Gifts for Guys

I'm not really sure what is harder; buying gifts for guys or girls. However, there are probably greater consequences for not getting the right gift for a girl (let me know if you disagree), so I should probably spend a bit more time writing the 'gifts for girls.'

You can't argue with that kind of logic, so let's begin with 'gifts for guys.'

1. Clothes

Buying something that someone would actually wear has to be one of life's great joys. As such, a gift list should include items of clothing. However, everyone has their own fashion sense so it's extremely hard to undertake a one size fits all approach. As a general rule, good quality, simplistic designs with timeless potential will always be the most successful gifts. Focus on colours such as colours such as greys, navys and blacks. Leave the more out there colours and designs to the individual (note: a grey kenzo tiger is not a timeless piece). For basic ideas, you could consult my essentials posts (links here - Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3) or for more significant occasions you could also consider the items on my Wishlist (link here - Part 1). If after all this, you still have no idea, perhaps you could consider these two items.

Sport coat

A 'timeless' sport coat is a wardrobe staple for any male. Something in the timeless colours (grey, navy and black) will always be a great gift. Even if the guy loves his street fashion and you just can't picture him in a blazer, just remember that everyone will have to attend a 'fancy' occasion at some point in time. It will be times like this that he'll be thankful for your thoughtful gift. Good quality sport coats can get pricey very quickly. So as a general rule, get something in wool such as this navy jacket from Zara.

Lounge Pants

Comfort is everything these days. This makes comfortable lounge or jersey pants one of the new essential items. Once again, get something tasteful in timeless colours such as these ones from Ralph Lauren or Calvin Klein and you'll have purchased a great gift.

2. Storage

I think it's quite safe to say that guys like to 'collect' things just as much as girls. This means they are going to need a place to store these things. For the young professional, this will most likely consist of watches, cufflinks and tie pins. As such, I recommend getting a personalised valet box. Sure you could get an accessory box from Smythson but if you're like me, a tasteful personalised gift will win out every time. 

Also, the valet box will likely be a centre piece item. This means you'll be in the centre of their thoughts, if that's a priority...

3. Document Holder

Most guys that would use a messenger bag will either have one or have one on their radar. Similar to a 'significant watch', the messenger bag is an item that should be chosen by the individual as they form their professional identity.

However, one item that might not be on their radar is a document holder. Every guy should have one of these. Great for meetings or when travelling short distances, the document holder is a must. The messenger bag is better for a commute but if you need quick access with a 'less is more' vibe, a document holder wins out every time. This is something that he'll use for years to come so try to get something timeless like this document holder from Mulberry.

4. Camera

Buying the 'right' camera can often be very difficult because there are many people that think they are 'professionals' when it come to photography (think of the person that has a $2500 DSLR but probably couldn't shoot your face in focus from 3 feet away). 

Even if they do know how to use their DSLR, unless it's a wedding etc they are going to look like a tool if they bring it out. As such, perhaps consider the following cameras to 'compliment' their prized possession. I'm not an expert on cameras but I've never been disappointed when using these cameras.

Compact Camera

Everyone needs a good compact camera. As such, why not consider the Sony WX350 or the pricier Sony RX100M2. Both are great for what they offer and I'd be surprised if you can find a better camera in their class.

Action Camera

You've seen the videos of the dog running to the beach and you've probably seen countless live action snow videos. That's the beauty of the Go Pro Hero 4+. There's so many uses for it. You just gotta get creative.

5. Speakers

Lets face it, everyone likes to listen to music. However, many people do not have a good quality portable speaker (myself included). I don't know how many times I've been somewhere and I've thought it would be great to have some tunes. Thus, as we are trying to find 'quality' items that people wouldn't buy themselves, why not consider the SoundLink® Colour Bluetooth® speaker from Bose. I've been seriously tempted to get one of these for a while. Don't take my word for it though. Have a look at the review on CNET and make up your own mind.

So there you have it. 5 Items to think about. Just remember the best gifts are ones that the recipient would like but probably wouldn't pay for. Stay tuned for Gifts for Girls.

#Hanbaobao

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Why You Should Own A Significant Watch

In life there are very few things that are truly important. Almost everything in this world is superficial and if it wasn't for clever marketing, we wouldn't own half the stuff that we do.

However, what is important is that you quantify significant landmarks. This doesn't necessarily need to be with a physical gift (although it definitely one of the easiest ways to do it). In any case, the way in which you quantify it must has significant meaning. It should not only represent where you are currently at but also how much more you still have to go. Without this, the gift is meaningless.

For most people, the gift you pick/get given for your 21st birthday or graduation present will say a lot about you and what you may achieve in the next 10 years. It is essentially your next building block. This is why I say you should own a significant watch. Similar to the Tiffany key, a significant watch is a sign of passage from child to adult or from amateur to professional. However, a watch goes far beyond that. The watch you choose reveals a lot about your state of mind. If you choose one that is a passing fad, chances are you currently don't have high aspirations and this may lead to struggles in a few years time when you are forced to play catch up. If you choose one that is so fancy that you can't wear it often, chances are you may be chasing something unrealistic. Ultimately, you should choose one that reflects your personality and your goals. 

For my graduation present, I bought myself the Calibre 6 from Tag Heuer.

Calibre 6 Heritage

To me the Calibre 6 represented a number of things.

1. It showed that if I work hard, then I can succeed in my goals

2. It was a watch that would age with me over the 10 years

3. I like a life of luxury and if I wanted this to continue I would have to continue to work hard

4. It was not the top model, which reminded me of the long way I still had to go

5. The fine craftsmanship shows I like attention to detail

6. The stylish design matches my Montblanc collection...

Choosing something that constantly gives you some purpose in life or serves as a reminder that you are building towards something, is a great thing. It will help you quantify those times when things are crap and you have to question if it's all worth it. It's your go to place in a moment of self doubt. It is the motivation to get up in the morning.

Don't fret if you hate your graduation present though. You can always change things you don't like about yourself. What is important is to understand why you made those decisions and then if you choose to quantify future landmarks, make sure they serve a purpose.

I'm not sure yet what is next for me. However, when I do, I hope to see you there too. 

#Hanbaobao

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