Not even a brief flirtation with Lotus and BMW vehicles could dilute the association between James Bond and Aston Martin. For six decades, England's premier secret agent has enjoyed stints behind the wheel of Gaydon's finest creations, with the DB5 first seen in 1962's Goldfinger perhaps being the most memorable.

Piloted by the suave Sean Connery, BMT 216A has been etched into the minds of moviegoers for years and, importantly, has created a strong brand image for Aston Martin. It should come as no surprise that the company has created continuation cars for monied Bond aficionados, replete with the desirable gadgetry.

Now, courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions, 007 fans have the chance to purchase Sir Sean Connery's privately-owned DB5. The late Sir Connery had the 1964 example repainted in Snow Shadow Grey to match the vehicle he piloted on the silver screen. Aston Martin may make some truly beautiful cars such as the DBS, but none of the contemporary offerings can match this beauty.

First clapping eyes on the DB5 in the 1960s, Connery's acquisition was a recent one. His son, Jason, said Connery had a life-long desire to own a DB5 "for no other reason than he loved the car." He added, "I think in hindsight it did represent something in his life that was unique and captured a moment in time."

The Scottish thespian purchased the Aston in 2018 and enjoyed it sparingly up until his death in 2020. Before that, the DB5 spent its life in the UK, where it was bought new by a Mr. White on July 7, 1964. Back then, few cars could touch the gentleman's express in a straight line.

When new, the 4.0-liter inline-six mustered up more than 280 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque. This translated into a fairly rapid (for the time, at least) 0 to 60 mph sprint of eight seconds and a top speed of 145 mph. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.

Open the driver's door and you're welcomed by a symphony of British craftsmanship. Rich red Connolly leather covers most surfaces. Visible through the three-spoke wood-rimmed tiller is a welcome remnant of old-world motoring. There are no digital dials here; a set of beautiful Smiths gauges tell you everything you need to know.

Estimated to sell for around $1.4-1.8 million at Broad Arrow's Monterey event in August, it will certainly attract numerous collectors. The buyer will also receive a special treat. Longtime friend and legendary F1 World Championship Jackie Stewart will give the new owner a drive in the Aston, "at a mutually agreeable time."

The two were good friends for a long time and have engaged in myriad charity events over the years. Even in his death, Connery's charitable work continues. Most of the proceeds from the sale will go back to the Sean Connery Philanthropy Fund. He clearly had a penchant for straight-six powered coupes; his BMW 635 CSI went up for auction some years back.