Nicholas Mee, Aston Martin Aficionado; "On my wish list to Santa this year I’ve included the 'Perfect DB4', like this one here.

"It’s a Series II car, and that’s the best-looking with the ‘cathedral’ rear lights and simpler grille and boot. It’s also virtually indistinguishable from a brand new car in 1961 - but with all the modern conveniences you’d need without spoiling the charm of the original. Like a 5-speed gearbox, air-conditioning, upgraded suspension and brakes with ABS. As well as power assisted steering, Borrani-type wheels, central locking and many more special features.

"The car’s finished in Brackenbury Green with black hide, and has covered only 1,000 miles since total restoration.

"Put a bow round it and park it under the biggest fir tree you can find, it would make any true Aston enthusiast’s Christmas complete."

One of the world’s leading Aston Martin specialists, Nicholas Mee first joined Astons in 1976, at the then new sales outlet in Sloane Street. In 1984 he was promoted, taking over responsibility for running its Knightsbridge establishment, which soon moved to premises in Cheval Place. This was at a time when the company was making some of the world's greatest supercars, but it was very much an under-funded private operation.

The commitment made by the Ford Motor Company to Aston Martin in the early ‘90s ensured the marque would endure, and Nick’s decision around that time to leave ‘the factory’ to set up his own independent sales operation in South Kensington was the right one, as is proved by the move early in the new millennium to a 22-car garage (with servicing facilities) in Brackenbury Village, London W6.

The 1961 Aston Martin DB4 costs £145,000. For further information please visit www.nicholasmee.co.uk, or email [email protected].

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Pam Lee Photography/Classic Driver