(Press Release – Frankfurt. 12 September 2011) To complement the new colour Breeze, created especially for the second generation of Bentley’s iconic Continental GT Convertible which is making its debut at the International Automobile Exhibition (IAA) in Frankfurt, Bentley Collection has created a small range of exclusive leather goods. The limited edition range, made by the family-owned luxury leather company Ettinger of London, is crafted to enhance the seamless link of quality and design between driver and machine.
Taking cues from its GT coupe sibling launched last year, the new Continental GTC builds on the worldwide success of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006. Bentley’s design and engineering teams have improved virtually every aspect of the renowned convertible with an uncompromising focus on quality.
The Bentley Collection reflects that overall quality and design excellence. The new iPhone case and the Blackberry case, as well as the leather loop keyring and key case, all in Bentley Breeze leather, are designed to give lasting pleasure.
Also making a debut at the show in a limited edition of 50 are 1:43 new Continental GT Convertible models. Handmade and finished by Model Assemblies, a specialist company based in Sussex, England, the models, like the show car, are in Breeze.
We are also pleased to announce the launch the new 2012 Bentley Collection. Our philosophy is that everything carrying the renowned Bentley wings logo also carries our reputation. That’s why every item in the collection, from the smallest gift to a bespoke work of art in hallmark silver, is designed with flair and created to exceptional standards of craftsmanship.
Highlights from the new collection include “The Flying B” range, which offers items such as a desk paperweight, letter opener and wine bottle stopper. Within our “Inspired by Our Heritage” selection we boast a limited edition four-piece Espresso coffee cup set which features original racing scenes from the Brooklands and Le Mans racetracks. New apparel items include waterproof jackets, polo shirts and soft shell fleeces along with many favourites such as Anthony Holt Silversmiths made-to-order Valet boxes which have space for three or four watches, plus a handcrafted sterling silver 1:12 replica of the Bentley Blower, a supercharged 4 ½ litre.
The superb everyday practicality of the new Continental GTC is mirrored in the new Bentley Eyewear Collection, also created especially for the launch.
These Bentley sunglasses offer the latest in eyewear technology, combining the sophisticated design language that is a hallmark of Bentley’s pinnacle position in the world of luxury automotive manufacture with Estede’s rich experience in creating handcrafted eyewear.
The new styles are modern and dynamic. They reflect the muscular and sporty appearance of the new Continental GTC, with its sculpted body and sharp ‘power lines’, more upright matrix radiator grille and new ‘double horseshoe’ rear profile.
Overall, the sunglass frames are lightweight but strong, a combination of attributes that perfectly portrays the pedigree of the Continental GTC. The arms have been developed with attention to fine jewellery-like details and strong sculptural content. The surface treatment around the insert of the emblematic ‘B’ logo is reminiscent of the chrome finish on the lower side of the car.
The choice of material, from fine wood to Asian water buffalo horn and made-to-order 18ct white, yellow and rose gold, is also unique and makes the sunglasses a distinctively Bentley accessory.
All Bentley eyewear cases are made out of the same hides that are being used for the interior of each Bentley. All Bentley model leather colour options are available for Bentley eyewear.
All Bentley eyewear is produced to order only. Prices start from €7,150 ($9,680).
Available at selected Bentley dealers and leading opticians worldwide.