Editor's Picks: Breitling Avenger Collection, Crockett & Jones Islay Boot, Blackacre Engagement Ring, Slowear Parka Jacket,
Christmas is easing to the front of our minds as the season approaches, and so this week we're looking at gifts.
Words: Chris Cotonou
The Christmas songs have started playing already, haven’t they? While we’re not quite there yet (November has barely just started), we can’t help but get slightly in the festive mood, and so the following selection of gear—while not tailored specifically to Christmas shopping—is curated with gifting in the back of our mind. Floris’ Perfumer's Set is one example, as is a Christmas-themed dinner at London’s Carlton Tower, a new watch from Breitling, and if you really want to make it an occasion, a bespoke engagement ring from the masters at Blackacre. Plus, some extra pieces from Slowear and Le Alfre to keep you looking stylish and sartorially informed. It’s nearly here. But for now, these are the items we’re adding to our—unashamedly early—Christmas list.
Breitling Avenger Collection
For over twenty years, Breitling’s Avenger has been one of the definitive aviator’s watches—built for actual jet pilots. Even if you’re yet to earn your wings, it’s a stunning piece worthy of any collection, and this redesign is centred on sleek aviation detailing, wear-resistant materials, and the addition of the powerful Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01 to chronograph models.
Carlton Tower Christmas ‘The Season for Dreams’
Not gear, per-say, but we strongly recommend getting in early to enjoy the luxurious Carlton Tower Jumeirah’s selection of festive menus over the holiday season. The next couple of months will see it transformed into a Christmas utopia—inspired by snowy villages in fairy tale books. It’s perfect for a family outing, or to treat your other half. Need some advice on where to start? The hotel’s flagship restaurant Al Mare offers a five-course Christmas Eve menu with modern Italian dishes.
Last Drop Distillers: No. 32
The Last Drop Distillers has curated a selection of its releases—including a Tawny Port and The 2023 Collection. We’re especially drawn to this 32-year-old single malt Irish whisky, bespoke curated by expert (and entrepreneur) Louise McGuane. It’s The Last Drop’s debut in the world of Irish whisky, and is finished in an ex-Oloroso Sherry Butt, and perfect to add to the collection (or sip on a cold evening). Be quick, though—there are only 663 bottles going.
Floris Perfumers Collection Gift Set
Choosing just one Floris scent is a daunting task. Do you follow Bond and go for the No.89, or perhaps their iconic Santal? The Collection Gift Set means that you get to enjoy Floris’ most iconic fragrances without missing out—finding the scent to suit all of the occasions in your life. Better yet, it would make an absolutely stellar gift with Christmas fast approaching. And yes, we are all for gifting oneself.
Le Alfré English Tartan Shirt
Le Alfre are gaining a reputation as one of classic menswear's coolest cult brands—eschewing the stuffiness that is wrongly associated with ‘classic’ while remaining simple and sleek. We’re really liking this 100% cotton English Tartan Shirt, which has a warm colorway, as well as a subtle logo. In keeping with their quest for the best fabrics, it is milled by the oldest fabric mill in Portugal. So you get style and substance in one.
Blackacre Engagement Ring
Where does one find a classic engagement ring? Not the garish or overcompensating type—but a gesture of your love that is understated, to the point, and designed so beautifully that the more she wears it, the more she understands how unique it is. Blackacre are masters at bespoke ring-making, and should you be thinking of popping the question, they assist with creating versions with your requirements. Because who knows the love of your life more than you do? Better yet, we've written a handy guide on the subject here.
Slowear Water-Repellent Wool Comfort Fit Parka Jacket
Slowear are experts at merging supreme quality with genuine style. You might already own a few pairs of their trousers, but as this parka proves, they’re just as great at designing outerwear. The virgin wool exterior offers refinement, more business-appropriate than sporty versions, and is treated to resist the rain. Down padding adds maximum comfort and warmth. If ever there was a parka to make the right impression, it’s this one.
Crockett & Jones Islay Boots
If you're retiring your summer slip-ons, this would be the ideal time to invest in a proper pair of hard-wearing boots. And Crockett & Jones' suede Islay versions are among the most finely-crafted you can buy, with robust storm-welts, high leg design, speed hooks and bold broguing that speak of a boot that’s stood, and is still standing the test of time.
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Further reading
Editor’s Picks: Grand Seiko watch, Crockett & Jones shoes, Littlemill whisky and My Style Bags watch case
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