The Archives

Contact

Faye McLeod
Archivist

Tel +44 (0) 1865 400414
Fax +44 (0) 1865 400200
Email archive@amheritrust.org

Click here to see charges for using the archive.

The Trust archive has an impressively large collection of material relating to the history and present of Aston Martin. It holds a large number of original manufacturing plans, drawings and blueprints dating back to the late 1920s. It also has a exstensive collection of factory records and publications, including order books, workshop manuals, and original publicity material. In addition to this the archive collects material pertaining to both the Aston Martin Owners' Club and the Trust. The archive also boast a collection of over 250 books, many of which are rare.

The Trust has a major photo archive, including the work of Louis Klementaski for Aston Martin, the recently bequeathed Roger Stowers collection, and the Neill Bruce collection. Where possible we are pleased to supply images for use in publications and research.

Provision for Readers

The archive offers a full range of facilities for visiting readers. This includes space for research (including roll-out space for large plans); a dedicated computer with a CD and DVD burner; an A4 high-quality scanner; a VHS/DVD player; and a microfiche reader.

Services Offered

Build Sheets and Heritage Certificates

The archive holds the build sheets for the earliest Astons, until 1945. On provision of a chassis number, a copy of these are available to buy for £20.

For cars built between 1945 and 1960 (including DB4s), please appy to Aston Service Dorset: Telephone +44 (0) 1202 574727; Fax +44 (0) 1202 593080; email astonserv@btclick.com

For cars built after 1960, please apply to the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon: Telephone +44 (0) 1926 641188; Fax +44 (0) 1926 645103; email hmcarch@heritage-motor-centre.co.uk

For heritage certificates, please apply to the institution that has the build sheet for your car..

Paint Codes

The archive can provide original ICI paintcodes for a number of models built since 1947. However, please be aware the collection is not comprehensive.

V765

The Trust is recognised by the DVLA as the authority for authenticating requests for registering cars or re-allocation of original registration numbers to Aston Martin and post 1961 Lagonda cars. This is known as the V765 scheme.

The Trust will also supply a letter to your local Vehicle Licensing Office (VLO) indicating the year of manufacture of a particular car to allow an age related registration number to be issued where none existed before or where there is insufficient supporting evidence for the re-issue of a number believed to be the original.

You initiate this process yourself by completing the appropriate forms, the V765 and V55/5. These are available from your nearest VLO Office (find yours here). The V765 may also be downloaded from the DVLA website (here).

You will then need to send us these forms, along with a recent photograph of the vehicle and documentary evidence, such as the original log book, a copy of the original factory record (Build Sheet), a pre 1983 tax disc or MOT certificate, linking it to the original number. We may also wish to inspect the car. We will then send the endorsed application to the DVLA for processing.

Our fees are £50 for this service.

Information on Individual Cars

We are sorry to say that the archive does not hold many records for individual cars. However, as the collection develops we hope that this will change.

Making \a Donation to the Archive

The majority of the archive's holdings are donations from members and non-members alike. We really on the ongoing generosity of people in order to expand our collection and preserve the history of the marque. If you wish to make a donation of material, either large or small, please contact the archivist.

If you have already made a donation, you should have been sent a donor form to sign and return, merely to formalise the exchange. If you wish to read the full terms and conditions of these agreements, they are available on request, or for download here: word document or pdf

The Archive Project

A professional archivist, Faye McLeod, was appointed in November 2006, to organise, catalogue, and repackage to archive holdings. Furthermore, she ensures that the archive is compliant to all relevant UK legislation.

The material in the archive is being catalogued to international standards, using an specialist computer package. The physical material is being stored in conservation-quality packaging to ensure its longevity. The photographs are being scanned in, and attached to the relevant catalogue entries.

Eventually, the digital catalogue will be uploaded to the internet, so the public can search the archive's holdings from the comfort of their own home, and order copies of photographs that they are interested in.

As can be imagined, this is an huge task and is ongoing.

Aston Martin Heritage Trust Archive Fees

Research conducted by the archivist:

Standard (Answered within 7 working days) - £10 for the first hour; £15 for the second hour

Express (Answered within 24 hours) - £20 for the first hour; £25 for the second hour

Scans provided by the archivist - beginning at £10 each

Personal callers:
£5.00 per morning/afternoon (or part thereof).
£10.00 per day

Photocopies:
15p per A4 page; 30p per A3 page

Scans:
Done by visitor: average £5

Concessions:
Students (on production of a valid card) 25%
Members of the Trust 10%

VAT will be charged on all services.

Payments may be made in pounds sterling in cash or by cheque or credit/debit card (minimum charge £5.00). Cheques should be made payable to Aston Martin Heritage Trust.