Casinos have been a long-running theme in the James Bond franchise. Since the character was first introduced to us playing Chemin de Fer – a variant of baccarat – in the 1962 movie Dr. No, high-stakes card games have served as a backdrop for unexpected plot twists, memorable villains and suspenseful showdowns.
The casino encapsulates the intrigue and sophistication of Bond’s world, so it’s no surprise that enthusiasts are inspired to emulate the character when playing their favourite card games.
Here are 10 tools you can use to channel your inner 007 to elevate the experience of playing at casinos!
Smartwatch with casino apps
Bond is synonymous with classic style and high-tech gadgets that are discreet and multifunctional. That makes the modern smartwatch a perfect companion for games of poker, blackjack, roulette and craps. In addition to looking good, sleek smartwatches act as a hub for casino strategies and game statistics. You can load up apps to calculate poker odds or inform your blackjack strategy – all with Bond-like precision.
Stylish sunglasses with poker lenses
James Bond is a style icon with a penchant for designer sunglasses. This look works well in poker rooms, where dark specs look cool while doubling – or tripling – and act as an effective way to hide “tells” and reduce glare from bright lights around the table. They are great for perfecting your poker face, too. Maintain that enigmatic aura, just like Bond.
RFID wallet
Keeping your money safe and secure is important at a casino, as Bond knows. Opt for an RFID-blocking wallet made from high-quality carbon fiber or metal at the tables to protect your bank cards and prevent contactless fraud. These advanced and practical wallets are effortlessly stylish, too. You can’t be too careful when you are high-rolling and need to keep your big winnings secure!
Tuxedo suit
Not exactly a tool in the traditional sense, but Bond always dons a favored tuxedo at the casino tables. Wearing a sharp suit or elegant dress sets the tone for the evening and shows your opponents you mean business. It can also boost your confidence: when you look the part, you are more likely to back it up with smart plays and a composed demeanor. Charisma and sophistication at the table can be a game-changer!
Cash advance
Bond has had to rely on cash advances to continue playing, most notably during the 2006 classic, Casino Royale, starring Daniel Craig. After losing out to antagonist Le Chiffre, Bond is given an advance by Felix Leiter. This eventually leads to Bond turning the tables on the villain and winning the poker tournament with a legendary straight flush.
Cash advances are a tool you can use to manage your finances at the table. In the real world, these advances are provided by credit card companies and casinos and act as short-term loans. Casinomeister has a complete guide on casino cash advances, including the advantages and disadvantages of using them. A true Bond-like approach means planning funds and managing your resources wisely!
Portable power bank
With so many gadgets to keep connected, you can’t go wrong with a sleek and portable power bank. The latest models feature incredible power capacity – the Anker 737 has a 24,000 mAh reserve – to power your phone, smartwatch, and other devices during even the longest poker tournaments and card games. This is a device that today’s Bond would definitely have in his arsenal!
Discreet earpiece
007 is unlikely to wear an over-the-ear headset. It’s just not his style. Discreet earpieces would not be out of place, though, especially if you have another friend (or agent!) to communicate with. Bond wore a Phonak Invisity miniature receiver during a scene at the Macau Casino in the 2012 movie Skyfall. If coded messages aren’t your thing, maybe some high-end Bluetooth earbuds for music listening are a better alternative.
Luxury lighter
There’s no smoking at the tables these days. However, you can still carry a timeless accessory: the luxury lighter. Channel Bond’s love for suave accessories with a lighter that also doubles as a functional piece of tech. Lighters with a USB drive or Wi-Fi hotspot, for example, bring style and utility to the casino tables. It’s a gadget Q would be proud of!
Smart ring
New to the smart tech world are smart rings, which are equipped with all sorts of cool features. The latest smart rings can track your skin temperature and heart beat – they’re great for high-pressure situations and can signal when to try and look calm and collected. You also have access to NFC for quick and contactless payments, and Bluetooth connectivity for your smartphone.
High-end card shufflers
A professional-grade card shuffler is a must for any Bond casino aficionado. These shufflers are perfect if your home doubles as the casino for the evening! They add a sleek and efficient touch to every card game and keep the action moving swiftly. Shufflers also ensure every deck is fair and randomized.
By incorporating these tools into your casino gaming routine, you can become a smart, sophisticated and stylish player, just like the iconic spy himself!