INTRODUCTION

DB4GTZ 1960 SPADA EDITION

A Gentleman Express on the Wrist

Regarded as one of the most beautiful British sports cars, the Aston Martin DB4GTZ designed by Ercole Spada in 1960 inspired this elegant edition of timepieces including original material of “2VEV” – the most prominent of only 19 existing DB4GTZ.

The edition is limited to 370 pieces.

DESIGN

The DB4GTZ 1960 Spada Edition was inspired by the sophsticated, but aggressive elegance and flowing lines of the iconic DB4GTZ. Not only does each edition timepiece feature the signature of legendary designer Ercole Spada, but also numerous details inspired by the car’s design such as the typical three-spoke Nardi steering wheel, the wheel spinners, the inimitable DB4GTZ silhouette, the firing order of the engine and of course the Union Jack on the caseback.

A British Icon fit for the wrist of a true Gentleman…

ORIGINAL DB4GTZ MATERIAL

Each edition timepiece includes original material of the most famous DB4GTZ chassis #0183/R (R stands for right-hand drive), also known as “2VEV”. The parts were supplied by the owners of the car and subsequently integrated into the watch cases of the edition, so that each of the numbered edition watches includes the DNA of the legendary “2VEV”.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

 

Edition Name: DB4GTZ 1960 Spada Edition

Case: 43mm, Stainless Steel incl. Scalfaro Ceramic DNA Intarsia and original material of DB4GTZ “2VEV” (chassis #0183/R), bi-directional inner turning Bezel, 100m/330ft Water-Resistance

Movement: ADK Swiss chronograph Calibre 149 BiCompax, mechanical Swiss Chronograph with automatic winding mechanism, skeletonized rotor

Features: Chronograph, small seconds, date

Crystal: Sapphire Crystal (Front and Caseback)

Strap: British Racing Green Horween Shell Cordovan Leather Strap, Folding Buckle

Edition Limitation: 370 Pieces

Price: Euro 8.950,-

TESTIMONIALS

M.W., C.&S.C.: What a great looking watch which perfectly celebrates 2VEV.

CONTACT - YES, I WANT ONE...

I would like to acquire one of these extraordinary DB4GTZ 1960 Spada Edition Timepieces.

Please, get in touch with me to discuss the details and facilitate my purchase.

One of our Scalfaro VIP Concierges will get in touch with you after receipt of your message.

Thank you for your interest.

SCALFARO INTERNATIONAL

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Phone: +49 (0) 72 34 94 99 620, Fax: +49 (0) 72 34 54 73

Web: www.scalfaro.com, Email: info@scalfaro.com

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

SCALFARO DB4GTZ 1960 SPADA WATCH EDITION

Limited Edition of Mechanical Wristwatches commemorating the iconic DB4GTZ Sports Car and its legendary Designer Ercole Spada

SUMMARY:

Inspired by one of the world’s most fascinating sports cars – the iconic Aston Martin DB4GTZ designed by Ercole Spada in 1960 – watch manufacture SCALFARO created the limited DB4GTZ 1960 SPADA EDITION of mechanical Swiss timepieces featuring original material from the most famous DB4GTZ – the ex-Essex Racing Stable chassis no. 0183/R registered 2 VEV. True to the motto of “Simplicity is Beauty” these timepieces radiate with timeless elegance, powerful clear lines and a touch of Britishness. This extraordinary edition was realized in close collaboration with the owners of “2 VEV” who also supplied genuine parts of their legendary DB4GTZ. These parts were subsequently integrated into the watch cases, so that each of the numbered edition watches not only features numerous design elements from the DB4GTZ, but also contains the authentic DNA of this sports car icon and thus a direct link to its fascinating history. The beautiful silhouette of the car as well as the signature of designer Ercole Spada adorn the face of each chronograph and underline the exclusivity of this edition limited to 370 pieces. Further details include: 43mm case diameter, Scalfaro Ceramic DNA Intarsia, finely decorated Swiss mechanical Manufacture La Joux-Perret chronograph movement, off-shape bezel, domed sapphire crystal, see-through case back, inner turning bezel, British Racing Green Horween shell cordovan strap, elegant folding buckle, water-resistant to 100m (330ft).

Each SCALFARO DB4GTZ 1960 SPADA EDITION watch is individually numbered and comes in an exclusive wooden box.

A WORK OF ART

Conceived with great attention to detail, radiating with quality in every aspect from the sophisticated construction of its watch case with its refined surface finishing and the elaborate mechanism of its Swiss automatic movement, each timepiece of this edition is made to last and reflects the passion that lead to the creation of the legendary DB4GTZ sports car.

Manufactured in a rare artisanal process combining traditional crafts as well as modern technology, each timepiece is a unique work of art preserving the DNA of the iconic DB4GTZ.

“IN NATURE, NOTHING IS CREATED, NOTHING IS DESTROYED, EVERYTHING IS TRANSFORMED”

Antoine-Laurent de Lavoisier, 18th Century

At Scalfaro we transform genuine material of iconic objects into technical masterpieces that carry emotions, bring pleasure to people and tell intriguing stories. By skillfully blending history with technological modernity we preserve the legends and achievements of the past and proudly carry their fascination into our modern age.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

INTRODUCTION

Watch manufacturer “SCALFARO – Watches for Enthusiasts” launches a limited edition of mechanical wristwatches paying tribute to the legendary Aston Martin DB4GTZ sports car and its designer Ercole Spada – who created the iconic Zagato version of the DB4GT in 1960.

This extraordinary edition – limited to 370 pieces worldwide – captures the unique allure of the 1960s sports car scene with its sophisticated, but aggressive elegance and flowing lines. It strikes not only with its timeless, powerful design, but also with its fine mechanical movement, flawless quality and a number of intriguing details inspired by the DB4GTZ and designer Ercole Spada: the car’s sumptuous silhouette above the dial, the typical three-spoke Nardi steering wheel and the three-eared spinner in the logs, the inner turning bezel inspired by the car’s instruments, the ignition pattern of the straight-six Tadek Marek-designed engine on the case back, the domed Sapphire crystal inspired by the model’s characteristic bulges on the bonnet… As a special feature, the watch cases contain original material of the most famous of the rare DB4GTZ which was obtained directly from the owners of the ex-Essex Racing Stable chassis 0183/R also affectionately known as “2 VEV”. Designer Ercole Spada’s signature adorns the face of each of the numbered watches and underlines the exclusivity of this limited edition.

 

THE DB4GTZ – THE GENTLEMAN’S EXPRESS

The Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato (short DB4GTZ) is regarded by many as the ultimate Gran Turismo and over the years has attained almost mythical status as a design icon. Only 20 DB4GTZs were built between 1960 and 1963 of which only 19 survived. Each of these cars has a most interesting story to tell, be it the car’s racing career or/and its illustrious owners. The DB4GTZ embodies the essence of British style, Italian aesthetics and engineering mastery – a thoroughbred “Gentleman’s Express”.

True to Aston Martin’s principle of “Racing improves the Breed” the DB4 GTZ was driven by some of the most prominent race drivers of its era incl. Jim Clark, Innes Ireland, Stirling Moss and Roy Salvadori. But racing success did not quite live up to the hopes of John Wyer and David Brown as the DB4GTZ’s main challenges remained weight and power-output – especially compared to the Ferrari 250 GT SWB and later the 250 GTO. But, the DB4GTZ’s beauty, rarity and provenance over the years more than made up for the success it lacked on the racetracks.

 

WATCH CASE FEATURING GENUINE DB4GTZ PARTS

After having worked with high-tech ceramics for years, the SCALFARO team developed the innovative technology of “SCALFARO CERAMIC INTARSIA” integrating high-tech ceramics in its sophisticated stainless steel watch cases. The SCALFARO CERAMIC INTARSIA Technology perfectly unites traditional craftsmanship with the latest technological achievements.

This new technique was used to include design elements as well as the Aqua Verde Caliente (= original color of 2 VEV) color concept into the watch case.

Furthermore, the watch case features the typical three-spoke Nardi steering wheel (incl. blue centre) and the car’s three-eared spinners at 6h and 12h. These little details comprise another highlight of this edition: Thanks to the owners of the most famous DB4GTZ – “2 VEV” the ex-John Ogier Essex Racing Stable chassis #0183/R – the SCALFARO team could obtain genuine DB4GTZ parts which were subsequently integrated into the watch cases. As a result, each watch from this special edition contains genuine “DNA” from DB4GTZ chassis #0183/R “2 VEV” and therefore represents a direct link to the fascinating history of this unique car driven among others by Jim Clark.

The British Racing Green coloured Horween shell cordovan strap with its elegant folding buckle completes the pleasant feel of wearing a design icon and engineering masterpiece on the wrist.

MECHANICAL SWISS MOVEMENT

The SCALFARO DB4GTZ 1960 SPADA EDITION is powered by a finely decorated Swiss mechanical chronograph engine (Scalfaro Swiss Calibre ADK149 BiCompax based on Manufacture La Joux-Perret) visible through the Sapphire crystal of the exhibition case back.

The skillfully engineered automatic winding mechanism is responsible for a steady energy supply reliably fuelling the functions of the movement incl. the TriCompax chronograph.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

Further technical details include: 43mm case diameter, Scalfaro Ceramic DNA Intarsia, finely decorated Swiss mechanical Manufacture La Joux-Perret chronograph movement, off-shape bezel, sapphire crystal, see-through case back, British Racing Green Horween shell cordovan strap, elegant folding buckle, water-resistant to 100m (330ft).

SCALFARO-DB4GTZ1960Spada-Overview-Tech

SCALFARO-DB4GTZ1960Spada-Overview-Design

BACKGROUND INFO & EDITION PARTNERS

BELOW YOU FIND EXTENSIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE PARTNERS & ELEMENTS OF THIS EXTRAORDINARY EDITION:

  • SHORT BIO DESIGNER ERCOLE SPADA
  • SHORT MODEL BIO ASTON MARTIN DB4GT ZAGATO
  • SHORT BIO ASTON MARTIN DB4GT ZAGATO CHASSIS NO. 0183/R “2 VEV”
  • SCALFARO – WATCHES FOR ENTHUSIASTS

SHORT BIO DESIGNER ERCOLE SPADA (born July 26th, 1937 in Busto Arsizio near Milan/Italy):

Ercole Spada – the name translates as “Hercules Sword” – studied Industrial Engineering at Milan’s Instituto Tecnico Feltrinelli. He started his career at Carrozzeria Zagato in February 1960. One of his very first assignments was the Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato project which he began in May 1960 – what an extraordinary start to a great career.

Spada shortened, lightened and smoothed the standard DB4. Especially the captivating rounded rear and dynamic shark-like front add to the dramatic, powerful look of the DB4GTZ. It is also thanks to Ercole Spada that the DB4GTZ is missing the Zagato trademark bulges on the roof, but shows three bulges on the bonnet.

Ercole Spada is regarded as one of the most influential car designers of the 20th century and has created numerous milestones of automotive design. Aside from the ravishing Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato the list of cars designed by Ercole Spada includes Alfa Romeo legends Giulietta SZ, Giulia TZ (= Tubolare Zagato, the TZ lead to the foundation of the Alfa in-house racing department Autodelta), Giulia TZ2, Junior Z and 2600SZ; as well as the OSCA 1600 GTZ, Lancia Flavia Sport, Lancia Delta, Ford GT 70, BMW 5- and  7-series.

Spada successfully implemented the cut tail concept (invented by Swiss aerodynamicist Wunibald Kamm and later called “Kamm-Tail”) into several of his designs (e.g. the Alfa Romeo TZ).

In 1969 Spada left Zagato and became chief designer at Ford’s Italian Ghia design house in 1970.

In 1976 Spada joined BMW as chief stylist and created the E32 7-series (1986-94) and the E34 5-series (1988-96) which were major success stories for BMW.

In 1983 Spada returned to Italy where he first led I.DE.A Institute before joining Zagato again in 1992.

End of 2006 he established the design studio Spadaconcept in Turin together with his son Paulo Spada, specializing in automotive and industrial design.

SHORT MODEL BIO ASTON MARTIN DB4GT ZAGATO:

The DB4GT Zagato (short DB4GTZ) is a thoroughbred GT race car with elegant pedigree uniting beauty, rarity and sporting provenance. Motoring journalist Fred Gregory rightfully called it the “Gentleman’s Express”.

Aston Martin’s DB-Series started in the late-forties, with the DB1. By the end of the 1950s Aston Martin introduced a long-awaited successor to the Frank Feeley-designed DB2 – produced since 1950: the DB4 introduced at the London Motor Show 1958. The styling and body construction of the entirely newly-developed DB4 was done by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan. The DB4 was followed by the DB4GT in 1959 in a mission to create a competitive more aerodynamic version – the DB4GT was lighter and shorter than the DB4.

At the 1960 London Motor Show Aston Martin finally introduced the sublime DB4GTZ with lighter Zagato bodywork designed by Ercole Spada. The initial spark to create the DB4GT Zagato was given by David Brown and John Wyer (a major force in the success of the Ford GT40 in the second half of the 60s) who were looking to form a car to beat the Ferraris at Le Mans in 1961.

Right after Zagato was handed over the job, Ercole Spada – then aged only 23 – was assigned with this mission in May 1960 and set out to improve the aerodynamics of the existing DB4GT. He went on to create a sports car icon which became one of the most intensely admired cars ever attaining almost mythical status over the years. The DB4GTZ’s sumptuous shape, harmonious proportions and flowing lines were widely acclaimed as stunningly beautiful bringing together performance and elegance – a true Grand Touring motor car. Ercole Spada compared the car’s lines to the tension, aggression and dynamism of a cat of prey about to jump.

The DB4GTZ featured a sleeker body and close-to perfect proportions combined with an increase in power and a decrease in weight due to the use of numerous aluminium components as well as Perspex windows.

From the DB4 to the DB4GT to the DB4GT Zagato the weight decreased from originally 1354kg to 1171kg and the power output of the Tadek Marek-designed 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine increased from originally 240bhp to a claimed 314bhp.

The DB4GTZ’s interior was clean, but still featured traditional Aston elements such as the wooden Nardi steering wheel with its satin-black spokes, Smiths instruments in the crackle-black dashboard and Connolly leather.

Only 20 DB4GTZ were produced between 1960 and 1962 (only 19 survive) – most at Newport Pagnell with the bodies being hand-made at Zagato’s workshop in Milan, so that – due to Italian artisan creativity – no two DB4GTZ look exactly the same. Of the only 20 DB4GTZ built, seven were left and 13 were right-hand drive.

The first DB4GTZ was delivered in spring 1961 and the last middle of 1963. Elio Zagato liked the car so much he even bought one for his personal use.

Priced at 5.469 Pounds the DB4GTZ was well more expensive than e.g. a Jaguar XKS150 at 2.000 Pounds or the standard DB4 at just over 4.000 Pounds.

The DB4GTZ made its racing debut with Stirling Moss at the wheel in Goodwood during Easter 1961. But, although being driven by some of the most prominent race drivers of its time incl. Jim Clark, Innes Ireland, Stirling Moss and Roy Salvadori, the DB4GTZ never fully satisfied the company’s hopes for a race-winning, Ferrari-beating GT. The DB4GTZ’s two main challenges compared to the Ferrari 250 GT SWB and later the 250 GTO, remained weight and power-output. The DB4GTZ only had a short career in top level racing notably with John Ogier’s Essex Racing stable (1 VEV and 2 VEV). But, over the years the DB4GTZ’s beauty, rarity and provenance more than made up for the success it lacked on the racetracks.

Some technical details of the DB4GTZ: Top speed 154mph/248km/h, Acceleration 0-60mph in 6,1sec / 0-100km/h 6.2sec, power 314bhp, weight 1171kg, 135l tank capacity (ca. 565km/350miles).

Overall production numbers of the DB4 Series (1958-1963): 1.103 DB4; 75 DB4GT and 20 DB4GTZ (19 surviving).

 

SHORT BIO ASTON MARTIN DB4GT ZAGATO CHASSIS NO. 0183/R “2 VEV”:

Each edition timepiece includes genuine material from this very car which was bought originally by John Ogier for his Essex Racing Stable race team in June 1961 and registered 2 VEV. Chassis 0183/R (“R” for right-hand-drive) was extensively raced by Essex Racing Stable at the most famous tracks including Le Mans, Spa, Silverstone, Montlhéry and Goodwood.

In 1961 Aston Martin works persuaded John Ogier to lend the car to Equipe Nationale Belge (ENB) to enter the 1961 Spa Grand Prix where Lucien Bianchi crashed heavily leading the field. Chassis 0183R was subsequently rebuilt by Aston Martin implementing several modifications (similar to the DP209 lightweight incl. a 300+ BHP engine and styling improvements) and returned to John Ogier who continued to race the car on the top level.

In 1963 0183/R was raced at the Goodwood TT by Essex Racing’s Jim Clark only to be involved in a crash with John Surtees and his Ferrari 250 GTO (no one was hurt, the pictures taken of the scene are among the most fascinating images of motorsport history given the rarity and value of the cars today).

In 1964 John Ogier sold the car to Alexander Roch who raced it again at the Paris 100km. In 1965 2 VEV was sold to Anthony Hartley-Whyte of the Ayrshire Bonding Company (e.g. White & Mackay whisky) – a collector of cars associated with compatriot Jim Clark – who put 0183/R to rest in his private Scottish museum until 1969. In 1969 Nick Cussons (Cussons Soap) bought 0183/R and raced it very successfully and with much joy on club level until end of 1971. On 14 October 1971 Roger & Toni St. John Hart acquired 0183/R and Roger St John Hart raced the car very successfully and with great pride in many races until 1985.

In the 1990s 0183/R – also affectionately known under its registration “2 VEV” – appeared at numerous charity events and Concours incl. Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach (winning Most significant British Car of the Show in 1997). In 2013 the car was proudly displayed by its owners – Toni & David Eyles – at Villa d’Este on Lake Como and several prestigious concours events. Also, it received the particular honour of being featured on the official Goodwood Revival 2013 poster.

SCALFARO – MECHANICAL SWISS WATCHES FOR ENTHUSIASTS:

Brothers Alexander and Dominik Kuhnle founded the watch brand SCALFARO in 2001. Their uncompromising focus on quality, individuality and precision, combined with their creativity and dedication have shaped “SCALFARO” into a strong brand with a unique character. Its remarkable and authentic designs have assisted to establish “SCALFARO” as one of the rare family-owned manufacturers of fine mechanical timepieces. In its Swiss Ateliers the company manufactures mechanical masterpieces by combining traditional artisan techniques, innovative materials and the latest modern-day technology. SCALFARO’s extraordinary design language and powerful shapes are complemented by flawless workmanship, keen attention to detail and the use of the finest materials. A SCALFARO timepiece always forms a harmonious unit radiating with clear lines, sporty elegance, refined functionality and impressive solidity. Furthermore, SCALFARO is a specialist in the field of exclusive high-end editions due to proprietary innovations such as its SCALFARO Ceramic Intarsia Technology.

“IN NATURE, NOTHING IS CREATED, NOTHING IS DESTROYED, EVERYTHING IS TRANSFORMED”

Antoine-Laurent de Lavoisier, 18th Century

At Scalfaro we transform genuine material of iconic objects into technical masterpieces that carry emotions, bring pleasure to people and tell intriguing stories. By skillfully blending history with technological modernity we preserve the legends and achievements of the past and proudly carry their fascination into our modern age.

DISCLAIMER

KEYWORDS:

SCALFARO, DB4GTZ 1960 Spada, DB4GTZ 1960, DB4GTZ, Ercole Spada, Spada, GT, Gran Turismo, 2VEV, 2 VEV, 0183, 0183/R, Grand Tour, Alexander Kuhnle, Dominik Kuhnle, Kuhnle, Watches, Wristwatches, Edition, Limited Edition, Ceramic Intarsia, Scalfaro Ceramic Intarsia, mechanical Movements, Manufacture, Rennabteilung, Race Department, ScalfaScrews, Legend, DNA, DNA Intarsia, Motorsport, Engineer, Race Driver, Sports Car, Sports Car Icon, Eyles, Designer, Engineer, Enthusiasts.

DISCLAIMER:

SCALFARO WATCHES IS NOT IN ANY WAY AFFILIATED WITH ASTON MARTIN LAGONDA LTD. OR ZED MILANO S.R.L. THE REFERENCES TO “ASTON MARTIN“, “DB4”, “DB4GT”, “DB4GTZ”, “DB4GT ZAGATO” AND “ZAGATO” ARE USED FOR HISTORIC REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY. EACH EDITION TIMEPIECE IS MANUFACTURED IN AN ARTISANAL PROCESS AND REPRESENTS A UNIQUE PIECE OF ART.