The Legacy of Sir Roger Moore: From Bond to Icon
'Shaken Not Stirred' by Peter Ruck, signed by Sir Roger Moore
All Images Courtesy of Bonhams
Explore the enduring legacy of Sir Roger Moore, renowned for his iconic portrayal of James Bond and his unmatched influence on film, fashion, and British cool. Delve into his 007 tailoring style, his early modelling career, and the impact he made on the world of cinema
A stainless steel automatic triple calendar chronograph Omega Speedmaster Automatic MK40 1995
'A View To A Kill' 1985 James Bond film poster, Eon Productions, international one sheet 27in x 40in
Sir Roger Moore, the dashing English actor whose suave portrayal of James Bond left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, is remembered not only for his seven iconic 007 films but also as a true style symbol and a genuine British cool icon. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of his first Bond appearance, a dedicated sale is set to offer a glimpse into his legendary life, showcasing his personal effects that echo an era of black tie, fast cars, and shaken Martinis.
Roger Moore's association with the James Bond franchise began in 1973 with "Live and Let Die" and continued through until 1985's "A View to a Kill," making him the actor who donned the iconic tuxedo and Walther PPK more times than any other in the Eon Productions series. But Moore's influence extended far beyond the silver screen.
Prior to Moore's illustrious acting career in the early 1950s, he worked as a model, featuring in print advertisements in the UK for knitwear and a wide range of other products, earning him the nickname "The Big Knit." This early career as a model certainly shaped his sense of style and sophistication, ultimately contributing to his iconic portrayal of James Bond.
Before he ever uttered the famous line, "My name is Bond, James Bond," Roger Moore had already established himself as a leading man in the British mystery thriller series "The Saint" from 1962 to 1969. His portrayal of Simon Templar not only charmed audiences but also set the stage for his transition into the role of James Bond. Moore's sophisticated and witty style as Templar was a precursor to the Bond persona he would later embody, complete with the raised eyebrow that became his signature gesture. It was a persona that stood out in the company of other Bond actors like Sean Connery and George Lazenby.
"The Saint" series, which ran for six seasons and included 118 episodes, propelled Moore to international stardom, solidifying his position as a British style icon. His journey didn't stop there; he was lured by Lew Grade to star alongside Tony Curtis in "The Persuaders!" This show followed the escapades of two millionaire playboys, and Moore's participation in it earned him the unprecedented sum of £1 million for a single series, establishing him as the highest-paid television actor globally. While Moore and Curtis may not have been the best of friends off-screen, their on-screen chemistry was palpable, and Moore's portrayal as the playboy adventurer further cemented his status as a cultural icon.
Sean Connery, the original James Bond, set the standard for the character with his portrayal in the early 1960s. His rugged charm and magnetic presence defined the role, making him an iconic figure. After Connery's initial run, George Lazenby took on the role in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (1969). Lazenby's portrayal, though brief, added depth to the character, showing Bond's more vulnerable side as he falls in love and marries. However, Lazenby's tenure was short-lived, and Connery returned in "Diamonds Are Forever" (1971).
With Connery's return, Roger Moore didn't initially consider taking on the role. Only after Connery made it clear that he was done with Bond did Moore emerge as a contender. In August 1972, Moore accepted producer Albert Broccoli's offer to become James Bond, making significant adjustments such as cutting his hair and losing weight for the role.
A pair of Sir Roger Moore's vintage sporting sunglasses
Roger Moore's Douglas Hayward double-breasted mohair dinner suit from 'A View To A Kill' 1985
A Corgi Toys model of The Saint's car Volvo P1800
'The Persuaders!' production documents from early 1970s
Moore's Bond films, including "Live and Let Die," "The Man with the Golden Gun," "The Spy Who Loved Me," and "A View to a Kill," showcased a different interpretation of the character compared to Connery and Lazenby. Moore's Bond was a seasoned, debonair playboy who used humour and wit to navigate the world of espionage. He was known for his quick quips and an array of clever gadgets, a style tailored to the evolving tastes of the 1970s.
Moore's Bond was not a cold-blooded killer but a charming secret agent who had a penchant for witty one-liners. He once described his approach to the character by saying, "My personality is different from previous Bonds. I'm not that cold-blooded-killer type. Which is why I play it mostly for laughs." This unique approach endeared Moore to audiences, making him one of the most beloved Bond actors in the franchise's history.
As Francis Blagburn of The Telegraph aptly noted, the raised eyebrow, a signature move perfected by Moore as Simon Templar, is the hardest facial gesture to master in a gentleman's arsenal. Moore's portrayal as Templar and Bond demonstrated his mastery of this subtle but powerful expression.
Moore's tenure as 007 was marked not only by his charismatic performance but also by his impeccable tailoring. His suits, often tailored by the legendary Savile Row tailor, Dougie Hayward, became as much a part of the Bond character as the shaken Martinis. Hayward was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create suits that perfectly complemented Moore's Bond persona. Moore's Bond was the epitome of sartorial elegance, and his tailor, Dougie Hayward, played an integral role in crafting the character's distinct look.
As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of Roger Moore's debut as James Bond, we pay tribute not only to his remarkable contributions to cinema but also to his legacy as a style icon, a humorist, and a philanthropist.
The upcoming sale of his personal effects offers a unique opportunity for fans to own a piece of the legend that was Sir Roger Moore, a man who forever changed the perception of the iconic secret agent. Black tie, fast cars, and shaken Martinis will forever be synonymous with the incomparable Roger Moore, and his unique portrayal adds a fascinating layer to the legacy of James Bond.
To own a piece of the legend that was Sir Roger Moore, a man who forever changed the perception of the iconic secret agent. Black tie, fast cars, and shaken Martinis will forever be synonymous with the incomparable Roger Moore, and his unique portrayal, coupled with his immaculate tailoring, adds a fascinating layer to the legacy of James Bond.
James Bond (007) memorabilia enjoys enduring popularity among collectors and fans alike. The James Bond series, created by author Ian Fleming, has left an indelible mark in the world of literature and film, captivating audiences for decades.
Original movie posters, sought-after props, wardrobe pieces worn by the actors who portrayed James Bond, and various toys and collectibles are highly sought after. First editions of Ian Fleming's James Bond novels are particularly treasured by book collectors.
However, the crown jewel of James Bond memorabilia remains the 1965 Aston Martin DB5, famously driven by Sean Connery in "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball." This iconic car, equipped with Bond's ingenious gadgets, was sold at auction for an astonishing $6.4 million in 2019 by RM Sotheby’s, setting a record as one of the most expensive film prop cars ever sold.
“The enduring allure of James Bond memorabilia is a testament to the timeless charm of the franchise and its legendary status in the world of cinema collectibles”
A film programme for The Spy Who Loved Me signed by Sir Roger Moore 1977