The 2021 Christmas Gift Guide For The Modern Man
We’ve compiled our top pick’s for the dad, brother, friend or other man in your life. Here is the M2 2021 Christmas Gift Guide.
Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue
When you give a gift, remember first impressions count. In that regard, the Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue comes out the gates swinging with its bottle assembled by hand in the maison’s Pelleteria in Florence. The polished white metal engineering gear cap on the bottle is engraved with “Montblanc Explorer”, which is both its name and its philosophy. An ode to the blue of nature, Montblanc Explorer Ultra Blue celebrates a connection with nature, and the distinctive citrus, woody and marine notes of the fragrance reflects that. The top notes can be described as a luminous and zesty fusion of Italian bergamot and citrus of the finest quality, with the addition of a touch of pink peppercorn to deliver a fresh spicy note with woody facets reminiscent of pepper and elemi.
Available now from Farmers and Life Pharmacy.
Extreme Style
Montblanc, M2’s go-to brand for luxury style, have released their Extreme 2.0 series of accessories and bags. Our picks this month are the Montblanc Extreme 2.0 Backpack (available in small and large sizes) and Extreme 2.0 Ultra Slim Document Case. Both fill a niche while looking good at the same time. They both come in a combination of plain and printed Split calfskin leather with a carbon-fibre motif and hand placed motif.
The Extreme 2.0 Backpack is perfect for the contemporary urban explorer with space for a 13” laptop, dedicated phone pocket and three writing instruments. On the other hand, if you’re going to be walking into the boardroom or meeting, make sure you do it with the Extreme 2.0 Ultra Slim Document Case to really make a good first impression. The Extreme 2.0 Document Case comes with a new zip construction that doubles as a closure as well as a shoulder strap. Made of the same leather as the Backpack, details on the Document Case are set off by the matte black metal fittings.
Available from Montblanc Boutique 87 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland
Parisian 1919 Made in New Zealand
Perched on the edge of Myer’s Park in the heart of Auckland, Parisian has been turning out beautifully crafted accessories since 1919, when the founder’s daughter, Ruby put the finishing touches on the first tie.
The 1919 collection is a celebration of opulent silks, woven in an indulgent colour palette. Fresh from Parisian’s workroom, this cameo collection pays homage to the ornate intricacy of the paisley motif, revived with a new boldness of colour and scale.
Each tie is individually numbered as part of a coveted limited release.
The Perfect Bottle
If you’re a family that does Secret Santa, a.k.a, chucking a bunch of gifts into the centre of the room and then fighting over them, you’re gonna have to find a gift literally anybody can enjoy. M2’s recommendation this year is going with a bottle of the finest Port. In particular, either Taylor’s 10 Year Old, Taylor’s 2016 LBV, or Taylor’s Historical Collection – The Mallet. Presented in exclusively bespoke bottles inspired by historic bottle moulds, the Taylor Fladgate Historic Limited Edition series is a collection of specially blended cask-aged Ports. The Mallet makes a great dessert wine, and combines particularly well with flavours of almonds, berry fruit or dark chocolate. Mix this with a chill evening of great conversation and you’ve just found the perfect gift to give this Christmas.
Available at all leading Liquor Outlets.
Take A Hike
MOAB stands for both literally and figuratively “Mother-Of-All-Boots”, and their Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Birthday Men’s is no exception. The deserving hiker in your family will walk miles in your newly gifted shoes with out of the box comfort and waterproof treatment. Honestly having a waterproof membrain that’s both breathable and waterproof keeping your feet dry on the trail is a lifesaver. Everything about this shoe is crafted to ward off even the mostly niggly complaints that may crop up over the course of a good hike. This includes its premium Vibram sole which provides excellent traction and stick, not to mention durability.
Mint As
Started by three lads out of the heart of South Auckland, MINT is a new inclusive men’s underwear line. Hand-crafted from buttery soft and sustainable bamboo fabric, MINT’s ethos is one of quality, effortless style and meticulous attention to detail.
The signature waistband was inspired by both traditional Pasifika tattoo and the rounded edges of mint leaves. It’s like the luxury car of undies, with breathable material that pulls away moisture and mesh cool zones for enhanced airflow. Clever anti-chafe lycra strips on the inner thigh is a thoughtful touch, as is the seamless contoured pouch.
MINT is designed to move with a man, no matter who he is or what he does. M2 recommends these, not only to support local, but also for its absolute level of quality.
Buckle Up
A wise man once said, “A man in possession of a pair of pants must be in want of a belt”. The Hugo Boss Belt Gift Box is the perfect set for any guy anywhere.
It’s so adaptable that it can fit anyone’s look. The box contains a reversible 125cm leather strap, black on one side and dark brown on the other. It’s also paired with two buckles of different styles to fit any taste.
You have your standard buckle as well as my personal favourite, the plate buckle. Whether you’re buying this for yourself or for a friend, there’s no way to go wrong, especially when Hugo Boss is involved.
RRP $229 shop online @ www.hugo-boss.co.nz
