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Enjoyed reading this. I'd like to point out that Gin ABV varies with brand, spanning generally between 40 and 47%. This is going to have discernible influence on how a given ratio of Gin/Vermouth/ice dilution is going to taste.
Ratios should be viewed as guides, then fine tuned as to Gin ABV. [I'll add that your jigger is an invaluable aid].
A 40% at 4:1 is going to hit differently than a 47% mixed at the same ratio.

I carry a list of likely to encounter Gin brands when drinking out which I can refer to if my favoured brand is not on the menu. Check the ABV and order my ratio adjusted appropriately.

Since we are getting into the finer details of a Dry Martini here, another question is; what is the optimal stirring time?

I prefer Tanqueray No.Ten gin with Cinzano 1757 Extra Dry Vermouth:
https://www.tanqueray.com/en-us/recipes/tanqueray-no-ten-gin-martini#method

Also, if stirring 2 drinks instead of one, does the stirring time need to be doubled in order to get the same amount of dilution and chilling?

I don’t know what it’s called, but my “bone dry” Gibson preferred ratio is 8:1. 2oz. Gin .25oz. Vermouth. I’m also using vermouth-brined onions which leach out a little bit of that flavor.

I got a sake vermouth I can’t wait to try soon.

You're forgetting one, El Clarito, by Santiago 'Pichin' Policastro.
A 90-year-old Argentine martini
9 parts gin
1 part French vermouth
a twist of lemon

I just opened my new bottle of Vermouth, a Chazalettes. Turned out almost wine-like, very little vermouth in that vermouth. So I guess this discussion about ratios completely depends on which vermouth you choose. Unfortunately Dolin is not available here.

just made a gorgeous 3:1.

I have found your jigger and list of Dry Martini ratios most helpful in discovering 'my' Dry Martini preferences. Now I commonly only can't decide between a 5:1 and 7:1 ratio ☺️ but quickly resolved it by choosing depending on my mood.

Entertaining and informative, as ever, Simon...
one little thing (probably a 'typo'), but you have the 15:5 "Franklin" measurements as 75ml and 15ml which is 5:1!

An appropriate post to celebrate the release (finally!) of the latest James Bond film. Thank you!

Great article Simon! I'm a Vesper man myself with 15 ml of Cocchi Americano instead of Lillet. You mention the terminology of "direct" - could you explain that?

Thanks Simon. A well written article as always - and great to hear someone saying that you should take it as you like it rather than prescribing a 'standard' way. I agree that for recipes with less vermouth, shaken works - although it does affect the beautiful clarity of the drink by introducing air bubbles.

Well written. Agree that there is no right or wrong! A preference is a preference as long as you enjoy. Thanks for continuing to put out such great content. - Matt Melaik, The Walter Collective

Fix your measurements, lads. All of your 75ml measurements are translated into 1 and a half ounces.