Editor’s Picks: Sony Camera Drone, McLaren Artura and Cigar Case
From a new Grand Seiko ‘White Birch’ Edition to the latest high-performance jacket from ThruDark, this is what we want this week…
Words: Jonathan Wells
This week, we’re seeing red. But it’s less out of anger; more out of admiration. From the burgundy grain of Cheaney’s latest Chelsea boots to the slick brick linen of Frescobol Carioca’s new summer tailoring, most of this week’s neatest new releases just happened to be hued in a rich ruby red.
There’s McLaren’s scarlet hybrid supercar, ThruDark’s deep crimson Engage Jacket and even a smoking claret cigar case from James J. Fox of London. So, from the cardinal to the carmine, savour the rich tones of this week’s Editor’s Picks — and then wash them all down with a choice bottle of red. (Because there’s one of those on here, too).
Got your six: ThruDark SF Engage Jacket
In Obsidian Black, Olive Green or the Crimson Red above, ThruDark’s latest piece of high-performance outerwear is an impressive piece of kit. The SF Engage Jacket was developed with military know-how, and is crafted practically to be lightweight, water repellent, breathable and still allow for 4-way stretch and freedom of movement. Get ready to wage war against inclement weather.
Leading the charge: McLaren Artura
Launched today, McLaren’s latest supercar is all-new, super-stylish and a hybrid beacon of next-generation car-making. Built on the British brand’s Carbon Lightweight Architecture (CLA), it weighs just 1,498kg and can accelerate up to 100kph in just 3.0 seconds — thanks to a powertrain that marries an all-new twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine to an E-motor and energy-dense battery pack.
Stamp it out: Cheaney Brecon C Veldtschoen Chelsea Boot
‘Veldtschoen’ may be a mouthful — but it’ll also treat you to a bootload of comfort. Similar to Goodyear welting, a ‘Veldtschoen’ shoe stitches its leather upper above the welt, and increases water resistance as a result. Cheaney’s new burgundy grain Brecon boots benefit from the method; standing proudly on Itshide Commando rubber soles and fully lined with leather.
Put down roots: Respira Natural Air Purifier
From masks to dehumidifiers, the air filtration industry is booming. But this is the first home air purifier to really grab our green-fingered attention. From Respira, this smart garden brings together advanced smart technology and various shrubs to create a naturally evolved, reliable (and very striking) method of air filtration. Who knew a hydroponic living wall could look so stylish?
Truth in wine: Musar Jeune Rouge Gaston Hochar 2017
What list of red would be complete without a bottle of the stuff? And we’ve found just the wine. From Lebanon’s burgeoning Bekaa Vally — a new mecca of middle-eastern winemaking — Musar’s Jeune Rouge is a deep, dark ruby red, and has aromas of blackcurrants, blueberries, black cherries and violets. It’s intensely fruity, incredibly silky — and topped with a hint of spice.
Out of the woods: Grand Seiko SLGH005 ‘White Birch’
Let’s take a break from red for a minute — and focus on white. This latest limited edition from Grand Seiko takes its mesmerising inspiration from the white birch tree forests of Shizukuishi, mere miles from where the watchmaker’s studio sits. Part of the ‘Series 9 Design’ line, there are aesthetic nods to the region all over the watch — from that singular dial texture to the bridge, which gently curves to evoke the silhouette of Mount Iwate.
Smoke show: James J. Fox Three Finger Cigar Case
There are several accessories a true cigar aficionado should own. A smoking jacket, for one. A quality humidor, for a second. And a third? A cigar case. From London legends James J. Fox, this three finger case is the perfect choice. It may be subtle and small — but that deep, rich red leather belies the true luxury of your sumptuous, smoky pastime.
Suit yourself: Asphalte Fresco Suit
This week, Asphalte’s traditionally-cut two-piece suit becomes available for pre-order. We’ve been lucky enough to try out the Fresco Suit ahead of its launch; slipping into the trimly tailored trousers and pulling on the lightweight jacket for ourselves — and can attest to its quality. From the breathable ‘Fresco’ fabric to the sturdy side-adjusters, it’s a multi-purpose, multi-seasonal, dash-cutting option for the modern man.
Seeing red: Frescobol Carioca Zanini Blazer
Speaking of tip-top tailoring, Frescobol Carioca has this week launched its tropical SS21 collection. This Zanini Blazer immediately caught our eye; designed in collaboration with style icon Johannes Huebl. It’s cut from the finest Italian linen to a double-breasted shape — and that brick red colour means it’ll stand out on even the most bustling of boardwalks.
Take off: Sony Airpeak Drone
Most drones that take to the skies these days have cameras built-in; 4K, motion-stabilised bits of kit that can capture some pretty serious shots. But Sony has taken its tech one step further. Rather than relying on an on-board camera, the electronics giant has whipped up a drone that can carry its existing, industry-leading Alpha model — with serious power, four rotors and arms to stabilise flight.
Crime and punishment: Fall: The Mystery of Robert Maxwell
Our final touch of red is a read. And a gripping one at that. Written by A Very English Scandal author John Preston, this page-turner tells the tale of Robert Maxwell; charting the meteoric rise and ignominious fall of the notorious mogul and swindler — from his being awarded the Military Cross in World War 2, to the long-hidden debts and unscrupulous dealings that came to light after his death.
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
