In 1965, Takao Saito was asked to create the authorized manga adaptation of Ian Flemings original James Bond novels, an experience that prepared him well for Saitos own creation, Golgo 13. A longtime publisher as well as an artist, Saito formed his own production companyin 1960, which by 1974 developed into Leed Co. Ltd, and continues today to put out its own line of manga, books, and contemporary-interest magazines.