Editor’s Picks: Electric Bike, Driving Goggles and Aston Martin Vantage
From an Italian glass-and-leather table tennis table to a cold brew coffee maker, this is what we want this week…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Being a gentleman; it’s not all drinks globes, vintage cars and three-piece suits anymore. Instead, you must master the mysterious arts of modern dressing, drinking and driving. That means seeking out new cars with retro spirit, such as Aston Martin’s latest Vantage. It means buttoning and lacing up timeless twists on heritage garments — whether these be from Cheaney or Connolly.
It even means dabbling with innovations, from cold brew coffeemakers and artistically put-together ping-pong tables to that mighty good-looking electric bike you see above. It’s all in the details, you see. So, if being a modern gentleman is your aspiration, you could probably do with some inspiration. Take a look below for the best this week had to offer…
Take your shot: Hiroia Ziggy Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Let’s kick things off with a shot of caffeine. Finished with copper tones and smoked glass, this handsome coffee machine may look like your usual drip-through — but it’s actually a cold-brew contraption. From Hiroia, the ‘Ziggy’ is app-controlled, vacuum-assisted and uses patented cold infusion extraction technology to create the coldest, most flavourful chilled coffee you’ve ever had the satisfaction of sipping.
Shifting gears: Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition
Would you look at this? Motivated by a high-octane return to the world of Formula 1 — and inspired by the official safety car of most Grand Prix — Aston Martin have steered this stunning Vantage F1 Edition off the production line. A limbered-up take on the already-sporty supercar, expect a top speed of 195mph and 527 horsepower. Unfortunately, no flashing-orange roof-mounted light bar.
Sunday drive: Connolly Brown Leather Goggles
Even if you can’t afford the Aston above, there’s nothing stopping you investing in some motoring style. And who better than Connolly, the British brand that has been upholstering cars in its highly finished leather for decades? Cut from the same smooth grain, these CB driving goggles feature an adjustable leather strap, polycarbonate lenses and are cleared for on-road use.
Light up: Linley Blackline Walnut Humidor
Whether you’ve been smoking cigars for years or you’re just getting into the game, a well-made humidor should be the cornerstone of your collection. From Linley, this walnut wood design is lined with cedar, fitted with both a humidifying system and hygrometer — and features an engravable sterling silver plaque on the lid.
Sleep tight: Sir Plus Seersucker Dressing Gown
There’s something about seersucker. At once breathable and comfortable, this midweight cotton was sourced sustainably by Sir Plus — saved from an Italian material waste heap. And its second life is trim, tailored and traditionally designed; a classic wrap-style dressing gown with front patch pockets, a chest pocket and shawl collar.
Old sole: Cheaney Moray C Ghillie Brogue Boot
Have you ever seen such a finely made meeting of fashion and function? From heritage shoemakers Cheaney, the Moray Brogue Boot is detailed with a ghillie lacing system, classic perforations and Goodyear-welted with a hardy ‘Itshide Commando’ sole. But our favourite feature? That textured juxtaposition of dark walnut grain leather and contrasting rich pony suede.
Your serve: Impatia Lungolinea Leather & Glass Table Tennis Table
Several weeks ago, we featured a walnut and gold-plated football table in our Editor’s Picks. This week, it’s the turn of table tennis. From Italian craftsmen Impatia, the chrome-detailed ‘Lungolinea Leather Edition’ boasts a refined glass playing surface that stands on hand-sculpted leather legs. The net, perforated and available in one of ten colour finishes, is cut from Alcantara.
Green machine: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Jumbo' Extra-Thin
The new Ref. 15202 in platinum from Audemars Piguet has us green with envy. On the precious metallic surface, this 39mm Royal Oak is quite a classic offering — keeping the model’s iconic octagonal case shape and simple applied indexes. But that sunburst green dial is something else; enhanced with a smoked gradient and shimmering emerald centre.
Saddle up: Avionics V2 Matt Black Electric Bike
For those convinced that e-Bikes should be carbon-clad visions of the future, the Avionics V2 must come as quite a shock. It may have a 4,000-watt electric engine and be capable of a 36mph top speed — but that brushed black paint job and detailing with Brazilian cherry wood give this two-wheeler a distinctly vintage look.
Plain sailing: OPV 56 Superyacht
Developed in partnership with Fulvio De Simoni, this 56-metre custom superyacht unfortunately already has an owner. But that’s no reason not to admire it. And, with its aluminium hull, imposing high bow and continuous foredeck (with helipad, of course), there’s a lot to be admired. Particularly decadent is the master suite — which takes up the entire upper deck.
Check it out: Turnbull & Asser Bryon Wool Jacket
An excellent option to complement those Connolly Driving Goggles above, this ‘Bryon’ checked travel jacket from Turnbull & Asser is the epitome of classic road-trip style. At once relaxed and tailored, the twin vents and adjustable buttoning waist ensure the jacket’s comfort — while the three-button front and notch lapels give you an air of practical elegance.
Want more of the best gear money can buy? Check out last week’s Editor’s Picks…
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Further reading
Editor’s Picks: Grand Seiko watch, Crockett & Jones shoes, Littlemill whisky and My Style Bags watch case
A bigger splash: The best RIB brands on the market
