Editor’s Picks: Morgan Plus 8, Shackleton Jacket and Vertex Watch
From a cashmere dressing gown from New & Lingwood to a 44-year-old whisky from Carsebridge, this is what we want this week…
Words: Jonathan Wells
Think fashion and function are mutually exclusive? Think again. There are plenty of products — from garments to gadgets — that deftly walk the fine line between practicality and style. And, whether it’s a simple shirt crafted from durable corduroy, a refined off-road car or a sophisticated stainless steel wristwatch, we’re great admirers of such range at Gentleman’s Journal.
This week’s Editor’s Picks raises a glass to this versatility (glasses full of two of the tastiest whiskies we’ve sampled all year). There’s a cashmere dressing gown, a weather-beating parka and a distinctive watch roll with a strong, Kevlar core. Take a look…
Raise a glass: Carsebridge 44-Year-Old Whisky
44 years is a long time. It’s time enough for delectable, delicate flavours to mature and age — and this rare single cask bottling of Carsebridge is brimming with notes of exotic mango chutney, toasted almonds and raisin fudge. Only 81 bottles will be sold by Justerini & Brooks, so you’d better act fast.
Wrapped up: New & Lingwood Black Watch Dressing Gown
Understated and subtly checked, this ‘Black Watch’ dressing gown lacks the bold bombast of New & Lingwood’s usual robes. But we’re rather taken by its pared-down approach; crafted from cashmere, finished with black twist piping and tied together with a high lustre matching belt. Perfect for winter mornings.
Heaven scent: Penhaligon’s ‘Cairo’ Eau de Parfum at Bicester Village
There are few things you can’t find at Bicester Village. But, of the many boutiques to be discovered at the luxury shopping destination, Penhaligon’s is perhaps our favourite; overflowing as it is with scents such as this. ‘Cario’ centres on exquisite ‘Damascena’ rose notes, and lingers with aromas of patchouli and vanilla.
Having a gas: Lexus ROV Concept
This new hydrogen-powered off-roader from Lexus looks like fun on four wheels. It’s sped straight from the future; with a high-pressure tank housing the compressed fuel and injecting it into a reasonably conventional combustion engine. But it’s that styling that we really love — somewhere between a beach buggy and a lunar rover.
Zip it: Shackleton 'Haakon' Tactical Parka
‘Tactical’ may be an understatement. Among the many technical tricks tucked into the ‘Haakon’ jacket from Shackleton: a 100% recycled monofibre fabric construction; an option to zip the ‘Black Ross’ down gilet into the parka; RDS-certified 850-fill goose down; micro fleece lined hand warming pockets; velcro fastenings, waist tension and pit zips. We could go on.
Deep dive: Vertex M60 AquaLion
The first purpose-built dive watch from Vertex, this stainless steel timepiece is directly linked to the work of Claude Lyons — who founded the firm back in 1916. It features a scratch-resistant matte ceramic bezel, power reserve of 42 hours and a dial with moulded hour markers drenched in highly-legible Super-LumiNova X1.
Time travel: Bennett Winch Single Watch Roll
Although the Vertex above can look after itself, a little extra protection never hurts. Thankfully, Bennett Winch are on hand (or should that be wrist?) with this striking single watch roll. Cut from Kevlar and handmade in London using Tuscan leather panels and an Alcantara lining, it’s a rigid roll with an enduring, distinctive design.
Whisky business: J.G. Thomson & Co. 23-Year-Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
A new brand from Edinburgh, J.G. Thomson & Co’s first collection of small batch spirits is a one-stop shop for all your Christmas drink needs. Our pick of the seven-strong range is this; a 23-year-old blended malt created using Speyside whiskies. Boasting notes of dried cranberries, spiced red apples and cake mix, it’s a festive treat.
Button it: Percival ‘Vincent’ Jacket
Every man needs a simple, sophisticated, transitional jacket in his wardrobe, and there is no better option than this. Cut in the Percival signature jacket style and fabricated in a soft cotton suede, the ‘Vincent’ is a modern take on a retro look; with button closure, soft collar and practical pockets. An essential — if ever we wore one.
Out of the blue: Morgan Plus 8 GTR
This blisteringly cool new Morgan sees the British brand reignite one of its most heroic legacy models with a ‘gloves off’ special edition. Powered by a BMW N62 4.8-litre engine, just nine examples will be built — and each customer will be invited to customise their car alongside the Morgan design team. If we were them, we’d stick with this bright, bold blue for the paint job.
Praise the cord: Aubin ‘Brigg’ Relaxed Cord Shirt
Like the Percival jacket above, this ‘Brigg’ shirt from Aubin is a seasonal essential. Crafted from corduroy — originally a workwear fabric — it’s as durable a garment as you could wish for, and comes cut with similarly practical patch pockets, button cuffs and a relaxed, versatile fit. Invest, and thank us later.
Want more of the best gear money can buy? Check out last week’s Editor’s Picks…
Become a Gentleman’s Journal member. Find out more here.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
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
