To celebrate its extensive Formula 1 coverage on Sky Sports F1 HD, Sky has released a range of limited-edition, F1-inspired ‘designer’ set-top boxes.
Racing legend Sir Stirling Moss, OBE, and F1 fanatics model Jodie Kidd and comedian Vic Reeves have each designed their own limited-edition Sky+ HD 1TB box. The exclusive collection will be released in time for the 2012 Formula 1 Santander British Grand Prix in July.
Each design offers and insight into the personality of the designer and his or her take on the sport. “The idea for my design came from a car sculpture on the roof of my home, which I designed myself, inspired by the racing cars from my era,” said Moss. “The No 7 was a crucial element as it has always been a lucky number in my family … I had a fair few wins driving cars with that number and at one time when I was racing car No 43, I included a plus sign between the two numbers so they would add up to seven!”
Not many people realise that Reeves is also an artist, and the F1 fan delighted in the task of designing his own Sky box. “I have many happy memories watching the races as a child, and even had a poster on my bedroom wall,” he said. “I wanted my design to be playful and full of colour and, because I love the shape of the old-fashioned racing cars, I was keen to include one in there.”
Kidd – who’s looking forward to the big race in July – went for a more glamorous look for her design, featuring a pin-up girl. “I love the iconic vintage paintings from the era,” she said. “With the addition of the red racing car, it really stands out.”
The special-edition 3D-ready Sky+ HD 1TB boxes are priced at €249 for new or existing Sky customers, plus €15 per month for a HD subscription. A possible Fathers’ Day gift for motor-mad dads, perhaps?