Editor’s Picks: Five-Malt Whiskey, Ducati DesertX and Omega Speedmaster
From a pair of Crockett & Jones Oxfords to the latest wristwatch from Vacheron Constantin, this is what we want this week…
Words: Jonathan Wells
2022: A brave new world. Because, as January begins, so do the grand reveals. Designers and brands around the world have spent the first few days of the year launching new, exciting and pioneering products — and we’ve set out to find the best.
There’s the latest Mercedes-Benz concept, a car that breaks the 600-mile range barrier for electric vehicles. There’s a pair of headphones from Urbanista; jet black and solar-powered. There’s even a new smartphone from OnePlus, faster than ever and with a professional-grade camera. Add to that a new Woodford Reserve bourbon and Ducati’s latest racer, and we’re starting the year with a bang…
Taking charge: Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX
How’s this for exciting? Mercedes-Benz are the first mainstream carmaker to crack the 600-mile range mark for an electric car. With a “real-world range of more than 620 miles”, the EQXX is a sleek silver slice of the future; with full-width LED headlights, aero-optimised wheels and a pioneering ‘air control system’.
Time flies: Omega Speedmaster Calibre 321 Canopus Gold
As you’d expect from one of the world’s leading watchmakers, Omega isn’t wasting any time. Just four days into 2022, and the brand introduced this; a new Speedmaster Calibre 321, complete with vintage finishes and a handsome design in 18K ‘Canopus Gold’ — a white gold alloy exclusive to Omega.
Into focus: OnePlus 10 Pro Smartphone
Omega may have the first wristwatch of 2022, but OnePlus has the first smartphone. And it’s quite the launch. With a 6.7-inch display, 80W fast charging and Snapdragon’s ‘8 Gen 1′ chip, it’s already a serious bit of kit — and that’s before you note the professional-grade triple Hasselblad camera set-up set into the caseback.
Lace up: Crockett & Jones Courtenay Oxford shoes
January means it’s back to work — but a pair of choice shoes can make your return to the commute that little more comfortable. From Crockett & Jones, the ‘Courtenay’ Oxford design is subtly punched, fitted with single leather soles and looks best in this dark brown antique calf leather.
Back in the saddle: Ducati DesertX Motorcycle
Powered by the endlessly capable 937cc Testastretta V-twin — borrowed from the brand’s Multistrada V2 model — Ducati’s latest motorcycle is focused on off-road handling. There’s Kayaba suspension, Brembo brakes and 250mm of ground clearance to offer enthusiasts a new rally-ready racer.
Catch the sun: Urbanista ‘Los Angeles’ Solar-Powered Headphones
On the face of them, these stripped-down, pared-back black headphones look like any other pair. On your ears, they don’t sound too different, either — with active noise cancelling and ambient sound mode. But, thanks to the use of Exeger Powerfoyle solar cell material, you can charge them using the sun’s rays alone. Nifty.
Frame job: Oscar Deen ‘Carril’ Sunglasses
Inspired by a pair of sunglasses found in a Madrid market, Oscar Deen’s ‘Carril’ frames are inspired by sharp, 1970s-infused Americana. With boxed-off hinge lugs and softened brow angles, this ‘Bottle’ colourway only accentuates the vintage feel; with a deep green and retro brown ready to tackle winter sun.
Button it: Percival Blanket Workshirt
Cut in an Italian wool blend, this London-made overshirt is a Percival classic. It’s tailored, timeless and finished with coconut buttons to create one of the most versatile pieces in any modern man’s wardrobe. In winter, it’ll make for the perfect mid-layer; before transitioning into your go-to jacket come spring.
Time’s up: Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Complete Calendar Open Face
A ‘complete calendar’ shows not only the time, but also the day of the week, the month, the date and the moonphase. This, the latest addition to Vacheron Constantin’s ‘Traditionelle’ collection, does all of the above — and it does so in open-worked, meticulously mechanical style.
Raise a glass: Woodford Reserve Five-Malt Stouted Mash Whiskey
The 17th annual release in Woodford Reserve’s ‘Master’s Collection’ is something special. Available only in selected international retailers, the ‘Five-Malt Stouted Mash’ has dusky notes of roasted malt and toasted nuts — with a lingering complex finish that pinballs between orange zests, spearmint and warm baking spices.
Brave new world: Brunello Cucinelli Globe
‘Krion’ is a new substance; warm to the touch and similar to natural stone. It’s also what esteemed designed Brunello Cucinelli used to create this exquisite globe. Splicing the material with walnut wood, it’s an objet d’art unlike any other — handmade in the Italian hamlet of Solomeo and perfect for sprucing up your home office.
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
