Vintage Les Leston Jaguar Steering Wheel Ashtray by Beswick

A rare piece of British automobilia, this vintage steering-wheel ashtray was produced for Les Leston Limited by Beswick, England, and features the Jaguar marque at its centre.

Modelled after a classic three-spoke sports-car steering wheel, the ceramic form combines a warm wood-effect rim, polished silver-tone spokes and a detailed Jaguar badge. The result is as much a piece of automotive design as it is an ashtray.

Les Leston was a celebrated British racing driver, engineer and manufacturer of specialist motoring accessories, whose company produced a range of automotive products and branded accessories during the post-war era. Beswick produced these distinctive ceramic steering-wheel pieces for Les Leston, with different examples associated with marques and automotive brands including Jaguar, Lotus, MG and others.

This Jaguar example is particularly appealing for its combination of period automotive styling, ceramic craftsmanship and unmistakable Jaguar detailing.

A great piece of 1960s–70s British automobilia, equally suited to a collector's display, study, bar or coffee table.

Details

• Les Leston Limited
• Made by Beswick, England
• Jaguar
• Vintage, circa 1960s–70s
• Ceramic
• Steering-wheel form
• Three-spoke design
• Jaguar centre badge
• Wood-effect rim
• Registered design number to underside
• Approx. 19 cm diameter

Condition description

Good vintage condition with age-related wear. The ceramic has developed natural crazing consistent with age, with some wear and loss to the silvered detailing and general surface marks. The underside shows age-related discolouration and wear. These imperfections are part of the character of the piece and reflect its vintage condition. Please refer to photographs for the overall condition. 

Dimensions

Diameter: approx. 19 cm
Height: approx. 7–8 cm