LONDON — Jacques Blanc is no stranger to promotion. A former Parisian adman, he has touted such brands as Mercedes-Benz, Hugo Boss and L'Oreal. Now a denizen of London's high-zoot Kensington neighborhood, Blanc's latest gambit is gold leaf — as in gold-leaf-plated automobiles.
Blanc's firm Alchemist offers to apply gold, platinum or palladium leaf to a number of unusual surfaces, from laptops to Mini Coopers. Now, Alchemist has transformed an Aston Martin DB7, with a coating of gold and platinum leaf, along with seven diamonds.
The car will make its public debut next week at the annual MPH show at Earl's Court, immediately after the London premiere of Quantum of Solace, the latest James Bond flick (and Aston showcase).
Blanc, who fancies himself the "King Midas of customization," views his DB7 as "the gold standard of luxury." Right.
Inside Line says: A gold-roofed Mini? Good grief. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »