November 11, 2015December 28, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Theo and Harris Vintage Watches

A Rolex Datejust is just one of the many terrific vintage options on rotation from Theo & Harris. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Editor’s note: For more Style Q&A entries featuring everyone from Megan Collins of Style Girlfriend to Barron Cuadro of Effortless Gent, click here.

If you read this blog, you know I have a passion for watches. While I have a list of “holy grail” watches I hope to own one day (a Shinola Runwell and an Omega Seamaster among them), I also appreciate simple, uncluttered, solid everyday watches. That means timepieces like an Invicta Pro Diver , which I’m wearing as I write this post, and a great leather dress watch from Daniel Wellington. But there’s a certain breed of watches that up until earlier this year, I wasn’t too familiar with — vintage timepieces.

My friend Christian Zeron, co-founder of start-up vintage watch collector Theo and Harris, first brought his fresh-out-of-the-gates company to my attention earlier this year. I covered them for VOUCH Mag this past summer, and here’s where it gets interesting — Theo & Harris sources, authenticates and sells all manner of vintage mechanical wristwatches, offering a plethora of coveted and rare timepieces along the way (seriously, prepare to be amazed by the company’s archive). That they’ve built such an archive since launching in February of this year is quite impressive, to say the least. Specifically, we’re looking at 200 watches (and counting) sold to 10 different countries in about 9 months, and their current collection is only growing. And if you want to experience even more watch envy, check out the Theo and Harris Instagram. Vintage watches are, of course, expensive by nature. And if you’re fortunate enough to own a vintage watch as a family heirloom, that’s a special story that only you have. However, there is an argument for investing in a beautiful vintage watch. So while you mull on that (and perhaps peruse the Theo and Harris site), I do hope you peel your eyes away long enough to read what Christian had to say on his interest in vintage watches and most importantly, why you (yes, you) should own a vintage watch. Again, I’ll only stick around to ask the questions.

The Style Guide: Tell me about how you got into vintage watch collecting?

Theo & Harris: Initially, my interest in watches was purely aesthetic. I was, and still am, very into watches that have a unique look and style; but as the interest became an addiction I began studying history, mechanics and technical design- being an enthusiast is a full time job on its own. I never owned many watches for myself though. Actually, the only watch I consider mine is the first one I ever bought — a Rolex Datejust reference 1601 with a brilliant blue dial.

TSG: During your time scouting out vintage timepieces, what have you noticed that separates these watches from their modern-day counterparts?

T&H: Value. There are some makers out there … that turn out some tremendously well-valued watches comparable to their equally priced counterparts. However, as a whole, modern watches are built in factories, by machine and without heart and then become, for some reason, painfully expensive. In vintage, I work everyday with watches under $800 that were designed by industry legends, assembled by hand and made to last.

Vintage watches go well with all sorts of outfits if you pick the right timepiece, according to the brand.

TSG: How can a vintage watch set one apart stylistically?

T&H: The whole point of developing a style is to most accurately depict yourself through colors, textures, patterns (and) fits. With a modern watch shop selling only 5 brands, maybe 50 watches total, it’s impossible for everyone to actually be choosing what they want.

If 1,000 people are wearing the same 50 watches, they’re settling. Imagine if the whole world had to pick from 50 T-shirts to wear.

In vintage, you’re dealing with hundreds of brands and over 100 years of production. I can guarantee that there is, somewhere out there, the perfect watch for everyone. Luckily, finding them is my job.

TSG: What’s one vintage watch brand those looking to get into the vintage watch game should look for, if any?

T&H: Omega. Don’t get me wrong, there are dozens of other makers that I couldn’t live without but Omega is, at least to me, king. Foremost, they were all built with great attention to detail and obvious care. The movements are absolutely beautiful to look at and rather easy to service when needed. As far as design, Omega has drawn up some of the most classic watches ever to hit the wrist. Lastly, their product line is so incredibly vast that it caters to suits, soccer fields, boardrooms and the moon.

A vintage watch can work in many of the same situations as a regular timepiece — just don’t be afraid to rock. Photo courtesy of Theo & Harris.

TSG: What are the qualities or characteristics that set apart a really “good” vintage watch, or at least one that’s still in good shape?

T&H: First, I work with, and wear, vintage watches all day of every day and my taste, although acknowledges, doesn’t prefer “good” from “fair” condition across the board. If I’m looking for a military watch from the Vietnam War, I want one that looks like it’s been beaten to hell. Every detail of wear, every nick or scuff is a piece of an inconceivably long story of this time traveler’s life. However, on all watches, the important elements to look out for are an unpolished or lightly polished case, a clean and properly functioning movement and an original dial. Those characteristics are always important, regardless of the style or period of the watch you’re looking at.

TSG: What are some ways to make sure you’re getting a fairly priced, authentic timepiece?

T&H: Remember, with watches comes more than 100 years of history, design, mechanics and an evil industry profiting off of the replication of all of it. Sure, anyone can try their hand at this tricky slope but to really be able to discern for yourself, there’s a whole lot of studying ahead. If that’s you’re thing, then you’ll never stop reading and loving every second of it. The reality, however, is that not everyone wants to be a full-time expert in everything they enjoy. For those people, they’ll have to find someone they can trust. A shop that’ll do all of the sourcing and sifting for them, a shop that will take all of the risk.

TSG: What’s one thing you’ve learned since getting into the watch business that people might not expect?

T&H: In the past seven months I’ve learned, more than anything else, how to listen ever so carefully to my audience. For example, since we’ve started, we’ve redesigned our website from head to toe three separate times and we don’t go a week without minor alterations. That’s not to say I didn’t love each iteration of our virtual home base but I’ve learned how to read customer feedback, whether thats an email or a huge analytic, and tailor our services accordingly. With our website design, it not only has to be pleasing to view but also interactive to the point that it dynamically presents each of our products to our viewers just as well as I could in person over a drink. Getting into this, I really thought it would be 100% about our watches but with time, I’ve come to realize that, besides our excellent collection, there needs to be an equal experience.

What are your thoughts on vintage watches? Have you ever considered owning one, or do you own one already? What’s the story behind it?

As always folks — thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

November 7, 2015November 6, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Shinola + Golden Bear Wool Bomber

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

The popular watch brand tapped the equally iconic team at Golden Bear for this bomber.

If you swung through this very small piece of the blogosphere pie a few weeks back, you might recall the jacket you see here from the Best Men’s Fall Jackets feature — but we’re back again. And that’s simple — both in-person and even online, it’s pretty neat to see how Shinola is evolving its product selection, which now includes some sweatshirts. The American brand probably better known for its crisp, classic watches prides itself on its commitment to homegrown partnerships, so it was a smart move to tap the expert jacket makers at Golden Bear for this wool bomber. Beyond this viewpoint, it’s simply a great (and yes, expensive) piece of outerwear if you find yourself frequently trekking through the snow and slush. It plays off a classic masculine silhouette, the A-2 bomber, and features premium details like leather trim and a sturdy brass zipper. It’s these little details — plus the overall excellent look — that make it worth that price tag. On the less expensive end of things, you could always snap up another shearling bomber via JackThreads.

It’s also available in Black, although the Grey color still works plenty well for fall & winter.

But back to this Shinola number. On top of those other details, the authentic sheepskin shearling collar buttons at the throat too, in case it gets insanely cold. The Melton wool should also keep you extra warm. There’s no word yet on how these jackets fit, but from the looks of it, they’ll feature a modern, contemporary fit that still leaves room for layering. Keep in mind that once you get past all the bells and whistles, this jacket can be styled like even a more basic light grey peacoat would. It’ll add a terrific amount of texture to dark denim and some crisp leather sneakers, and you can certainly dress it up with some navy trousers, brown leather wingtip boots and a light blue dress shirt. And with a long-sleeve henley and some corduroys, you’ll have the perfect high-low combination for weekend adventures. Given the investment-worthy nature of the price, you’ll certainly want to wear it as much as possible.

Are you a fan of this bomber jacket? Would you invest in this piece?

October 19, 2015October 19, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Jackets for Fall

Editor’s note: Check out more Online Shopping Picks here.

When we last chatted here at the ol’ Style Guide HQ, we were talking, among other things, about great gear to carry you through fall transitions. There’s a lot that can fall under that umbrella, however — from rugged henleys to crisp blazers and tough boots. But today, we’re talking specifically about outerwear. It’s not quite the weather for a super-refined and heavier topcoat as of yet, but it’s presumably colder than situations where you might just wear a simple long-sleeve tee. And we’re looking for styles that can lend some rugged appeal to dressier outfits, as well as a bit o’ casual cool. So, we’re right in the middle. That means everything from field coats to sweater-jackets are on the table. The picks below encapsulate just a few of the many styles you might find yourself wanting to reach for before it gets incredibly cold — best read up and do some shopping now!

#1. J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Denim Bomber — $298

An in-between jacket that’s highly versatile.

$298? For a denim jacket? Wallace & Barnes definitely represents the pricier iteration of J. Crew’s classic styles, but it seems the outerwear from this particular line is always quite well-done. And this denim bomber fuses a terrific silhouette with the unique styling touches of dark denim … on your top half. It’s definitely a splurge, but it can be styled over everything from an olive henley to a nice chambray shirt. And it’ll fade over time as it gets broken in, lending a distinctive touch to a piece you can really call your own.

#2. Shinola + Golden Bear Men’s Wool Bomber Jacket — $495

An unexpected take on the bomber jacket from a brand that excels in accessories.

Is that price eye-popping? Yes. Is this an aspirational piece you might pin to a Wish List board? Indeed. But Shinola is a brand that’s really nailed their identity as far as crafting rugged-refined pieces you didn’t know you were missing until now — like the above bomber jacket. Bringing on the team at Golden Bear is perhaps the best way to make an entry into that category, as well. It’s a big-time luxury piece that updates a military silhouette, like its J. Crew brethren up top. It’d be a great jacket to reach for on those windier days closer to winter — and in the months thereafter. The most versatile thing about it is the fact that it can instantly elevate any outfit, from jeans and wingtip boots to some slim corduroys.

#3. Old Navy Quilted Bomber Jacket — $54.94

Simple style at a super-affordable price.

Now that cost above is more like it, right? Old Navy has been quietly upping their style credibility these past few years, and they’ve even outsold their loftier counterparts at Banana Republic and the like (witness their president leaving for Ralph Lauren as proof of this evolution). This bomber is a nice example of how they’ve made some waves. It’s not a piece that’ll turn a crazy amount of heads, but it’s affordably priced, versatile and able to handle both rains and fall breezes; the trickiest part about it is that black color, which is less versatile than navy or grey. But if worn casually, it should still fit right in over a henley and some brown chukka boots.

#4. Land’s End Quilted Shirt-Jacket — $89.99

Two shades of blue plus some unique details make this a great go-between.

Land’s End is another brand that, much like Old Navy, has worked hard as of late to bolster its credibility in the style space. This quilted shirt-jacket is but one of the unexpected ways in which they’re making that effort. It’s a unique piece that’s not quite a full-on jacket, but should still do well layered over everything from a henley (that’s a style suggestion that won’t quit!) to another chambray shirt. Pair this one with some slim chinos for a transitional look and see how it suits you.

#5. Combatant Gentleman Wool Club Jacket — $120

A moto-inspired style done up in a versatile color.

For a brand that’s normally known for its ridiculously affordable suits and trim blazers, Combatant Gentleman has done a nice job expanding into other product categories. And as far as fall style goes, this wool jacket certainly fits the bill. Like the Old Navy piece above, it’s not a style that’s going to turn an incredible amount of heads, but the color is versatile, the fit looks to be trim and it seems to be a nicely functional piece of outerwear. That dark navy color makes it quite sleek, as well.

Putting together this list was definitely a tricky ordeal, as so many brands have really looked to their fall outerwear to set themselves apart. J. Crew Factory, with its Utility Jacket, has certainly done a nice job filling a budget niche. And the entire outerwear collection at Bonobos has some stunning pieces — pricey, but stunning. Be sure to pick up one of these styles now to bridge that gap — and head to this piece on transitional fall style to get a look at how to wear ’em.

Stay stylish and thanks, as always, for reading.

-Beau

October 5, 2015October 6, 2015 by Beau H.

Coast to coast: Capping off a weekend in Los Angeles

A casual outfit for a casual (yet busy!) L.A. weekend (picture taken outside Angel City Brewing). Rust V-neck by Pistol Lake. Dark denim by Mott & Bow. Navy sneakers by GREATS Brand. Sunglasses by Randolph Engineering. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

After a rather exhausting cross-country flight, the book is closed on my trip to Los Angeles. And what a trip it was. Cramming lots into a weekend can sometimes be difficult and overwhelming to do when traveling, but I can definitely say I have a newfound appreciation for the city (even moreso than I did before), and there was zero stress in getting around; it was absolutely worth being just a bit tired today at the ole’ desk job, too. Luckily, I was able to navigate the city in style, and I found what I packed to be just enough, with a few exceptions.

A highlight of the trip was a Friday evening (or rather, a late Friday night) spent at Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, an eclectic bar styled like what can only be described as a cool, albeit 70’s-themed, house party. It’s a must-visit bar with a neat outdoor patio area and (crucially, cheap brews. I made use of my Mott & Bow denim and a United By Blue pocket T-shirt (unfortunately not line now) that transitioned smoothly from travel (along with my Grayers Russel Baseball Jacket) into a night on the town. Having versatile layers that keep you comfortable is key when traveling and making quick changes on the go, and those items served me well. I also was pleased with how my Timberland Coulter Chukka Boots held up during the transition from travel to sightseeing (although I picked up this pair through my day job, I’d recommend everyone grab a reliable pair of trusty leather chukka boots for all kinds of style situations).

Spending some more time outside Angel City Brewing before sampling some terrific beers.

As we rallied from a less-than-optimal night of sleep to watch our beloved Michigan State Spartans beat Purdue, I again turned to my Mott & Bow denim – they’re an exceptionally comfortable pair of jeans built with a nice amount of stretch. I’ve found the Skinny fit to be the ideal silhouette for the sorts of outfits I like to wear, although the brand’s Slim and Straight options appear to be just as reliable. The comfortable fit and versatile, dark color of my pair definitely served me well on the rest of our adventures through Los Angeles — it was truly awesome to be able to visit Angel City Brewery in the city’s burgeoning Arts District on Saturday in particular! I took along my Randolph Engineering sunglasses along with my ever-present Warby Parker glasses. It was only fitting to be able to take in everything while outfitted in a comfortable, soft V-neck from Los Angeles’ own Pistol Lake. Of course, the beer at Angel City was the real highlight.

A shot from inside the well-designed, enjoyable Angel City Brewery.

They have a positively massive, multi-level warehouse space built out with pleasing industrial décor, an outdoor food stand and of course, excellent beer brewed on-site. Sampling flights of delicious beer and taking in the atmosphere on a beautiful day made it worth the trek across town. It’s part of an area of Los Angeles that seems to be coming up quickly — and it’s also close to the well-designed Apolis Common Gallery. Filled up with great beer and ready to tackle the rest of the day, our adventures took us through much of the rest of downtown L.A., including Grand Park, the Grand Central Market and portions of the city’s Historic District. Viewing some of the city’s surreal architecture was quite neat — the California Department of Transportation is a distinct highlight (even for a government administration building).

The perfect shirt for a night out, and the perfect bag for cross country travel. Polka dot short-sleeve Oxford by Saturdays NYC. Stowaway Weekender Bag by Navali.

As a lot of walking was involved throughout the rest of the day and into the early part of the evening, my reliable navy suede Rosen sneakers from GREATS Brand proved the perfect sneaker both in terms of versatile style and comfort (just as I had hoped). For the larger part of the night however, I turned to my Coulter Chukka boots from Timberland, along with one of my all-time favorite shirts, a polka dot short-sleeve Oxford from Saturdays Surf NYC (as seen above). And the night was certainly an adventure — more great beer was on-tap at Sunset Beer, a Silver Lake bottle shop featuring a wide range of bottles available for purchase and consumption on-site; the draft selection included hard-to-find (in NYC) brews from heavyweights like Deschutes. Checking out nice cocktail bars like The Thirsty Crow in the trendy neighborhood was also a highlight.

The Devil’s Mess egg scramble featuring some solid sides.

And a much-needed Sunday brunch also brought us back to Silver Lake, and the delicious Millie’s Café. As you can see in the photo above, the meal was something else! Given the laidback nature of the day, I kept my outfit rather simple on Sunday, but opted (mistakenly) for shorts rather than denim — a bad move considering temperatures were breezy and in the low ’60’s! And on that note, I would definitely swap out another pair of shorts in my bag for another pair of denim or chinos. However, my Michael Bastian x Uniqlo polo proved polished enough for all the day’s adventures, including lots more walking through Silver Lake. To go with the sportier style I tried out, my Goorin Brothers vintage ballcap (back in stock in November, I’m told!), was a solid accessory to pair with my clean, minimal Daniel Wellington Classic Bristol watch throughout Sunday, in addition to the rest of the trip.

Perusing the excellent Shinola flagship. Polo by Michael Bastian x Uniqlo. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Linen-blend shorts by Frank & Oak. Braided leather belt by Target Merona. Glasses by Warby Parker. Classic Bristol leather watch by Daniel Wellington.

In addition to brunch, our Silver Lake exploration also took us to the outstanding Shinola flagship store. The selection of watches was, as always, outstanding. And as one might expect from such a design-focused company, the layout was pleasing and the rest of the product, including fine leather goods, journal supplies and an amazing shearling bomber jacket done in collaboration with Golden Bear, was stellar. Although it wasn’t in the cards (or the budget, rather) this time, a Shinola timepiece is definitely on my wish list. Swinging through Hollywood finished up what proved to be a whirlwind trip (but closing it out with an excellent Thai coffee near my friend’s apartment was the way to go).

It was a trip that packed a ton into a short period of time, but it’s certainly one I would repeat. Navigating the city was an adventure, but not overly difficult, and covering so much ground and seeing so many different cultures and sights n such a short period of time was definitely the best way to experience the city. There are some standout, up-and-coming spots and some excellent menswear stores, too — all good things to look for when traveling if you’re like me! It may have been a quick trip this time, but I’ll definitely be back.

Ever been through Los Angeles? What’s your favorite spot in the city?

March 30, 2015May 20, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Weekender Bags

The Navali Stowaway Weekender bag in Carafe. What are you packing this spring and summer?

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine (and blog reader) asked me about recommendations for great weekender bags. It got me thinking – now that winter is finally thawing out, I’m sure lots of us have our eyes on spring or summer getaways. While hitting the road for a vacation is always fun, a big part of the process is how you’re getting there & what you’re packing. And if you’re kitted out in a stylish get-up for the road, you need a bag that’s equally as sharp. Backpacks and sports duffle bags, although functional, don’t provide nearly enough room or the looks needed for longer travel. And while formal briefcases or suitcases work for business trips, the weekender bag is all about providing enough room for the essentials — and doing so in an easygoing fashion. Here are 5 great bags for the road ahead.

#1. Navali Stowaway Weekender Bag — $159.99

The Navali Stowaway Weekender Bag comes with a lifetime warranty, and should last a good long while.

First seen on this blog back in August of last year, the Carafe color pictured here is now gone – but it’s been replaced with an equally stylish washed navy option or a spring-like “Sand” shade. The blue cotton canvas contrasts nicely with the brown leather fastenings, but it’s not all for show. Exterior pockets with strong buckle fastenings, tough zippers, a thick & comfortable shoulder strap and just enough for the essentials make this bag worth the price. Dimensions are 22″ width, 12″height, 8 1/2″ diameter.

#2. J. Crew Abingdon Weekender Bag — $198

Deep olive. Waxed cotton canvas. J. Crew’s Abingdon bag.

It’s tough to go anywhere on Siblings with Style without finding a J. Crew item in a shopping roundup — this is one company doing many things exceptionally. The Abingdon is slightly bigger than the Navali above in terms of height (17 1/2″), width (26″) and diameter (9 1/4″), so it can certainly carry more goods & take a bit of a beating. The waxed cotton canvas construction should age very nicely with increased usage too.

#3. Everlane Twill Weekender — $95

Everlane’s simple, clean take on the weekender.

Everlane delivers a much more minimal, modernist (and cheaper) take on the weekender bag. The brand keeps things simple with a grey cotton twill exterior and black leather fastenings — no aged waxed cotton here, folks. Everlane’s bags really put the brand on the map and continue to be quite popular. Having used an Everlane twill weekender pretty extensively across the past summer in New York, these bags can definitely take quite a lot for the price.

#4. Filson Large Duffel Bag — $358

True heritage quality — and an heirloom-worthy price.

Filson has something the other brands on this list don’t — real, true heritage when it comes to make hardy outdoor gear. Only in recent years has the brand become known more among the fashion community, but it’s got years of experience outfitting hunters, fishers and outdoorsmen. Its bags are crafted from the same durable mindset. This duffle is a true beast of a bag, guaranteed for life and by far the most substantial weekender listed. The olive & tan versions are backordered, but navy and brown are in stock.

#5. Shinola Signature Duffle — $1,250

Exceptionally expensive. But also exceptionally well-made.

So this post isn’t really advocating you go out and drop more than A GRAND on a single bag. But, it’s always worth it to scout out what options are out there – and maybe keep a goal in mind for a future investment. This particular bag looks beautiful and features outstanding Horween leather and is individually stamped and numbered — those are the kind of details that bring the price up. The hardware is solid brass, and despite being leather, this bag should not only hold up but also age exceptionally well (it better for that price!). Available in black & brown, with a cognac number coming soon.

NOTE: Other bags that just missed the cut here include J. Crew Factory’s somewhat smaller but very affordable Carson duffle bag, Navali’s Waxed Stowaway Weekender in Olive and Frank & Oak’s Genuine Italian Leather Weekender. JackThreads is also stocking quite a few weekender bags for low prices at the moment.

What’s your favorite from this list? Any idea what you’ll be buying for your travels?

February 16, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Commentary: Why I Wear A Watch

A look at my watch collection circa Jan. 2014. From left to right: Timex Ameritus Sport with brown-leather NATO strap, black canvas strap Timex Weekender and silver Invicta dive watch.

A look at the author’s watch collection circa Jan. 2014. From left to right: Timex Ameritus Sport with brown-leather NATO strap, black canvas strap Timex Weekender and silver Invicta dive watch. Some new additions pictured below.

Although I’ve written about watches in the past on this site, there hasn’t often been much discussion on why it’s important to me, or why it just makes intrinsic sense (to me, at least!) to wear a watch. There are plenty of other ways to tell time, undoubtedly, from computers to smartphones to other apps on your phone. But each of those, while functional, are utilitarian and not the most stylish — and ambition in matters of style is always good to have!

A Timex Ameritus Sport watch with a No. 8 Chromexcel Horween leather band from Form-Function-Form, a new addition to the personal collection.

The best timepieces have meaningful stories and memories behind them and style that fits in with your day-to-day life — really, that’s the biggest benefit! The first watch I really bought to wear was a Timex Weekender (seen in the case above and in this post here), with a black canvas strap. It was a trusty timepiece that took me through many late nights editing and writing at the student newspaper at Michigan State — classic, minimal in design and style and well set-up for casual wear. I’ve upgraded over time to a larger collection, as you can see in the photos here — a brown-leather watch from Stuhrling, a black-rubber casual watch also from Stuhrling, a Timex Ameritus Sport watch with interchangeable canvas straps (seen in this post on Dappered) and a silver dive watch from Invicta. The black-rubber Stuhrling watch is great for casual outfits — a crewneck sweatshirt, henley and jeans on the weekend, or a pocket T-shirt and khaki shorts in the spring and summer. And the Timex Ameritus watch has tons of versatility, too — it can be worn with a dressier leather strap as pictured above, or with a colorful paisley strap for warmer weather.

The Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray watch.

From the collection: A Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray watch.

A personal favorite: the Stuhrling Original Classic Ascot Agent watch in brown leather.

It’s not essential to have a large collection or even multiple watches, however. When I travel, I take one, maybe two watches at the most (like I did on a recent trip to Michigan). And the most versatile watch in my collection for day-to-day wear is undoubtedly my silver Invicta pro diver watch — the stainless steel links pair with either brown or black leather shoes and belts and everything else from casual sneakers, shorts and a T-shirt in the summer to a navy suit and dress accessories (like this get-up). Although I haven’t gotten to it yet, the links can be swapped out for a canvas or leather strap for even more versatility. The stainless steel style (say that three times fast) is favored by fashion icons on screen and in real life, so that’s an added bonus.

An up-close look at a versatile timepiece, the Invicta 8926 Pro Diver. Cardigan by Todd Snyder.

An up-close look at a versatile and oft-worn timepiece, the Invicta 8926 Pro Diver. Cardigan by Todd Snyder.

And this particular watch is definitely special for more than its looks — it was a Christmas gift from my parents, so I think of them every time I wear it. It’s a daily reminder of consistency, too — wearing a watch helps me start my day off on the right foot and keep track of appointments and meeting times. The fact that it’s got intrinsic style benefits to it is just an added bonus. While I save up for a bigger purchase (for now, this Shinola watch), my collection will definitely do just fine.

If you’re just starting out looking for great watches, some pointers can be found here on key styles and low prices. And if you want to add some long-term “grail” watch purchases to your list, Invaluable has some drool-worthy men’s watches up for sale right now — and they’ve also got some women’s watches up on the site if you need a gift for that special someone in your life! In the meantime, buying an inexpensive, solid timepiece like the ones above should work well for style purposes and functionality.

Do you wear a watch every day? What’s on your wrist from Monday to Sunday? And what would be your dream watch? Let me know!

December 18, 2014 by Beau H.

2014 Men’s Style Christmas Wish List

If you’re a newly burgeoning or seasoned style enthusiast, there are lots of enviable, investment-worthy items out there that you’d presumably like to have in your wardrobe (I know I’ve got my share!). Unfortunately, cost is simply prohibitive for some of these items — but the holidays (and the end of the year) are a great time to set new aspirational style goals and yes, dream of what Santa might be putting under the tree this year. If you’ve got your gift giving all taken care of, great! Onto your style wish list. If not, get on it! (This guide from earlier this week could help). It seems like there are new pieces that pop up on the personal wish list every day, but these are the highlights this season.

#1. Allen Edmonds Bleecker Street Captoe Boot, $345 (On Sale)

As sharp a pair of dress/casual boots on the market.

A pair of Allen Edmonds shoes made last year’s Christmas Wish List, and these boots are certainly worthy of that same distinction. Available in several eye-catching shades from the venerable American retailer, (including the classic Bourbon Calf shown above) this pair of boots would look as great with a suit as they would with dark denim and a striped henley. They’re certainly sleek, but the captoe breaks them up visually, making them a little more casual. And the ankle boot style is perfect for fall and winter, although at this price, they’d be a tremendous pair of year-round shoes.

#2. Shinola Runwell 41mm Leather Watch, $550

A classic in the making.

Shinola has exploded across the past roughly two years in terms of hype and media attention, with increased production and an even greater brick-and-mortar presence planned for 2015. The company’s ethos speaks for itself: sturdy, American-made products that combine great style with an authentic vibe (although there’s more to that ‘authentic vibe’ than meets the eye). While plenty of different colorways and strap combos are available (including a lovely burgundy-dial timepiece), the cream face and dark brown leather strap of the watch above caught my eye particularly. The dial isn’t absurdly dressy of course, but the watch has a certain refined air that could allow one to pull it off with a winter-weight suit and dress boots.

#3. Scotch and Soda Ralston Slim-Fit Jeans, $149

A slim, dark pair of jeans as worn by James Bond (off the screen, that is).

When most people think of high-quality denim, Scotch and Soda might not be that high on the list — after all, there are other brands making excellent denim on the cheap. However, this pair of Scotch & Soda jeans has something special going for them – they’re the same style and wash frequently worn by Daniel Craig; on top of that, they’re a solid, clean dark wash with a slim cut. Criticize Craig as James Bond, sure, but you can’t deny his excellent style on and off the screen. Additionally, yours truly once had the great fortune of owning a pair of the Ralstons — an untimely rip after years of hard wear ended that great run though, and these ended up back on the wish list as a result. Maybe one day…

#4. The Hill-side Cotton Herringbone Tweed Tailored Jacket, $396

A rugged jacket that’s ready for winter.

Brooklyn-based The Hill-side has a great thing going right now — a partnership with J. Crew is an excellent reflection of their current momentum. And the aesthetic — clean, well-made basics in unique fabrics and styles — is working very well for them. The above blazer captures that vibe perfectly. It looks to have a tailored cut and the ability to wear it casually with dark denim or some seasonally-appropriate burgundy cords. The patch pockets dress it down slightly, as does the marled herringbone tweed texture. On a budget-friendly note, Uniqlo makes a cheaper, similar-looking alternative here, although sizes are very slim at the moment.

#5. Todd Snyder x Champion Baseball Jacket Sweater, $295

A vintage-looking, sport-inspired shawl cardigan for when it gets cold.

Todd Snyder’s brand continues to rise quickly through the menswear world. He’s already taken home a slew of accolades in recent years, and he’s hit the sweet spot as far as designers who perfect a tailored, casual-rugged vibe. His collaborations with Champion always seem to be a major hit, and one would hope the high prices are a reflection of the inherent quality — thankfully, other pieces in the collaboration aren’t as expensive (when on-sale, at least). This baseball “jacket-sweater” looks thick and warm, and it also gives off a rugged, stylish vibe thanks to the sport-inspired trim and cuffs. The shawl collar is another masculine touch, too. Thus, it makes this wish list.

What’s on your style Christmas wish list? Any thoughts on this list? Leave them below!

The Style Guide

All the best men's style essentials you need, every day.

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