Older Aston Martins often have a tale to tell. They tend to have lived interesting lives and been owned by colourful characters, but rarely can an Aston have lived quite such a rollercoaster existence as chassis DB5/2266/L.
In its six decades, it has passed through the hands of an international adventurer, a NASA scientist and a salt-flat racer, among others. It has survived engine transplants and fire. And it is now in the custody of award-winning TV director Hamish Hamilton, who has spent several years piecing together its remarkable story.
In-between directing assignments and lockdowns, Hamilton, 55, welcomes me warmly into his North London home. Six foot five, with a rock-star shock of hair and enough energy to light up a small town, he speaks with passion and infectious enthusiasm,…
