Lot 131
  • 131

RING, 'ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD', CHARLES DE TEMPLE, 1960S

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

The bi-coloured openwork band composed of letters spelling the phrase 'All the Time in the World' around both the exterior and interior, size K, signed C de T, fitted case stamped Charles de Temple.

Condition

Signed C de T. Significant wear to bi-coloured finish. Gross weight approximately 9.7 grams. Fitted case stamped Charles de Temple, Studio Three, 98/99 Jermyn Street London SW1.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by a letter from an employee of Charles de Temple, and a facsimile of a letter from the consignor detailing the provenance of the ring.

This distinctive ring was one of only two designed by the jeweller Charles de Temple for the 1969 James Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'. The ring is central to the film's narrative, as it serves as the wedding ring given by Bond (George Lazenby) to the Contessa Teresa "Tracy" di Vicenzo (Diana Rigg) on the occasion of their wedding, 007's only marriage. The romantic message 'All the Time in the World' spelled out by the ring's design is a recurring theme throughout the film, and  also the title of the film's theme song, performed by Louis Armstrong. However, the phrase also takes on a poignant tone as the final words of the film - Bond's bride is tragically killed by assassins shortly after their wedding, and Bond reads the words on the ring aloud as he cradles her in his arms.

The present owner was a close family friend of Charles de Temple, and received this ring as a gift from one of de Temple's financial backers shortly after the film wrapped.

The ring's eyecatching bi-coloured design and its unusual prominence in the film brought de Temple considerable success, and to meet demand, de Temple produced a limited edition of 50 copies, of a similar design to the original but reading 'All the Love in the World'.