The defining items that make a man a gentleman

When it comes to possessions, a gentleman knows that it’s not about the endless buying of paraphernalia that marks out good taste, but choice investment in items that truly make a difference. It’s not about being materialistic, but about understanding the true value that ticking certain things off your wish list can have.

And ultimately, whether you own a quality fountain pen or luxury supercar, it will not only make you a more interesting man, but will guarantee you gentlemanly respect – and this is exactly what people will remember you for…

It won’t come as a surprise that every gentleman deserves to own a car that makes getting behind the wheel a treat rather than a chore. And whilst we agree that each man has their own eye for their dream car, it just so happens we’re rather fond of the Eagle Spyder GT. Need we say more?

‘A gentleman is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.’ Actually that was Gandalf, and the subject was wizards rather than gentlemen, but that’s beside the point.

The valuable lesson to take away from this otherwise excellent quote is that a gentleman’s wrist should never be without a quality watch, and that this watch is not simply an accessory; timekeeping is essential. Constantly glancing at an iPhone screen simply isn’t the way to go about it.

What’s more, the Swiss watch is the sole accessory guaranteed to overhaul your appearance – and it’s worth noting which watches are worn by the world’s most powerful men, too.

Adam Fussell

Is there any way a man can be classed as a gentleman when wearing a suit made to the specifications of the general masses, rather than his own careful stipulations? Probably, but it would take a lot more effort than the transformative effects of a bespoke suit.

Once you’ve made the transition into the realms of bespoke tailoring you can hardly fail to understand what all the fuss is about. Just make sure you know which tailor is right for you and your needs.

Crockett & Jones

It’s remarkable how easily the impression created by a carefully constructed outfit can be shattered by a pair of shoes that are simply not up to scratch.

Every gentleman needs at least one pair that he can rely on, whatever the occasion. Make sure you build your collection around the most iconic styles, and never underestimate a quality pair of boots, too.

Holland and Holland

Whether it be for the wild moorland scenery or a day of driven grouse, challenging yourself to the highest pheasants, or simply indulging in some off-season clay practice, a gentleman should never be without an elegant pair of shotguns to do justice to his skill. Whether you opt for over-and-under or side-by-side, perfect fit, flawless design and slick functionality are a must.

Elektra shot by Mitch Payne for GJ

A coffee enthusiast (who isn’t?) ought to be investing in a decent coffee machine. You’re investing in supreme flavour, your reputation as a host, and the most refined way of achieving your morning caffeine fix.

Queuing in a jumble of shuffling commuters – only to walk back out and stride half way down the street before discovering that, not only is your takeaway cup filled with a milky latte rather than the flat white you ordered, but the coffee is burnt to the point of undrinkability – is simply not the way a gentleman starts his day, not for Steve McQueen at least.

Eames Lounge Chair

How a gentleman chooses to fill his home says a lot about his character and state of mind. Be it a desk, a beautiful coffee table, or a luxurious leather armchair, make sure your choice of centrepiece item says the right thing about you.

There is nothing more reassuring to the discerning dinner guest than the presence of a tastefully filled wine rack. It’s all very well having connoisseur-worthy knowledge, but truly impressive mastery requires the aesthetics to match.

Telling as much of practicality as it does of sophisticated taste, it would hardly be right to attempt to entertain guests in true gentlemanly style without one.

A compact e-reader may be all very well for the morning commute, but it doesn’t give quite the same impression of education and open-mindedness when leaning against the wall of one’s front room. A tasteful selection of literature is a subtle reminder of a gentleman who understands the true and timeless value of the written word.

No gentleman should be seen scrawling away with a battered old biro, forced to scribble at the edges of the page every so often to maintain a legible flow of ink. To be able to whip out an elegant silver fountain pen as needed is underestimated as a subtle denominator of good taste. Not only that, but the chances of your words looking more authoritative than if they were written by a pre-school graduate are decidedly improved.

Recommended reading: What really makes a man a gentleman

Main image: Mont Blanc, featured image: Aline & Jacqueline Tappia, styled by Holly Macnaghten.