James Bond has remained one of the most enduring names across multiple forms of media, from novels to video games and, of course, films. With the 25th film due out in 2019, rumors have been flying in regards to who will direct the project, especially after Sam Mendes (who directed both Skyfall and Spectre) declared he will not be returning to the franchise.
Christopher Nolan (Inception, The Dark Knight) had been rumored to be joining the James Bond production, but he shot down those rumors in an interview with BBC Radio 4.
“I won’t be the man,” he said. “No, categorically. I think every time they hire a new director, I’m rumored to be doing it… Sam Mendes has done a terrific job the last couple of films, so they don’t particularly need me. But I’ve always been inspired by the films and would love to do one someday.”
Though it’ll likely still be some time before details are confirmed for the upcoming film, Bond fans can currently get their hands on a number of high-quality collectibles spanning the history of the franchise over at Hake’s current auction.
Of particular note is a James Bond Secret Agent 007 Shooting Attaché Case dating to 1965, in complete and unused condition. The bos art includes an image of Sean Connery as Bond, holding the gun from this set. There is some light wear on the box itself, but it retains its shape and is free of splits. This set is rarely found complete, let alone with its original box and in such good condition; as one of the best and most popular Bond toys from the 1960s, this is one of the most sought-after items for collectors.
Also of note for early Bond fans is a complete set of eight 11x14” lobby cards for the original American release of Dr. No. Connery is pictures on all of the cards in the set, along with the original Bond girl Honey Rider in five of them. Cards are free of pin holes and show just light wear.
The Bond films were no stranger to merchandise, and that included dolls and action figures as well. Hake’s currently has a trenchcoat outfit for the rare Cecil Coleman 11-1/2” English doll, still in the packaging. The contents are sealed on the inner card and contain a hat, coat, hanger, pistol with holster and an umbrella. These variety outfits are often difficult to find and can be confused with the Gilbert outfits.
And speaking of those Gilbert outfits, Hake’s also has a Gilbert store display wire rack that was made specifically for their James Bond Action Toys. The steel frame rack has four hangers designed to hold and display Gilbert carded action Toys, and comes with four blister-carded Action Sets as well. This is the first time this piece has ever been offered in Hake’s 51 years.
“The James Bond items featured in this auction are on the top of most collectors lists,” Hake’s Production Manager and resident Bond expert Todd Sheffer said. “All the offered items are scarce and very difficult to find especially in these boxed and complete conditions. The boxed Attaché Case is one of the nicest we’ve ever had the pleasure to offer at auction.”
The full lineup of Bond items can be found at the Hake’s website. Interested parties are encouraged to bid soon, as the auction will be closing on March 15, 2018.