These are amazing. Sure. I guess I like Piloti Racing Shoes as much as the next guy, but their aesthetics are a far cry from the simple honesty of these deadstock 1960’s Les Leston Grand Prix vintage racing boots. Les Leston was a racer himself that started a popular car accessory shop on London’s High Holborn street and outfitted racers with custom steering wheels, fire suits, helmets, and the like. But these boots are just on another level.
I’m sure they’re not fire safe. I’m sure they won’t stand up to much abuse outside of the car. I’m sure they’re gorgeous. Now if only I could find a way to cram my 10½ EE feet into this pair of 7½ boots. Available on eBay at a price appropriate to their amazingness. Thanks for alerting us to this one, Paul!
Who am I to choose from among these names? How can I ask any of you to choose from the best of 1950s racing? Why argue the point when we can celebrate not any specific favorite, but the glory of this entire golden era of competition?
Monaco Cufflinks. Named for Graham Hill’s victory at the 1965 Monaco Grand Prix
All too often when men’s accessory makers attempt to introduce elements of racing into their lines the results are ham-fisted and clunky. We’ve all seen examples of wristwatches or bracelets that are overtly bedazzled with checkered flags or racing stripes or Von Dutchian flames. Eyesores, the lot of ’em.
Monza Cufflinks. Named for John Surtees’ victory at the 1964 Italian Grand Prix
When I come across a line of vintage racing-inspired accessories that are truly well designed, meticulously executed, and beautifully made, I can just feel my wallet screaming for mercy. In spite of the fact that I have almost no use at all for these gorgeous cufflinks from London silversmiths One Bond Street, I’m just such a sucker for wonderful examples of tasteful nods to historic motorsport.
Parabolica Cufflinks. Named for John Surtees’ victory at the 1967 Italian Grand Prix
I’ve struggled to tastefully showcase my own love for vintage racing in the work environment—and I work in an ad agency, where it’s perfectly fine wearing a t-shirt and ripped jeans. I can only imagine how difficult it would be for those that need to wear suits daily. Here’s where those with whiter collars than mine have one up on me. A set of cufflinks with graphics inspired by Graham Hill’s BRM, or Jim Clark’s Lotus 49, or John Surtees’ Honda RA300 are going to look much better when coupled with Hugo Boss than with Levi’s.
Silverstone Cufflinks. Named for Jim Clark’s victory at the 1967 British Grand Prix
