Q’s explanation of the rebreather in Thunderball has always struck me as slightly muddled.  He begins with, “In the event of a rebreather not being available, use this device,” yet this device is plainly the rebreather itself.  Whether it’s a scripting hiccup or a line-reading quirk, the result is an oddly phrased introduction to one of the most iconic gadgets of the Connery era.

But the inelegance of the wording doesn’t diminish the brilliance of the gadget.  The rebreather remains a prime example of classic Bond ingenuity that is practical and intuitive, that even modern Bond movie could revisit.  And Q’s proud note that it “closes to a convenient pocket size” only enhances its appeal.  More like this please!