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Bentley Celebrates 100 Years with Exclusive Centenary Book
Bentley is making a grand statement for its 100th anniversary by unveiling what it describes as "the heaviest book ever produced telling the story of an automotive brand." Titled the Bentley Centenary Opus, this luxurious coffee table book chronicles the illustrious history of one of Britain’s most esteemed automotive brands.
The Centenary Opus comes in several editions, with the rarest being the 100 Carat Edition, priced at a staggering £200,000 (approximately $256,019 at current exchange rates). This raises an interesting question: when does a book cease to be a book and become just a hefty object?
As an avid book lover, the Bentley Centenary Opus instantly captures my interest, particularly given its rich visuals. This extensive tome aims to narrate Bentley’s journey in nine chapters, covering everything from its 1920s triumphs at Le Mans to its most elusive models and contemporary achievements. Ralph Lauren has penned the introduction, while current Bentley CEO Adrian Hallmark analyzes the brand’s future in a concluding chapter. Publisher Opus has even secured previously unseen images for this book, promising a captivating experience for readers.
However, the focus on exclusivity and personal vanity seems to overshadow the book’s literary value. At a hefty 66 pounds—equivalent to the weight of a third grader—it’s unlikely this tome will find its way into any well-stocked libraries anytime soon. Though The Drive previously indicated that a more affordable, smaller version known as the Crewe Edition would be available, it’s hard to imagine that these massive editions will serve a functional purpose as traditional books. Their sheer weight may confine them to coffee tables and static displays, making page-flipping a workout for anyone who wishes to jump to a specific section.
Bentley has indeed produced a book of monumental size, as claimed in its press release. While many might revel in the sheer scale, the notion of a 100 Carat Edition adorned with 100 carats of diamonds is a stark departure from the traditional ideals of books, which have historically served to democratize knowledge. Instead, it appears to cater to the wealthy elite who can afford to pay their way into the publication.
The special editions come with customizable elements, starting at $3,840.30 for the limited 500-copy Centenary Edition. The prices escalate to $15,955.44 for a one-of-100 Mulliner Edition and reach a pinnacle at $256,019 for the 100 Carat Edition, of which only seven will be produced; one for each continent.
Each Centenary Opus will be meticulously hand-bound in England using premium leather, similar to the interiors found in Bentley vehicles. Owners can personalize their editions with their choice of leather color as well as include their names embossed in gold or silver on the cover. Additionally, buyers of the Mulliner Edition have the unique opportunity to include professional photographs of their own Bentleys in their books.
Among the many exclusive features, the Mulliner Edition includes a remarkable historical artifact: a piece of the left front Michelin tire from the Bentley Speed 8 that competed in the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans. This piece will be embedded within the inside cover of its clamshell case.
For the Mulliner Edition, Bentley utilized the world’s largest Polaroid camera to create stunning 20-inch by 24-inch portraits of ten iconic models. Additionally, 56 watercolor portraits printed on silk paper were commissioned specifically for this edition.
The ultimate symbol of opulence is undoubtedly the 100 Carat Edition, which will be adorned with diamonds and offer a choice of white gold or platinum for its Wings badge. Only seven copies are planned for production.
While it’s understandable that Bentley seeks to celebrate its legacy, offering a diamond-encrusted book raises ethical questions about the commodification of literature. This edition seems more aimed at exploiting wealth rather than valuing the shared, enriching experiences that books traditionally provide.
For those interested, the diamond-studded Centenary Opus is available for purchase through Bentley’s channels, although potential buyers might contemplate investing in education, philanthropy, or even a new Bentley instead.
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