Bonhams seems to be on a mission to raid the world's most famous closets at the moment, with big sales of jackets worn by cinema legend Michael Caine in 1971's iconic Get Carter and James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
Fleming's naval jacket sold earlier this week, on November 22. It easily surpassed Bonhams' £5,000-7,000 pre-sale estimate to bring £13,750, including buyer's premium.
 James Bond author Ian Fleming worn this coat as he witness the |
The jacket has plenty of history behind it, having been worn by Fleming throughout World War II while the character of James Bond '007' was first taking shape in his mind. The author was also wearing it as he observed the ill-fated Dieppe Raid in 1942.
And from one famous coat to another... Bonhams has announced that its upcoming Entertainment Memorabilia sale on December 15 will offer Michael Caine's trench coat from Get Carter.
The 1971 film, in which Caine plays gangster Jack Carter who travels to Newcastle to investigate his brother's mysterious death, remains a perennial favourite among the iconic British films of the '60s and '70s. Caine wears the double-breasted mac throughout the film.
Jack Carter's coat is estimated at just £3,500-4,500. Yet, because it contributes so much to the films iconography and legacy, we wouldn't be surprised if it sells for considerably more.
The trench coat is made of heavy waxed cotton, with a belt and buckles on its sleeves.
 Michael Caine is Jack Carter... And wore this trench coat throughout |
It has been consigned by Johnny Morris, Caine's stunt double for the film. His letter of provenance states that Michael Caine wore this trench coat, which was one of two. This particular one was used for fight sequences.
Celebrity clothing has emerged as one of the strongest markets throughout 2011.
Big auctions including the World Record-breaking $5.6m sale of Marilyn Monroe's Seven Year Itch Dress. While the suit and shirt worn by star Pierce Brosnan in 1995's classic Bond film Goldeneye, which we had in stock here a Paul Fraser Collectibles, is now no longer available.
Other examples we have in stock include this black velvet cocktail dress owned and worn by the model and actress Dorothy Stratten.
Stratten's amazing life was in many ways overshadowed by her death in 1980, when she was murdered by her estranged husband Paul Snider.
Celebrity clothes have sold for millions on the auction block - but great lower priced examples currently for sale include this £950 Dorothy Stratten dress
We have the Stratten dress for sale priced at just £950. Proof that, although examples like Ian Fleming's naval coat have sold for five figure sums, the strong and booming celebrity clothing markets are open to all.
Watch this space for more news on Bonhams's sale of the Get Carter trench coat.
