Editor’s Picks: Tiffany table tennis paddles, Breitling Aviator and Yorkshire whisky
From a lightweight Barbour jacket perfect for autumn to a pair of wire-frame sunglasses for the winter months, this is what we want this week...
Words: Jonathan Wells
Why should practicality and luxury be mutually exclusive? It’s a question we often ask ourselves at Gentleman’s Journal, and one we’re more than happy for brands to prove us wrong on. This week, we’ve rounded up some of the best products that blend fashion and function — while remaining impudently opulent.
So, including a practical jumper with a chic design, an unashamedly upscale umbrella and a pair of precious metal and rare wood table tennis paddles, read on for our most practical — if extravagant — Editor’s Picks yet.
Wax lyrical: Barbour Lutz Wax Jacket
Designed for protection in even the worst weather, this heavyweight sports jacket from outerwear heavyweight Barbour is the perfect layer to see in the colder months. Part of the heritage British brand’s Original Classic Tartan collection, this smart jacket boasts a warm funnel collar lined with luxurious corduroy and complete with a buckle-fastened strap.
Flying high: Breitling Aviator 8 B01 Chronograph 43 Mosquito
During World War II, the de Havilland Mosquito was the fastest plane in the skies. Thanks to its lightweight construction, the British aircraft has soared to legendary status, and Breitling’s latest chronograph celebrates the legacy of this great machine. Powered by the Swiss brand’s in-house Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01 movement, it features a brushed steel bezel, black dial and contrasting silver chronograph counters.
God's own whisky: Filey Bay Single Malt Scotch
Yorkshire is known for many things; puddings, terriers, tea. But single malt Scotch is a decidedly new speciality for the region. The Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery has just launched its Filey Bay First Release, a whisky matured predominantly in first-fill bourbon casks and boasting a subtle sherry influence. Just 16 casks were laid down in 2016, so if you want to bag a bottle of this creamy, fruity spirit, you’d better invest now.
Cold snap sneakers: North 89 No-2 Caramel Weatherproof Sneakers
If you feel like the wintry weather calls for a pair of rugged brown leather boots, but you just can’t shake your summer sneaker habit, North 89 is on hand — or should that be foot? — with a caramel-coloured compromise. Weatherproof, waterproof and with luxurious Italian suede detailing, these No. 2 kicks will take you functionally and fashionably through the cold snap.
In the bag: Tanner Krolle Sportsman Travel Bag
British luggage wizard Tanner Krolle has been creating top-of-the-line bags since 1856. That’s over a century-and-a-half of mastering its craft, and this new Sportsman Travel Bag is the epitome of its streamlined, spirited brand of luxury. Based in Belgravia, if you decide to follow in the footsteps of royalty and invest in a Tanner Krolle bag, you’ll be afforded the opportunity to customise your luggage with the monogram or design of your choice.
Earn your stripes: Francesco Maglia Striped Umbrella
For five generations, the Francesco Maglia family has been sheltering its discerning customers from the rain. As slick as a Savile Row suit, this Italian-made accessory is pinstriped, constructed with a curved chestnut wood handle, and fitted with a wind-resistant canopy. A practical yet statement addition to your winter wardrobe, you can rely on the painstaking process that the Italian brand has spent decades perfecting.
Bristol fashion: S.N.S Herning Ribbed Wool Sweater
Exactly 100 years ago, Danish knitwear brand S.N.S Herning invented its innovative ‘bubble knit’. Developed to keep North Sea fishermen warm in cold weather, the design is just as practical today; spun from insulating wool with textured stripes and ribbed crew neck, cuffs and hem. What’s more, this grey-green roll neck sweater looks enviably stylish as it goes about its business — and would cut as significant a dash in a townhouse as it would on a trawler.
Roll up: Alban Roll Top Technical Backpack
Everyone needs a good backpack for their commute. And, if you’ve decided to go a different way than leather, we’ve got just the technical-grade, internally padded, heavy duty suggestion for you. Alban’s new backpack is ideal for those who run or cycle to work, is sartorially savvy enough for even the most highfalutin business meeting and — for the Great British weather — is 100 per cent waterproof.
Your serve: Tiffany Leather and Walnut Table Tennis Paddles
Occasionally, we like excess for the sake of excess. And, from Tiffany & Co, these table tennis paddles are the sterling-silver, walnut-crafted, leather-bound definition of excess. So, even if your backhand loop needs some practice, or your forehand flick is a little lacking, it’s unlikely your opponent will even notice when you flash these handcrafted beauties their way.
Wire-framed winter: Cubitts Calshot Fold Sunglasses
There’s a common misconception that sunglasses are accessories exclusively for summer. Not so. Rather, when you hit the slopes this winter, your sunglasses will be just as indispensable as your skis themselves. We’d go wire-framed for winter, and few styles are better than Cubitts’ Calshot design, with a timelessly stylish folding metal frame and filigree rim.
Looking for more of the best gear money can buy? Check out last week’s Editor’s Picks here…
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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
