In 1963, a single photoshoot for From Russia With Love immortalised Bond’s elegance - Sinclair tailoring, Walther pistol, and monogrammed cufflinks defining cinematic style forever.
When From Russia With Love premiered in 1963, the world was still getting acquainted with James Bond. Dr. No had introduced the character, but it was the promotional photography for his second outing that crystallised his image - the suave, lethal modern gentleman who would shape men’s style for decades to come. The images, became iconic: Sean Connery, coolly poised with a Walther pistol in hand, wearing a dinner suit cut to perfection by Anthony Sinclair.
James Bond's image crystallised in the promotional shoot for From Russia With Love (1963).
Credit: Collection Christophel
Sinclair’s Midnight Blue Shawl Collar Dinner Suit was more than costume - it was character. The subtle hue, darker than black under artificial light, gave Bond a sophisticated silhouette on camera, while the soft shawl lapel hinted at relaxed confidence rather than formality. This was tailoring that embodied the philosophy that Sinclair himself called “comfortable elegance.”
The union of danger and refinement
Credit: Christophel
Beyond the tailoring, the shoot’s meticulous details helped define Bond’s visual language. The Walther pistol, held with casual mastery, symbolised the union of danger and refinement. Yet it was the oval cufflinks, discreetly engraved with the initials J.B., that added the final touch — a subtle nod to identity and sophistication.
J.B monogrammed cufflinks
Credit: Christophel
Those cufflinks have now been faithfully reimagined as part of Anthony Sinclair's second collaboration with Deakin & Francis, following the acclaimed reproduction of the engine-turned cufflinks worn in Dr. No and later Goldfinger. Available in 18ct gold or sterling silver, the new editions can be monogrammed with the wearer’s own initials - allowing admirers of Bond’s impeccable taste to add a touch of cinematic history to their own attire.
Put your own mark on Bond style with Anthony SInclair X Deakin & Francis. Click here to view product.
Credit: Anthony Sinclair
What began as a promotional image for From Russia With Love became, in essence, the blueprint for the Bond aesthetic. The balance of precision tailoring, minimal ornamentation, and quiet luxury continues to define what it means to dress with purpose. Six decades on, that single shoot remains one of the most enduring style moments in film history - a testament to the power of craftsmanship, composition, and cultural imagination.