The popular assertion that a bespoke Savile Row suit is an investment piece took on a new meaning in New York last month at Bonhams' film memorabilia auction Lights, Camera, Action.
Amongst the thousands of lots at the sale was a safari suit made by Savile Row Bespoke Association (SRBA) member Dege & Skinner (pictured) that was worn by the Hollywood legend Rudolph Valentino.
The cream Half Norfolk jacket and matching wool knickers bear the label J. Dege & Sons, which is dated 8th August 1923.
The winning bid was $20,000, which far exceeded the pre-sale estimate of $2,0000 - $3,000.
This suit has special significance as it was purchased by Valentino during his honeymoon with Natacha Rambova. As detailed in Michael Morris's book Madam Valentino: The Many Lives of Natacha Rambova, during the couple's visit to London in August 1923, "Valentino spent a fortune ordering custom-made suits, hats, shirts, and boots."
Needless to say, the suit was in excellent condition, which is testament to the inimitable tailoring that continues to this day at Dege & Skinner and the other SRBA members on Savile Row.
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