The Commanders Club is a group of James Bond enthusiasts who savor the legacy of Ian Fleming and his Gentleman Agent, James Bond 007. The organisation was founded in San Francisco in 1987. At once deadly serious and tongue-in-cheek, the Commanders Club represents a unique appreciation of 007.

Three life-long Bond connoisseurs were mingling at an eclectic San Francisco house party when they realized each spoke "Bond" fluently and with a deep appreciation for the subject matter. That effectively ended any interaction they had with the rest of the partygoers that night and the Commanders Club was born, in spirit.

A few weeks later, the organisation came to life in its initial guise "Le Cercle". Its first meeting was assembled at San Francisco's Compass Rose with one goal: To spend an evening enjoying the details that have made 007 a cultural fixture. Since then, the staff has gathered regularly to don black tie, and become immersed in 007. Much as Fleming wrote his first novel, this is an antidote to sometimes mundane reality.

The Commanders Club seeks to preserve the elegant lifestyle and sense of intrigue that was born of Fleming's writings and James Bond in the cinema. It is neither a fan club nor collector's club, per se, although the staff does maintain one of the most comprehensive collections of Bond materials extant. Particular emphasis is placed on items circa 1954-70, including British first editions, fine cinema art, and original soundtrack and related recordings. The staff also produces a number of original essays and examinations of the world of 007.

Commanders Club staff members hail from a variety of professional backgrounds, including broadcasting, film & video production, molecular biology and financial management. These specialties help broaden the scope of the organisation.

Traditionally private, the Commanders Club now makes its personnel and resources available via the internet.


Return to Home Page