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ViewsFromMark Fuelled by coffee, driven by electricity, taker of still & moving images, usually behind a camera. Photographer / Filmmaker. Canon 5D MKIII & Canon A1

OPERATION: ROYALE | ONE OF THE MOMENTS I’LL NEVER FORGET… Of all the incredible memories I took away from OPERATION: ROY...
16/09/2026

OPERATION: ROYALE | ONE OF THE MOMENTS I’LL NEVER FORGET…

Of all the incredible memories I took away from OPERATION: ROYALE, there is one seemingly small moment that I keep finding myself thinking back to.

After Martin Campbell had introduced Casino Royale and the film began, I was sitting to the side by the entrance to the screening room with Phil, looking across at Martin, David Arnold, Darwin Shaw and our other VIP guests as those opening sequences unfolded on the big screen.

And I just remember smiling.

Here were people who had actually helped create the film, completely engrossed in watching it again. Heads nodding along to the music and the beats of the movie, popcorn in hand, smiles on their faces, enjoying every second.

Watching their reactions through the black-and-white opening, Daniel Craig’s first gun barrel, Chris Cornell and David Arnold’s You Know My Name, and then that incredible parkour chase was such a special sight.

What made it even better was that Martin had originally intended to stay for only the first ten minutes or so before making a discreet exit for lunch...

… Instead, he stayed for every single minute!

He was enjoying seeing Casino Royale back on the big screen and experiencing the brand-new print so much that he simply kept watching.

There were obviously much bigger moments throughout OPERATION: ROYALE, but sometimes it is the quiet, unexpected ones that stay with you.

Sitting there and watching Martin, David, Darwin and our guests completely absorbed in a film they each have their own connection to, surrounded by an audience of Bond fans equally captivated by what was happening on screen, is a sight and a memory I think I’ll treasure forever.

Sometimes you just have to sit back, take it all in and think… this is pretty special.

OPERATION: ROYALE - NINE MONTHS IN THE MAKING… ONE VERY SPECIAL DAY48 hours on, it is good to finally stop for a moment ...
14/09/2026

OPERATION: ROYALE - NINE MONTHS IN THE MAKING… ONE VERY SPECIAL DAY

48 hours on, it is good to finally stop for a moment and reflect on what was a truly special, unique and one-off event with OPERATION: ROYALE.

It has been wonderful to hear the feedback from those who joined us and to see the reaction continuing online. Seeing so many fantastic photos, memories and messages being shared has meant an enormous amount.

What can I say about Martin Campbell? He was simply wonderful. Generous with his time, full of incredible stories from throughout his career and genuinely delighted to meet everyone. Most importantly, Martin himself absolutely loved the day and the experience that had been created around celebrating his extraordinary career.

For me personally, Saturday represented the culmination of nine months of work since I first spoke with EON and started putting the pieces together back in late December 2025.

It hasn’t been a straightforward journey. There have been ups and downs, last-minute challenges and more than a few sleepless nights. At one point, the entire concept for the event was completely overhauled and redesigned in around three hours when it became clear the timeline for my original plan would no longer work.

To see what eventually emerged from all of that come together on Saturday, and to see people enjoying it in the way that they did, is something I find quite difficult to put into words.

After a whirlwind and tiring few days, there will be plenty more photographs, stories and content to share over the coming weeks.

For now, though, I am immensely grateful to Martin, our special guests, the 007GB board who once again pulled out all the stops, and every single person who joined us on Saturday and helped make OPERATION: ROYALE such a memorable occasion.

We are finalising the fundraising total, but the generosity shown in support of UNICEF was extraordinary.

Thank you to everyone who played a part in making Saturday a day that I know will live long in my memory, and hopefully in the memories of everyone who was there.

Photos by Harry Richards Photography

FROM ZOOM CALLS TO LONDON… EIGHT MONTHS IN THE MAKING - OPERATION: ROYALEIt’s quite something to think that very soon we...
23/08/2026

FROM ZOOM CALLS TO LONDON… EIGHT MONTHS IN THE MAKING - OPERATION: ROYALE

It’s quite something to think that very soon we’ll be swapping Zoom calls discussing OPERATION: ROYALE for having Martin Campbell with us in person in London, after what has now been more than eight months of discussions, planning and work behind the scenes.

On Saturday 12th September, Martin will join us at Olympic Studios in London for what promises to be a truly special, one-off event celebrating 20 years of Casino Royale and his extraordinary contribution to James Bond and cinema.

Never in a million years did I imagine I’d have the opportunity to work on an event like this, honouring the director behind my very first cinematic Bond experience, GoldenEye. To now be honouring a filmmaker who not only successfully introduced Pierce Brosnan as James Bond, but then, eleven years later, did it all over again with Daniel Craig in Casino Royale, giving us two of the most celebrated films in the franchise, feels incredibly special.

I can’t wait to hear the questions our attendees have for Martin and the stories and memories he’ll share. On a personal level, I’m particularly looking forward to having the opportunity to ask him about two of my favourite scenes: Bond meeting Q in his workshop in GoldenEye and Bond comforting Vesper in the shower following the stairwell fight in Casino Royale. Two very different moments from two very different Bond films, both directed by the man attendees will soon have the privilege of hearing from in person in London.

From our In Conversation with Martin Campbell and audience Q&A, to presenting Martin with the 007GB Bond & Beyond Lifetime Achievement Award, before he personally introduces our 20th anniversary screening of Casino Royale and joins us for the reception afterwards, it’s going to be quite a day!

After all the conversations and preparation that have gone into making OPERATION: ROYALE happen, I’m incredibly excited that we’re now so close to finally coming together in person and sharing everything we’ve been working towards with those attending.

MEETING THE NEW JAMES BOND OF 007 FIRST LIGHT | PATRICK GIBSONAt MCM Birmingham Comic Con, I had the pleasure of meeting...
09/08/2026

MEETING THE NEW JAMES BOND OF 007 FIRST LIGHT | PATRICK GIBSON

At MCM Birmingham Comic Con, I had the pleasure of meeting Patrick Gibson, the actor behind the latest incarnation of James Bond in 007 First Light.

Patrick couldn’t have been warmer, more approachable or friendlier. He gave every fan plenty of time to chat, answer their questions and share stories, and at no point did anyone feel rushed. It was a genuinely lovely experience.

One of the first things Patrick noticed when we met was the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition on my wrist, the very watch inspired by 007 First Light. (Granted, due to its size, it is hard to miss!) That led to a rather interesting conversation, and I was genuinely surprised to discover that Patrick doesn’t currently have one of his own!

We also had the chance to talk about 007 First Light, as well as what it feels like now that the game is finally out in the world and being enjoyed by Bond fans around the globe.

We also spoke about 007GB, what we do, our events and our commitment to celebrating the world of Bond and raising funds for good causes. Patrick was genuinely interested in learning more about the club, and we’d absolutely love to welcome him to a future 007GB event. Contact details were given, so… watch this space!

It was a real pleasure meeting Patrick and hearing a little more about the man behind the newest 007. I, for one, am looking forward to seeing where his Bond journey takes him next.

Wearing:
OMEGA 007 First Light Seamaster
Sunspel Riviera Midweight V‑neck T‑shirt
CONNOLLY Giubbino Jacket

#007

Photos 3 and 4 courtesy of Bond In Yorkshire

OMEGA, 007 & THE FINAL SURPRISEThere was one final surprise waiting for me during what had already become an unforgettab...
01/08/2026

OMEGA, 007 & THE FINAL SURPRISE

There was one final surprise waiting for me during what had already become an unforgettable visit to OMEGA HQ.

Following an exceptional product presentation by the wonderful boutique team, including Sonia, whom it was such a pleasure to see again after my previous visit, one final tray was brought into the room. Resting on it was a presentation box that has become instantly recognisable to so many Bond and OMEGA enthusiasts since the release of the 007 First Light Seamaster.

As the tray was placed in front of me, I simply heard the words:

“Mr. Aeschlimann has arranged this for you.”

The box was opened to reveal the extraordinary 007 First Light Seamaster Chronograph.

To be given the opportunity to acquire my very own example at the home of OMEGA is something I will never forget. With this remarkable timepiece sold out around the world and subject to extensive waiting lists, I know what a truly special opportunity it was, and it is certainly not something I take for granted.

The moment I tried it on, I fell in love with it all over again, just as I had at its launch event in Covent Garden.

This incredible watch now becomes the seventh OMEGA timepiece in my personal collection… my own little “007” milestone, which somehow feels wonderfully fitting.

None of this would have been possible without the thoughtfulness of Raynald, his wonderful assistant Karin, and the outstanding team at the OMEGA HQ Boutique. Their warmth, professionalism and genuine passion made the entire experience every bit as memorable as the watch itself, and it was especially lovely to be looked after once again by Sonia, who remembered me from my previous visit.

My heartfelt thanks to Raynald, Karin, Sonia and everyone at OMEGA for making my birthday visit one I will cherish forever.

This watch will always be far more than another addition to my collection.

Every time I wear it, it will remind me of this unforgettable trip, the friendships I’ve been fortunate enough to make, and a birthday celebration that exceeded anything I could ever have imagined.

#007

OMEGA, 007 & A 40TH BIRTHDAY SURPRISE FROM THE CEOAmong the many wonderful memories from my recent visit to OMEGA HQ wer...
22/07/2026

OMEGA, 007 & A 40TH BIRTHDAY SURPRISE FROM THE CEO

Among the many wonderful memories from my recent visit to OMEGA HQ were several incredibly thoughtful gifts. This post features two of them.

Towards the end of what had been a wonderful lunch in his private dining room, OMEGA President & CEO, Raynald Aeschlimann, smiled and said they had something for me. Moments later, I was presented with a familiar red OMEGA bag containing a birthday gift I never could have expected.

Inside was a pair of OMEGA’s beautiful 007 Edition cufflinks, inspired by the iconic Seamaster worn by James Bond in Quantum of Solace. Crafted in stainless steel with black engraved detailing and featuring stems engraved with the famous 007 logo, they perfectly unite two things that have meant so much to me over the years: James Bond and OMEGA.

To say I was surprised would be an understatement. More than the gift itself, it was the thought and generosity behind such a personal gesture from Raynald that touched me so deeply. They are something I will treasure for many years to come, and I look forward to wearing them proudly at future Bond events.

The generosity didn’t end there.

Following a fantastic product presentation in the OMEGA HQ boutique, the wonderful boutique team also presented me with a beautifully crafted OMEGA leather valet tray. It is both elegant and practical, the perfect place to rest a watch, cufflinks or other treasured pieces, whether at home or whilst travelling. It was another completely unexpected gesture that reflected the incredible warmth, hospitality and thoughtfulness shown throughout my visit.

These are two of the wonderful mementoes I was fortunate enough to bring home from OMEGA HQ.

There was however, one more final surprise from my visit.

It deserves a post entirely of its own.

Stay tuned.

My sincere thanks once again to Raynald, and to the wonderful team at the OMEGA HQ Boutique.

#007

MEETING THE NEW JAMES BONDIt all began with a mysterious message requesting my presence at a top-secret location in Lond...
22/06/2026

MEETING THE NEW JAMES BOND

It all began with a mysterious message requesting my presence at a top-secret location in London on what turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year.

While some of the other invited guests were put through their paces on a secret mission across the capital, my instructions were, thankfully, a little simpler: a date, a time and a location where I would meet a contact who would facilitate a highly confidential meeting.

By the time I arrived and discovered that the libations on offer included some rather sublime Vesper martinis, I had a feeling I was in for something very Bond-related indeed.

What followed was the opportunity to sit down with Isaac Rouse and Charlotte McBurney, the two talented young actors who have today been announced as taking on the roles of James Bond and Wilder Lawless in Big Finish Productions and Ian Fleming Publications’ full-cast audio adaptation of Charlie Higson’s Young Bond: SilverFin.

Isaac, whose previous work includes The Crown, Get Even, Genius and Sam Mendes’ stage adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, steps into the role of the young Bond, portraying the teenage adventures that first introduced readers to Ian Fleming’s iconic spy.

Alongside him is Charlotte McBurney, known for her acclaimed voice work in A Plague Tale and Final Fantasy XVI, who takes on the role of Wilder Lawless – Bond’s spirited, fearless and fiercely independent ally.

Spending time with both Isaac and Charlotte was an absolute pleasure. They were thoughtful, engaging and clearly passionate about bringing these much-loved characters to life, and the chemistry between them was immediately apparent.

I was fortunate enough to conduct an exclusive interview with both actors ahead of today’s casting announcement, discussing their auditions, stepping into these iconic roles and what audiences can expect from Young Bond: SilverFin.

Stay tuned… my full interview with these incredible young actors will be coming soon.

I was fortunate enough to conduct an exclusive interview with both actors ahead of today’s casting announcement, discussing their auditions, stepping into these iconic roles and what audiences can ex

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCIANA PALUZZI | FROM LOS ANGELES WITH LOVEWishing the wonderful Luciana Paluzzi a very happy birthday!O...
10/06/2026

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCIANA PALUZZI | FROM LOS ANGELES WITH LOVE

Wishing the wonderful Luciana Paluzzi a very happy birthday!

On her special day, it’s lovely to be reminded of time spent together in Los Angeles earlier this year. This photograph was taken during a very special occasion shared with friends from , and

For Bond fans, Luciana will forever be remembered as Fiona Volpe in Thunderball (1965), one of the series’ most iconic and memorable villains. Intelligent, fearless and utterly captivating, Fiona set the standard for the Bond femme fatale and remains one of the franchise’s greatest characters more than sixty years later.

In 2024, 007GB was honoured to present Luciana with our Bond & Beyond Lifetime Achievement Award at Operation: Concorde, recognising her outstanding contribution to the world of James Bond and her remarkable career on screen.

Happy Birthday, Luciana. Thank you for your friendship, generosity and for the joy you continue to bring to Bond fans around the world.

007GB

OMEGA x 007 FIRST LIGHT | HANDS-ON REVIEW & INITIAL THOUGHTSMy latest video is now live on YouTube, where I take a close...
24/05/2026

OMEGA x 007 FIRST LIGHT | HANDS-ON REVIEW & INITIAL THOUGHTS

My latest video is now live on YouTube, where I take a closer hands-on look at the new Seamaster Diver 300M Chronograph inspired by the forthcoming 007 First Light video game.

This is the first Bond Diver to feature a chronograph movement and, at 44 mm on a NATO strap and 17.4 mm deep, it’s certainly one of the boldest and most substantial Bond watches OMEGA has ever produced.

In the video, I take a detailed look at the watch up close, the presentation box and how the watch wears in different lighting conditions.

For the full hands-on impressions and detailed look at the watch, the full video is now live on my YouTube channel via the link in my bio.

What are your thoughts on the new “007 First Light” Seamaster? Too large for a Bond watch, or exactly the kind of bold modern direction you’d want to see from OMEGA?



SUNSPEL CASINO ROYALE POLO, REIMAGINED | LIMITED EDITION SEA ISLAND COTTON RIVIERA POLOI’m really loving the latest offe...
22/05/2026

SUNSPEL CASINO ROYALE POLO, REIMAGINED | LIMITED EDITION SEA ISLAND COTTON RIVIERA POLO

I’m really loving the latest offering from , the Limited Edition Sea Island Cotton Riviera Polo in Midnight Navy.

In the latest video on my YouTube channel, I’m taking a closer look at this special release, created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Casino Royale.

Originally adapted for Daniel Craig’s debut as James Bond in 2006, the Riviera Polo has become one of the most iconic pieces associated with the modern Bond era, and this latest incarnation elevates the design even further through the use of Sea Island cotton, regarded as one of the finest and rarest cotton fibres in the world.

Crafted in the same slim silhouette created for Casino Royale, the polo retains the understated elegance and effortless wearability that made the original such a standout piece, whilst adding an extra level of softness, breathability and luxury.

This really does feel like a special release from Sunspel and a thoughtful way to mark two decades since Casino Royale introduced audiences to Daniel Craig’s Bond.

Head over to my YouTube channel (Link in bio) for the full unboxing and review.

What do you think of this latest incarnation of the Riviera Polo? And did you manage to pick one up?

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