One-off Bowmore ARC-52 Mokume Edition is an exquisite decanter, specially designed by Aston Martin, featuring a unique 52-year-old vintage whisky from the Bowmore Distillery. This collector’s item will be presented at Sotheby’s auction in London on May 26th.
This unique edition takes inspiration from the Japanese metalworking technique called ‘Mokume-Gane’, which translates to “wood grain metal.” This traditional craft produces a mixed-metal laminate with distinctive layered patterns that are reminiscent of the intricate patterns found in natural wood grains.
The top of the ARC-52 decanter is a true work of art, crafted with the finest carbon filaments and construction techniques. Aston Martin, known for its dedication to precision engineering, has utilized the same carbon fiber technology used in their high-performance vehicles to create the sculptural top of the decanter. Carbon fiber is one of the lightest materials available, yet stronger than steel, making it an ideal choice for the production of high-performance components. Aston Martin’s commitment to using carbon fiber in their vehicles is evident in the ultimate hypercar, Aston Martin Valkyrie, and the company’s Formula 1® challenger, the AMR23. The use of carbon fiber in the ARC-52 decanter top not only ensures exceptional durability but also provides a stunning visual display of modern engineering and design.
The carbon fiber component of the decanter has been crafted using a one-of-a-kind technique that replicates the mokume texture, producing a striking natural aesthetic reminiscent of wood grain or layered rock formations. The resulting finish is an exquisite imitation of both the dark rocks found in the bay of Loch Indaal, which is home to the renowned Bowmore Distillery, and the charred interior of the cask where this extraordinary 52-year-old whisky was matured.
The design of this exceptional decanter is a visual representation of the passage of time, blending futuristic elements with the traditional whisky vessel. The design is a seamless fusion of natural and man-made contours, giving the decanter a weightless appearance as it delicately balances on two points. The inspiration for the design was rooted in the fundamental principles of Aston Martin’s renowned design philosophy, which seeks to create stable, refined, and lightweight proportions – a balance that is essential in automotive design. The decanter’s shape was brought to life using a combination of cutting-edge 3D printing technology and expertly handcrafted clay modeling. The design incorporates Aston Martin’s exacting standards for achieving balance and optimal form, resulting in a timelessly beautiful work of art that flawlessly merges heritage and innovation.
The Bowmore ARC-52 Mokume Edition is an exceptional collector’s item, available exclusively through Sotheby’s auction with an estimated price range of £140,000-220,000 ($175,000-275,000). The winning bidder will not only own this unique decanter but will also enjoy a rare experience at Bowmore Distillery and the opportunity to drive the exclusive Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition during their visit to Islay. The DBX Bowmore Edition was crafted by Aston Martin’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin, with only 18 examples produced in this bespoke specification. It features Bowmore-branded copper inlays made from copper taken from the original whisky still, which accentuate the side strakes of the DBX.
The proceeds from the auction will be donated to The Bowmore Legacy, a dedicated and long-term project that supports the employability, training, and housing needs of Bowmore’s youth. The initiative aims to provide affordable and supported housing options and essential employment skills for young people who face barriers to employment.
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