From watches to whisky: The best gifts for Father’s Day 2024
Whether he’s looking to upgrade his cocktail-making cabinet or boost his grooming game, these are some of the finest tokens of appreciation to give this year
Words: Jonathan Wells
Father’s Day offers up a tricky gift-giving scenario – not quite as important as a birthday, but not so insignificant that you can get by with a card and a present of a slapdash nature. Thankfully, Gentleman’s Journal is on hand, as we’ve trawled the length and breadth of the internet to discover the products that hit that thoughtful-and-useful sweet spot. So, whether your old man – or the father figure in your life – wants to turbocharge his style creds, elevate his grooming gear or needs to add another libation to the cabinet, here are the best ideas to consider…
New threads
If we’re going off stereotypes, fashion and style likely aren’t your father’s strong suits (although, if he’s of a certain trimly tailored generation, he probably has a couple of strong suits). Thankfully, Father’s Day affords us all an opportunity to whip his wardrobe into slick, sophisticated shape.
With summer upon us, we'd begin with a classic short-sleeved polo that can be effortlessly dressed up or down. This version from Luca Faloni is knitted in Northern Italy from 100% organic cotton and features elegant mother of pearl buttons. If he’s looking for a travel essential, there are few more easygoing off-duty options than Hackett's Slim Fit Linen Shirt. Then, for a solid baseline, consider these classic chinos by Mr Marvis, which are appropriate for both the city and countryside.
On the clock
Now we move on to the bigger budget items. A watch may usually be reserved for milestone birthdays or anniversaries, but there’s something sentimental about presenting your father with the gift of time — especially when the wrist armour is as sleek and coveted as the below.
Tudor’s Black Bay 58 GMT is an excellent starting point, with its failsafe, please-all steel case, beautiful black and burgundy bezel and gilt applied hour markers. You can never go wrong with an Omega Seamaster and the updated Planet Ocean dive watch is an excellent choice for both everyday wear and adventure sports. We're also big fans of the new elegant model from the Longines Master Collection, which marries striking aesthetics and the perfect level of playfulness with world-class engineering.
One for the road
A bottle of something strong is a classic Father's Day gift for a reason. This year, rather than swinging by the supermarket and picking up a bargain bottle the day before, try to put a bit of thought into what he’d actually want.
If he leans towards the brown stuff, treat him to a bottle of The Macallan's limited edition single malt 'A Night on Earth: The Journey'. With comforting notes of toasted oak, creamy steamed rice, citrus fruits, vanilla and oat biscuits, it's the perfect tipple to savour in the company of loved ones. For oenophiles, reach for Nyetimber's Tillington Single Vineyard, a summer-ready sparkling wine that elegantly blends Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; or opt for a bottle of Penfolds Bin 28 Shiraz, a full-bodied Australian red with a ripe and robust balance of oak, black and red fruits, smooth chocolate and well-balanced tannins.
Prim and proper
Despite what old-school thinking may say, Father’s Day was made for relaxing and pampering, especially given that this is an occasion for the man who’s put in the hard yards over the years (and will likely need a little rebooting when it comes to his skin- and haircare needs).
Elevate his everyday shower routine with a bottle of Jo Malone's beautifully scented (and just as beautifully packaged) Cypress & Grapevine Body & Hand Wash. If in doubt of his preferred fragrance, go for an all-time-classic spritz – we often fall back on Floris’s No. 89 Eau De Toilette, which sings with rich aromas of bergamot and orange. And a tube of Aesop's cult Purifying Facial Exfoliant Paste is just the thing for dads with dry skin.
It’s all in the Details
Then, of course, if you happen to have already clocked up a fine suite of big-ticket presents for him over the years, a well-crafted accessory – one that is elegant in design, dials in on practicality, and can slip seamlessly into his lifestyle – makes for an extremely nifty present.
Bags are often a reflection of one’s personality and deeper tastes, so it’s an area that’s tricky to navigate – yet, all things considered, the Heritage Medium Clipper by Mulberry, has an understated colour palette and classic silhouette that makes it universally appealing. With the summer months ahead, a season-appropriate suede belt – namely the below, by Slowear – will add texture and a touch of colour to his hot-weather getup. Equally, a characterful Paul Smith tie – such as the Signature Stripe silk tie – will elevate his more formal looks, not only for the coming season, but for the years ahead.
For the outdoorsman
Whether your dad is the die-hard adventurous type or simply enjoys getting out for long walks with the dog, some functional yet equally beautiful gear will encourage him to make the most of the great outdoors.
If he's into cycling (and you're feeling generous), treat him to Cervélo's high-performance Soloist, a lightweight and aerodynamic race bike designed for the week-in, week-out rider. For a classic outerwear piece that he'll cherish for years to come, you can't look past Barbour's iconic Bedale Waxed Jacket, with its relaxed fit, rear vents and signature inner 'drip-strip', to prevent damp from seeping in. Finally, the Cloudultra 2 from On will please any seasoned or aspiring trail runner, thanks to its super-soft cushioning, enhanced grip and knitted sock-like upper.
Want more style suggestions? These are the swim shorts you'll be wearing all summer...
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