Bentley Debuts Massive $254,000 Book for 100th Anniversary
Charting History
The Bentley Centenary Opus far surpasses any previous account of the brand’s history by incorporating elements of the company directly into the book itself. It gains immense prestige by featuring on its cover the official Bentley Wings badge that is affixed to every Bentley Centenary model. And owners have the ability to choose the color of the leather hide used on the cover. Bentley has also ensured that the leather is sourced from the same suppliers that provide the company with the hides they use for the interiors of all their vehicles.
In addition to covering the most iconic Bentley vehicles, the book contains a history of superlative moments that brought the company to where it is today. Individuals inside the company and those around its periphery are an important component of the book as well. CEO Adrian Hallmark discusses the future of the company in the final chapter, which details the challenges the company faces in electrifying its lineup, among other things. Fashion mogul Ralph Lauren, who owns a 1929 Bentley 4.5 liter “Blower Bentley,” penned the introduction. Additionally, Opus was able to speak with the engineers and designers currently responsible for distilling the company’s vast heritage into its future vehicles, employees who no doubt have valuable insight into the importance of the Bentley brand.
‘Bentley’s customers of the future will value elements such as tradition, heritage and craftsmanship and innovation. But above all, I believe they will continue to enjoy the thrill of driving.’
The Bentley Centenary Opus builds additional value by allowing the owners themselves to be a part of the story. Opus will insert photographs from owners into special bespoke pages that don’t necessarily have to include pictures related to Bentley. Opus will even send their own photographers to Bentley owners who purchase the Mulliner edition, a tempting option for those who wish to have their cherished models captured in the best possible light.
Bentley is not the first automaker to celebrate its 100th anniversary. But while other manufacturers have been content with slapping some commemorative badges on their cars and calling it a day, Bentley decided to create something truly special for its owners. The Bentley Centenary Opus goes far beyond a simple tribute by becoming a collectible that honors the brand while retaining its own unique identity, something that all Bentley owners are likely already familiar with.
“Part of what defines luxury is responding to people’s needs for achievement, self-expression and reward, in whatever field they operate,” says Bentley’s current chairman and CEO, Adrian Hallmark, in the book’s final chapter, which focuses on the iconic carmaker’s future. “Bentley’s customers of the future will value elements such as tradition, heritage and craftsmanship and innovation. But above all, I believe they will continue to enjoy the thrill of driving.”
Photos: Bentley