Nick. “Look at how a dotcom billionaire Hoovered up the low-production special Porsches at RM’s London auction last year.

Or think about Ferrari’s 288 GTO (£2.2m, 272 built) and F40 (£1.1m, 1,315 built).” If anything ticks the box marked ‘generational shift’, it’s the Vantage 550s, V600s and Le Mans.

Not so far removed, but better bracketed as ‘its day is coming’, is the V8 Vantage Zagato. “These cars should be valued at a multiple of a regular X Pack V8 Vantage,” said Nick. “They may appear quirky but that’s irrelevant, they are extreme and built in small numbers. Right now, they’re interesting.”

As far as William Towns’ V8s are concerned, the V8

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2004 Vanquish

2000 V8 Vantage ‘Le Mans’

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And so to Newport Pagnell’s last hurrah, the mighty Vanquish. Ed is a fan: “In ten to fifteen years’ time these will be appreciated as a real classic marking a shift in AM’s fortunes.”

“You’ve got to maintain them. If any car warrants a bulging history file, a Vanquish is it,” said Neal, adding a note of caution.

On the New Era front, Aston Martin’s global expansion can only be good for the brand. A major new dealer in Japan, its largest in the world, helping spread the word, boosting interest in the famous winged-badge, in overseas markets. Aston had just launched three new Zagato versions of the Vanquish and Neal felt that would stimulate an interest in the V8, DB7 and V12 special-editions: “We’re looking forward to one day having them in our newly located showrooms.”

So, come on guys, crystal ball time, what’s going to be hot in 10 years’ time?

Ed Barton-Hilton: “Newport Pagnell Vanquish. I’m surprised they have not taken off further, time will inevitably see them rise.”

Neal Garrard: “A Vantage Le Mans. £400k+ today and surely a £1million Aston in the future.”

Rob Johnson: “I’ll go with Ed on the Vanquish.

Underrated, incredible presence and hard to find a good one. There won’t be many good ones to choose from in years to come” Nicholas Mee: “There seems little doubt the DB9 GT will ultimately be a good investment, as the ‘last of line’

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of the most significant and successful product from Aston Martin’s 104 years.”

For me, it would have to be an early, ‘bolt-on’ V8 Vantage, perhaps with a 6.3 conversion. But over to Nick for the final word: “First off, when asked about ‘investment’, we always recommend clients to take the long-term view, five to ten years or so. Look back to 2007 and you will see how values have risen way ahead most other investments, even if there has been some ‘cooling down’ over the last 24 months from the sharp rises of 2012-15. Away from equities – on a roll today, but with risks attached – and with money deposit rates still at all-time lows, it’s as good as anywhere to park money and get a return, all the while enjoying the multi-dimensional experience that is driving a classic. Historically there’s a strong case for cars, particularly over the medium-term and of course, zero tax consideration on any up-side.

“And as to where we came in, activity this year has been steadier, with marque enthusiasts preferring to refine and reduce their collections, trading in and up to the better cars. Market commentators speak about a ‘flight to quality’ – I call it ‘finessing’. That means more trade-ins for us and means new buyers can find outstanding cars once owned by the really enthusiastic collectors.

“But enough of all this; never forget the reason why we all love these cars and why we bought them – they are great to drive, beautiful to look at and give automatic access to an interesting lifestyle. So get out there and enjoy the experience!”

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#Trendi ng ‘We have an active presence on a number of social media channels including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn. We hope that all of our followers enjoy the content that we are able to share. We have taken time out to review our activity this year to establish which cars / activities have encouraged the most ‘engagement’ with our followers that may also support some of the market trends commented on elsewhere in FullBore:

YOUTUBE

TWITTER

YouTube – Via YouTube we are able to broadcasts videos of the various cars that we have offer for sale, us in action at various events and also various videos that we believe could be interesting and entertaining. Here are our two most popular (in terms of views) videos from 2017:

The fast track for regular Nicholas Mee & Co and Aston Martin news and gossip! Our most popular tweet of 2017:

Aston Martin DB4 Convertible

Aston Martin V8 Volante POW

Limited Edition 600bhp

INSTAGRAM Instagram – Regular postings from both the sales and workshop departments of the company providing our followers with great Aston Martin imagery and ‘behind the scene’s’ photographs.

Our posts that have attracted the most attention so far in 2017 are:

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on the move Spring 2018

In the spring of next year our sales team, technicians and parts staff will be relocating to a new base only minutes from London’s M25, the M1 and A1 arterial routes. Five minutes from mainline rail links and just 20 miles from Marble Arch, our new home is in rural Hertfordshire.

The new two-acre historic site combines a number of 200-year-old listed barns and newly constructed period-style buildings. The architects and builders have gone to great lengths to retain the original features while providing new, state-of-the-art facilities for us.

In addition to a newly equipped workshop and parts department, there will also be expansive showroom and gallery spaces for both the display of cars and visitor events. The overall design is a combination of historic buildings with contemporary facilities and will provide us with a new and suitably ‘heritage’ environment for everyone to enjoy.

We will benefit from substantially more space than we currently have for servicing, restoration and the sales of cars and parts, and will offer collection and delivery services by covered transporter or chauffeur. The excellent surrounding road network gives easy

access to London’s Heathrow, Luton and Stansted airports, while a short hop from the local mainline railway station offers clients, friends and readers the opportunity to visit by car or rail to enjoy a vibrant new Aston Martin heritage experience.

With the activities of the classic car industry in the UK now estimated at £5.5billion per annum, this is a significant investment in our own and Aston Martin’s heritage. The move allows us to operate more efficiently and grow the business, while further developing our activities and building even further on our prominent position within this thriving sector.

Very exciting times for NM&Co. We sincerely hope you will join us in looking forward to the next step in the 25-year journey since NM&Co was incorporated.

Nick, Neal, Ed and the team P.S. Details of the exact location will be announced shortly, once the hard-hats have moved off site!

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Black Beauty: The V8 Vantage Volante Special Edition

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Seventy-five DB4 GTs? Ten a penny. Thirty-seven ‘Short Chassis’ Volantes?

Commonplace. Even the figure of nineteen DB4 GT Zagatos is greater than double the number built of one of Newport Pagnell’s rarest models. And yet few have heard of the V8 Vantage Volante Special Edition, let alone seen one.

Let FullBore be your guide to the very last V8 to be built at Newport Pagnell in 2000 before the production lines were switched over to the Vanquish.

Genesis Aston Martin had always produced a coupé first, then a convertible – since the DB6, a ‘Volante’. As sure as night followed day, within a year or so of launch, the latest Aston would be available as a drop-top, a vitally important model, particularly in the US. Volantes would generally be identical to ‘Saloons’ – in Aston-speak – but having extra strengthening to compensate for the removal of the roof and usually delivered in milder tune.

The supercharged ‘Vantage’ coupé was introduced in 1993. Packing two Eaton, Roots-type superchargers, the mighty engine’s power leapt from 330bhp to 550bhp – hence the title occasionally granted to this car, ‘V550 Vantage’. As if Aston naming wasn’t complicated enough already…

Five years later, at the British Motor Show in Birmingham, Aston Martin revealed the V600 version, a 600bhp special-order by Kingsley Riding-Felce’s team at the Newport Pagnell Service Department. By that time,

the ‘V8 Coupé’ was the company’s standard model, and also in Birmingham visitors saw a new Volante based on the V8 Coupé, but with an important difference: in order to give rear passengers extra legroom, 200mm was added to the wheelbase. This gave extra space in the rear passenger compartment and boot, while allowing room for the powered hood.

These new V8 Volantes were powered by Aston’s familiar fuel-injected V8, coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission and were effortlessly fast, but lacked the heavyweight punch of the supercharged Vantage. As buyers were told the new Volante was unsuited to the sledgehammer power of the 550bhp engine, a Vantage Volante would never be produced.

But, prompted by the possibility of a handful of orders from Aston’s most loyal customers, the Special Projects Division of Works Service, headed by Steve Bolton and Shaun Rush, had other ideas…

Execution What resulted in the ‘V8 Vantage Volante Special Edition’ was certainly a ‘project’, and a very special one. It fell outside the company’s regular catalogue, thus absolving parent company Ford of some of the comeback of building a handful of cars with such

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colossal performance. A carefully curated list of potential clients was contacted and, without any special marketing material or press activity, commissions for eight orders were received. Three were left-hand drive, five right-hand drive, all were to European specification, fully type-approved and homologated. The basic price was a hefty £230,000, though buyers could add as much as another £100,000 in bespoke commissioning.

meant hand-built, when the manufacturer’s product was essentially all its own design, engineering and construction.

Unlike the regular ‘long-chassis’ V8 Volante, the Vantage Special Edition cars used the standard-length chassis of the V8 Vantage Coupé, endowing them with all the menace of Aston Martin’s fastest road car to date. Some chose the 550bhp engine while others went the whole hog, ordering a V600 engine with enhanced bodywork from the V8 Vantage Le Mans.

“Best of all, the V8 Vantage Volante Special Editions were lovingly built entirely in-house, by human beings, without a robot in sight.”

All were bought by far-sighted clients all-too-aware that this really was the ‘last hand-built’ car from Aston Martin at Newport Pagnell. And for many of the craftsmen that built them it was their final job at the company.

“No production car made since, by Aston Martin nor any other manufacturer, can lay claim to having such a high proportion of manual craftsmanship and in-house engineering in its DNA.

This motor car Delivered new to an established Aston Martin enthusiast and car collector in Germany, this six-speed manual Special Edition is in its original specification of Cannock Black with Forest Green-piped black interior.

NM&Co is delighted to have sourced the car for a client this autumn and it’s currently on its way to an enthusiast collector in North America.

The cars were built in one batch, in 2000. Once completed, the Newport Pagnell factory’s doors were closed for refurbishment and a new line for the Vanquish installed. An era had ended and a way of working – separate chassis, hand-formed body, hours spent painting and polishing – that would be familiar to the coachbuilders and metalworkers of the 1920s onwards, had disappeared forever.

Nick considers the V8 Vantage Volante Special Edition “In years to come, when motoring historians look back, the V8 Vantage Volante Special Edition will surely be recalled for what it is: a brutally powerful, ‘old schoolengineered’ car hand-built in a way that by today’s thinking makes no economic sense.

“It is a car irrelevant to modern everyday standards.

Offering commanding performance in magnificent style, they are a testament to an era when hand-built,

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Words / S t e v e W ak e f i e l d Steve Wakefield is one of the most experienced commentators on the world of Aston Martin, new and old. Having club-raced DB Astons, and road-tested all Gaydon-era cars, he’s the newly appointed Editor of the Aston Martin Heritage Trust annual ‘Aston’ and also works as an independent consultant in the realm of collectors’ classic cars.

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What’s in stock In this section we showcase a selection of the best examples of Aston Martins from the 1950s to the present day, all available for sale at our Brackenbury House showrooms.

Prior to delivery all cars are supplied serviced according to schedule, with a pre-delivery Inspection Report, 12 months MOT and 12 months warranty.

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1 960 Aston Mar t i n D B 4 Se r i es II

£535, 00 0

OVERVIEW Finished in its original build colour of Wedgwood Blue with blue hide, this superbly restored example of what is generally regarded as the prettiest of the DB4 evolution was originally maintained by Aston Martin itself before passing to its next North-of-Englandbased owners. It comes with its original buff log book and build sheet and an extensive history file that includes a large quantity of MOT test certificates dating from 1967. These attest to the mileage of just 66,000miles covered from 1960 and confirm that the original registration number is still valid.

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The thorough restoration can most accurately be described as ‘meticulous’ and totally faithful to the original. A complete résumé with invoices for labour and parts used accompanies the substantial history file. Restoration work includes: chassis, body, bare-metal paint, complete retrim in mid-blue hide, engine rebuild and restorative work to the gearbox, axle, brakes, suspension, fuel system, instruments, wiring, chrome-plating and glass. Since completion, this stunning car has been driven sparingly in dry weather and would undoubtedly fare well in any concours event.

M OR E IN F O

Call (0)20 8741 8822

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1996 A ston M arti n V8 Vantag e V550 £195,000

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1986 As t o n Ma r t in V 8 E f i £165,0 00

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Call (0)20 8741 8822

Call (0)20 8741 8822

1987 Aston M arti n V8 Vantag e Z ag ato £525,000

2004 As t o n Ma r t in Va n q u is h £ 89,9 50

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1965 Asto n Ma r t i n D B 5

£P O A

OVERVIEW Chassis ‘1744/R’ was built in 1965 and found its way to Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant’s ownership in the early 1970s.

Plant, who lives in the heart of England to this day, owned the car until summer 1986 when it was sold to father-and-son collectors also based in the West Midlands. Shortly afterwards the DB5 was entrusted to Aston Martin agents Chapman Spooner for a restoration that resulted in its current, exemplary condition.

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Entered in a number of AMOC and local concours during the 1980s, the car remained in the same ownership until 2008 when it was purchased by the current owner from Nicholas Mee & Co. Used very sparingly and kept in a controlled environment since 2008, ‘1744/R’ has been regularly maintained by local and respected Aston Martin specialists. Mechanically excellent, with only the lightest signs of use, this iconic car can most accurately be described as having received a Whole Lotta Love...

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1996 Asto n M arti n V8 C oupe £120,000

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1 984 As t o n Ma r t in V 8 Va n t a g e £225,0 00

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Call (0)20 8741 8822

Call (0)20 8741 8822

2007 Aston M arti n Va n qui sh S (L HD) £135,000

1952 As t o n Ma r t in D B 2 £ 275,0 00

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1 9 8 4 Aston Mar ti n V 8 Vant a g e ( LHD)

ÂŁ425 ,0 0 0

OVERVIEW This left-hand drive V8 Vantage, originally supplied by Aston Martin for export to the Middle East, has in more recent years been the recipient of a substantial programme of restoration and upgrade

by Aston Martin Works, bringing it to the exceptional standard in which it is presented today.

The car’s comprehensive history file includes a detailed assessment and chronicle of the works carried out at Newport Pagnell in 2014, including chassis work, a bare-metal repaint to original colours of Royal Cherry over Parchment hide and a

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complete engine rebuild to later X-Pack specification. A gearbox rebuild and factory braking, steering and suspension upgrades were carried out at the same time.

The scope and execution of the work completed on behalf of the last owner has brought this rare (one of 127) and original left-hand drive V8 Vantage to its current outstanding condition.

Professionally stored and very lightly used since completion, the car is ready for its next custodian to cherish and enjoy.

Call (0)20 8741 8822

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2010 Aston M arti n DBS Car bo n Black Edi ti on £99,950

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2002 As t o n Ma r t in D B 7 Va n t a g e £ 46,9 50

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Call (0)20 8741 8822

Call (0)20 8741 8822

2005 A ston M arti n Va n q ui sh S ‘ L ate das h’ £139,950

1 963 As t o n Ma r t in D B 4 C o n v e r t ible £P O A

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2016 Aston Ma r t i n GT12

£425, 000

OVERVIEW The GT12 was launched in February 2015, a 205mph machine, the most potent and uncompromising Vantage yet. Limited to just 100 examples worldwide, at the heart of the GT12 was a 600bhp, 6.0-litre engine paired with a lightning-fast Sportshift III gearbox.

Extensive use of carbonfibre reduced the standard car’s weight to just 1,500kg, while a dramatic aero package of a carbonfibre rear wing produced significant downforce, increased grip and gave it that menacing look. GT12s were offered to Aston’s best customers and are now in some of the most exclusive garages in the world.

This particular example is finished in a unique colour from Aston Martin Q: Frosted Bahama Yellow. Inside, grey Alcantara is contrast-stitched with Sahara Tan thread. In total, the car was ordered with some £30,000 of optional extras. The first – and only – owner of this GT12 took delivery in March 2016 and since then it’s covered just 113km. It’s in perfect ‘delivery’ condition and available immediately, freshly serviced by Aston Martin with the balance of its warranty remaining.

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Call (0)20 8741 8822

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2000 A ston M arti n V8 Vantag e ‘ L e M ans’ £475,000

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2010 As t o n Ma r t in Va n t a g e GT 2 £ 299,9 50

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Call (0)20 8741 8822

Call (0)20 8741 8822

1968 Ferrari 330 GTC £495,000

2008 As t o n Ma r t in V 8 Va n t a g e ‘ N 400’ £ 52,9 50

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Into the Blue: A connoisseur’s choice

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Driving a 1960 Aston Martin DB4 Series 2

Less is more, so the saying goes, and the more time you spend behind the wheel of an early DB4, the more you appreciate the purity, lightness and agility of these first-of-the-line Newport Pagnell DBs. Take this car. First deliveries of Aston Martin’s all-new DB4 started in late-1958. The stunning, Touringdesigned 2+2 was a rival to anything from Ferrari or Maserati for exclusivity and performance. It was more advanced than Jaguar’s XK 150, and with all-round disc brakes, an all-alloy, twin-cam 240bhp ’six and 140mph capability, for wealthy industrialists and the European jet set it immediately became the car to have.

So much so that the first DB4s were eagerly taken up by well-heeled Italian playboys who immediately set off, pedal-to-the-metal, on record runs down long sections of the autostrada in their new DB4s over hot bank holiday weekends. Aston Martin needed extra time to fully develop the car and the Series 2 that appeared in January 1960 was a more rounded machine, with subtle technical changes incorporated for improved durability.

Looking back at the DB4 of that time, you can’t help concluding that it was a gorgeous car. It was the first

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of the great 1960s David Brown DBs, one eventually to run to five series, each slightly different and more developed, gradually moving away from the simple original to a slightly longer and heavier version, almost identical to the DB5.

For marque enthusiasts, the Series 2 has it all: aggressive bonnet scoop, square-section stamped grille, famous ‘cathedral window’ rear lights and short boot. Other than minor details, the only difference from the first DB4 was that the S2 has a front-, rather than rear-hinged bonnet. For the Series 3 Aston dropped the iconic rear lights, for the Series 4 the onepiece grille was replaced by a new multi-section version and the Series 5, with its longer boot, was 9cm longer.

If you want simplicity, a car most faithful to Carrozzeria Touring’s original, then it’s either a S1 or S2. So when Nick and Neal asked me to try a restored Series 2 I jumped at the chance.

This car was first delivered in 1960 via Yorkshire main agents Charles Sydney. The Bradford-based buyer chose a rare colour from Aston Martin’s palette, Wedgwood Blue. It’s quite possible that fewer than 10 cars were made in this colour. For comparison, at least 97 DB4s were Dubonnet Rosso. To complement the delicate blue exterior, when delivered the interior was Off-White, since restored to a more practical – and now immaculate – medium-blue hide.

This is a DB4 to be appreciated. The doors open and close effortlessly, their lighter weight a result of windup, rather than electric windows. The engine catches immediately and the slim David Brown four-speed

gear-lever, with its charismatic Bakelite knob, clacks! home with the precision of a Holland & Holland overand-under. With its narrow tyres and willowy woodrimmed steering wheel, the car has a delicate feel – it’s some 100kg lighter than a DB5. The performance from the standard twin-SU engine just seems sharper in this car.

Works driver Roy Salvadori made much of the seating in the DB4 when he tested an early car for Road & Track in May 1959. “At last a British manufacturer has seen fit to include as standard the Chapman Reutter seat mechanism,” he said, declaring that the seats “give support where it is needed and allow a relaxed driving position.” Hear, hear, they do – although those accustomed to Herr Reutter’s modern Recaros might take a while to settle in. Cornering fast in a 1960s Aston requires willpower and concentration, much as does wearing a hat a stiff breeze. If that makes sense.

Inside, the classic Aston Martin cabin of black enamel, black leatherette, blue leather and carpet is a joy. Ed Barton-Hilton favours the Series 2 DB4 and I can see why. In fact, sitting there with a quivering rev counter and a view over the long bonnet with exaggerated power bulge and air intake reminded me of my times racing a DB4. It’s a good place to be.

The slender A- and B-pillars are typical DB Aston and provide a superb, airy view of the road ahead. It wasn’t appropriate to follow Salvadori’s example and, at over 100mph, “feel a definite kick” when you change up into top, but isn’t it wonderful that, separated by 100 or so chassis numbers, I’m in the cabin of the same model Aston as the winner of Le Mans? Salvadori and

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Shelby’s feat was accomplished only a month after the Englishman’s DB4 test was published in the US. And really, that’s what Aston Martin ownership is all about. The connect with the brilliant David Brown Racing team, an engine that was developed in the DBR2 sports-racer, the photos of an AML-owned DB4 behind the pits at Le Mans when the Project Cars hit 180mph in the early 60s.

Delicate, lightweight and the purest of them all, the Series 2 is the connoisseur’s DB4.

Note: The car tested is for sale at the Brackenbury Showrooms. It has benefited from a full restoration by marque specialists and has its original build sheet and buff log-book. Scores of MOTs dating back to 1967 give every indication that the recorded mileage of 66,000 miles from 1960 is correct.

For full details, see http://www.nicholasmee.co.uk/carsales/8042046-aston-martin-db4-series-ii/

Words / S t e v e W ak e f i e l d Steve Wakefield is one of the most experienced commentators on the world of Aston Martin, new and old. Having club-raced DB Astons, and road-tested all Gaydon-era cars, he’s the newly appointed Editor of the Aston Martin Heritage Trust annual ‘Aston’ and also works as an independent consultant in the realm of collectors’ classic cars.

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F RO M TH E A R C HIV E S A delve into Aston’s glorious past

It’s 2002 and – picture the scene – James Bond (Pierce Brosnan) returns to the Icelandic ice palace lair of British billionaire Gustav Graves (Toby Stephens) to rescue Giacinta ‘Jinx’ Johnson, an NSA agent played by Halle Berry.

They escape, but are followed by Zao, a North Korean terrorist working for rogue North Korean colonel Tan-Sun Moon. Bond has his special Aston Vanquish (specially prepared by M to include retractable tyre spikes, ‘adaptive camouflage’ and an onboard rocket launcher) while Zao is at the wheel of a Jaguar XKR. The exciting chase across snow-covered scenery is a highlight of the film and continues into the rapidly melting ice palace. Bond kills Zao by causing an giant ice chandelier to fall onto him and then revives Jinx after she has drowned.

As always, the Aston Martin steals the show.

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Aston Martin Rhodium Plated Wing Keyring This beautiful Aston Martin ‘wings’ keyring features a rhodium plated and enameled ‘badge’ set onto a key fob made from the finest, hand stitched black leather.

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A proper mug for your morning brew, featuring abstract image of the Aston Martin Racing Vantage race car.

Versatile rucksack/backpack with padded, adjustable shoulder straps for comfort There’s a small multi-function full zip front pocket and the main compartment is roomy, with a padded section for carrying a laptop or tablet.

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LIFE of a S alesma n Ed Barton-Hilton

In the first of an occasional series focusing on the personalities behind the NM&Co name, FullBore spoke with Ed Barton-Hilton, Sales & Marketing Manager at the Brackenbury Showrooms, about a typical week in the office, how he got into the business, weekends off racing an MGB and exactly how to set the ignition timing on a 1971 Triumph Bonneville. (We made the last bit up, but try him on it the next time you’re in town.)

So, when did your love affair with Astons take off?

From a young age. I had a fascination with all things mechanical, born from rebuilding lawnmower engines with my grandfather and working on the family cars with my father. In the late 1980s, my father raced

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a lightweight DB4 with friend (and now editor of FullBore!) Steve Wakefield. Watching Dad hauling into the paddock with the smell of hot gear oil and sticky Hoosier tyres was just about the coolest thing I’d seen.

My school books became littered with photos of Astons and the obsession didn’t let up.

How did you get your job?

I studied Automotive Design at university and, as a debt-ridden graduate, I needed a quick buck so I knocked on the door or the local Volkswagen dealer and asked for a job. “Sales or workshop?” they asked.

“Whatever pays more, Sir!” I started on Monday and was determined to break the stereotype of a salesman and do things my way. It didn’t sit well with the management, but seemed to work. I had some success, although I knew from day one that the main dealer environment wouldn’t suit me.

While contemplating a career change – most likely to be a City desk job of some sort – my father and I went to a race meeting at Snetterton. We got chatting to a chap in the pits who was short on race crew so I offered to help out on the pit wall for the remainder

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of the event. This chap was our Commercial Director, Neal Garrard. I had been aware of Nicholas Mee & Co for many years having closely followed Astons, so was intrigued to hear the company had plans to expand and open a dedicated showroom. Weeks later I had signed a contract to be Sales Executive and was thrown into the world of Aston Martin sales. I am very proud to have been part of the success we’ve had in growing the business since 2011.

A ‘dream’ or memorable drive?

I’ve driven hundreds (if not thousands) of Astons by now, however, it would have to be my first real trip in a DB4. It was always on the bucket list and in 2012 a client invited me to a classic car day he was hosting in the West Country. It was a fantastic Special Seriesengine DB4 that pulled like a train and sounded superb. Perfect car, perfect weather, perfect company.

That was a very special day for me.

And a favourite model?

People always ask, “If you could just choose one…” Do you have a favourite child? There is an Aston for every

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occasion, so I usually answer with a list of three: DB4 Series II, V8 Zagato and Vanquish S. This list is subject to constant change though.

What does your typical work week look like?

There is no such thing in this industry and this is a big appeal for me. It keeps work interesting and allows you to be involved in a number of different areas of the business, an opportunity you don’t necessarily get in the ‘corporate’ world. Buying and selling is my primary function, however the expansive list of duties includes managing our showroom operations, overseeing the preparation of the showroom cars with our workshop, event planning, video and photo shoots, building and maintaining websites, digital marketing and social media. And mopping the floor every now and again.

Jack of all, you might say. It’s a rather large skill-set required to do all these functions, but it all comes with experience, over time.

What are your clients like?

All very different. They range from those who have been building collections for years, to those who have saved all their lives to buy their dream car. It’s great to be able to meet so many different people, all on a different journey. What I can say is, they all present their own, unique challenges. It keeps things interesting but everyone gets the same treatment, no matter who. When I refused to give the head of a large fashion brand extra-special treatment, he hugged me and bought the car on the spot. He was testing me.

Lovely chap. True story.

Away from cars, hobbies etc?

Away from cars? I’m a keen skier and enjoy supporting my local rugby club when time permits. I have a 1971 Triumph Bonneville that keeps my hands dirty!

I’ve been fortunate to get back into racing this year with the help of Robert Johnson of Classic & Sports Finance. We have been campaigning an MGB in the Equipe GTS race series. We nursed a poorly engine through the season but we will be back next year with a fresh car and hope to be running closer to the front.

A client kindly invited me shooting this year, which was my first time – I fear that might yet be another expensive hobby!

Words of advice for anyone interested in a career in classic cars?

Operate with transparency and stay true to your word.

Sounds simple, but many can’t do it. Don’t expect to be driving and selling classic cars from day one, or that you’ll be living the playboy lifestyle. It’s hard work and long hours. Gaining experience and grafting is the only way to climb the ladder. I had never dreamt of being a car salesman, and I am certainly not a natural one, but I thoroughly enjoy what I do and this passion helps me be successful.

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bon v o ya g e !

Congratulations, Graham Customers and friends of the company will know Graham Hudson. Ever-friendly and always helpful, ‘our man’ Graham has been with us for many years but has now taken the decision to retire to the country.

A fount of knowledge and loyal friend for almost 40 years, Graham, who turned 67 last month, has made the bold step to downsize and move out of London. He will now be able to pursue his other major interest in life, oriental art.

I first met Graham when working for HR Owen in the early 1970s, when Graham carried out chauffeuring duties for Gerald Ronson’s Heron group, then owners of the company. Shortly after, Graham retrained and became a highly respected and senior member of British Airways’ cabin crew, flying many times around the world. But in between duties for BA his car detailing

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kit awaited him at the Aston Martin showrooms in Sloane Street and Cheval Place. Graham’s forte was to make any car superbly presented and to this day, as well as being a highly proficient driver, his skill at detailing is almost second-to-none.

After we started Nicholas Mee & Co in 1993, we have enjoyed Graham’s support and considerable ability right up to his recent retirement.

I’m sure I speak for many owners and followers of the business by saying a big “thank you” to Graham for his kind-natured and sterling support over the years.

I hope you will join me in wishing him the very best of retirements. His contribution to Nicholas Mee & Co and the team over the last 25 years has been much appreciated.

Thanks, Graham, you’re a star.

Note: I am sure many of you will wish to send Graham a farewell message. Please feel free to do so, they will be forwarded.

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CONSULT THE EXPERTS For expert advice and conďŹ dential discussion on the current value of any Aston Martin, our highly experienced and knowledgeable team are on hand to assist. Outright purchase or consignment, we are pleased to provide our expert opinion on values and the most satisfactory route to market.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES In 2018, our 25th year of business, we will be expanding and relocating to new, multi-million pound purpose built facilities in Hertfordshire.

To complement our existing highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce, our relocation will create a number of employment opportunities across technical, specialist and commercial functions.

Should you be interested in joining our team and playing a part in our exciting future, we would like to hear from you. Please send a current CV and covering email to: careers@nicholasmee.co.uk

www.nicholasmee.co.uk

www.nicholasmee.co.uk/careers

Telephone: 0208 741 8822

Email: info@nicholasmee.co.uk

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