Editor’s Picks: Golf Caddy Motorcycle, Jazz Records and Electric G-Wagen
From a pair of new hiker boots from Cheaney to an aluminium camera case from Rimowa, this is what we want this week…
Words: Jonathan Wells
They say necessity is the mother of all invention. But, sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective. Whether it’s the engineers at Mercedes-Benz deciding to breathe new electric life into an automotive icon or Smeg’s kitchenware wizards reinventing our morning cups of coffee, some of the best new products are smart spins on existing ideas.
Take Ray-Ban’s new smart glasses, for example. The Wayfarer frame is hardly new; but pack it with tech including cameras, microphones and speakers, and the legendary design is reborn. So, from a new hybrid yacht from Wally to a two-wheeled twist on the golf cart, here’s what pioneering pieces of kit we want this week…
Leading the charge: Mercedes-Benz ‘EQG’ Electric G-Class
It was only a matter of time. With every classic getting a crack of the electric whip (the Range Rover EV is on its way, and we’ve even got a Ford Mustang SUV?!), the iconic G-Wagen was destined to follow in those sustainably-powered tyre tracks. Mercedes’ all-wheel-drive concept — that will feature 22-inch wheels and two gears — was unveiled at the Munich Motor Show last week.
Daily grind: Smeg Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine
Small yet smart, Smeg’s ‘BCC02’ is the first bean-to-cup coffee machine from the kitchenware company. Using an intuitive soft touch control, this handsome machine is capable of creating a range of coffee styles and grinding levels — and its Thermablock system heats water in a matter of seconds. From ristrettos to macchiatos, that’s your morning sorted.
Zoom in: Ray-Ban ‘Stories’ Smart Glasses
Bear with us; because Ray-Ban’s camera-fitted frames aren’t as gimmicky as they sound. They may been an innovation for the Instagram generation, but the eyewear giant’s latest release maintains the rock ‘n’ roll retro cool of the original design. This time, however, the glasses come fitted with discrete speakers, three built-in microphones, touch control and a five-megapixel camera.
Ring out: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Minute Repeater Supersonnerie
With no ceremony or celebration, the Swiss watchmaker this week introduced two more high-complications to its range. There’s a two-tone CODE 11:59 Tourbillon — but our pick is this Royal Oak Minute Repeater Supersonnerie. With a smoked grey Grand Tapisserie dial and titanium case, it sure looks the part. And, thanks to a series of tiny gongs, this chiming watch sounds the part, too.
Making waves: Wally WHY200 Hybrid Yacht
Announced earlier this year, the first hybrid yacht from Wally finally sailed into view at last week’s Cannes Yachting Festival. Designed by a nautical dream team including Wally, Ferretti and Laurent Giles, the brand is calling this new 88-foot model a ‘spaceship’. And, with a glass-encased owner’s cabin, streamlined lack of side-decks and top speed of 21 knots, it’s not difficult to see why.
Stepping up: Cheaney ‘Bowland C’ Hiker Boot
The latest collection from Cheaney means business. The hard-hitting, heavy-stepping styles take inspiration from military boot designs from the British brand’s archives — and the ‘Bowland C’ boot is perhaps the roughest and readiest of them all. With a Goodyear-welted ‘Veldtschoen Commando’ sole, ski hooks and full leather lining, it’s a sturdy step ahead.
Make your case: Rimowa Aluminium Camera Case
German-engineered from grooved aluminium, Rimowa’s camera case is a vintage-tinged treat. It takes the luggage brand’s signature style and shrinks it down; creating an ultra-resistant shell that’ll protect even the most delicate of devices. Our favourite part? That strap, crafted from full-grain Italian leather.
Turn it up: The Jamaican Jazz Series Subscription
Because who wouldn’t want to get rum and jazz records delivered to their homes once a month? In partnership with Appleton Estate, this subscription service sees musicians including Moses Boyd and Theon Cross curate a hand-picked playlist — that then perfectly pairs with a pre-batched cocktail, premium rum and even a limited edition copper cup.
Leading light: Grand Seiko Mechanical ‘Asakage’ European Exclusive
Earlier this week, Grand Seiko unveiled two brand new, European-exclusive models. It’s a rare move from the Japanese brand — but the watches are classically designed and exceedingly welcome. Together, the pieces are inspired by the interplay of light and shadow (an essential characteristic of traditional Japanese architecture). Our pick of the duo is the ‘Asakage’; with a silvery-cream dial intended to evoke ‘dazzling morning sunlight’.
Driving through: Finn Cycle Golf Motorbike
Built to encourage fast play, the frankly ludicrous-looking Finn Cycle is incredible fun. And it makes a lot of sense, too. Positioning the golf bag on the centreline increases comfort, stability and manoeuvrability. Those low-pressure tyres don’t impact too badly on the green. And no longer will you have to drive to your playing partner’s ball before playing your next shot.
Button it: Drake’s Suede Two-Pocket Overshirt
Equal parts luxurious and hard-wearing, this soft-but-sturdy overshirt from Drake’s is the perfect piece of autumn outerwear. It’s got twin chest pockets for practicality, a slightly elongated collar for added flair and is cut from rich, heavyweight suede to see you from September to next spring in reliable, dependable style.
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
