The Ferrari Purosangue: Everything You Need to Know
All-wheel-drive? Of course
Everything You Should Know About Le Creuset Dutch Ovens
Whether you’re proficient in the kitchen or not, you’re likely aware of the allure of the Le Creuset Dutch oven. The cookware is known to catch the eye thanks to its brightly hued exterior, and those who have cooked in one can attest to its virtues in making anything from soups to sourdough bread and fried foods to braises. They’re also known for their high price tag (the popular 5.5-quart Dutch oven costs $370), which could explain why it ends up on so many wedding registries and wish lists. The expensive pot is often touted as the best of the best, but is it actually that good of a piece of cookware?
The History of Le Creuset’s Dutch Oven
Before you dive in to the history of Le Creuset’s Dutch oven, you have to understand what a Dutch oven is, which Merriam-Webster defines as “a heavy pot with a tight-fitting domed cover.” That generic definition can apply to a lot of things, yet somehow not every “heavy pot with a tight-fitting domed cover” is marketed as a Dutch oven.
The Pennsylvania Dutch invented the Dutch oven — hence the name — in the 1700s, consisting of brass pots with tightly fitting lids. After jet-setting around around the world, the Dutch oven arrived in France in the 1920s, its brass construction switched to cast iron. In 1925, two Frenchmen, Armand Desaegher, a casting specialist, and Octave Aubecq, an enameling expert, took the Dutch oven and gave it an enamel glaze, thus birthing Le Creuset’s flagship item — and the brand itself later that year in the town of Fresnoy-le-Grand. Ttlhe pot that we know and affectionally call the “Dutch oven” from Le Creuset isn’t really a Dutch oven. It was, after all made in France. The term “French oven” never caught on, so it’s still colloquially called a “Dutch oven,” or “cocotte” in French meaning “casserole.” Though most people will just call it a “Le Creuset” in the same way someone asks for a Kleenex when they need a tissue.
Le Creuset’s enameled cookware has become its calling card, and the brand’s first enamel color, Flame, was inspired by the glow of molten cast iron, which radiated with a vibrant, fiery orange. The enamel isn’t all just for looks. The coating provides a naturally non-stick interior that’s easy to clean, and it also foregoes the need to season the cast iron underneath, while still retaining its ability to get ripping hot.
These days, Le Creuset’s Dutch oven is available in over one hundred colors, with some limited-edition offerings (like one the brand did with Star Wars). The brand still occupies the same factory in Fresnoy-le-Grand, where it continues to churn out cookware since people are continually being turned on to the cult of Le Creuset.
Why Is Le Creuset’s Dutch Oven So Expensive?
Le Creuset markets itself as a luxury brand, and it has the price tags to justify that. Those high price tags aren’t just for prestige — Le Creuset makes a damn good Dutch oven. We love it more than its direct competition, Staub, and it’s far superior compared to cheaper iterations, even those from direct-to-consumer cookware brands like Milo or Misen.
In its almost 100-year history, Le Creuset has continued to improve upon its Dutch oven through innovations from better heat retention to improved enameling. Despite some parts of the process becoming automated, actual humans are still behind the construction of Le Creuset’s cookware. Before a Dutch oven is even ready to be sold, it has to be inspected by at least 15 people to ensure it’s up to par.
Chase Pellerin
Is Le Creuset’s Dutch Oven Worth the Money?
Unequivocally, yes. The Dutch oven is maybe the only piece of cookware that can do it all in the kitchen. Think of a method of food preparation, and you’ll probably be able to do it in the Dutch oven. From the perspective of only needing one piece of cookware to do everything, the Dutch oven — and especially Le Creuset’s — is that thing. Plus, they’re built to last a lifetime, and the brand isn’t just blowing smoke with that assertion. With a lifetime limited warranty, Le Creuset’s Dutch oven (and all other enameled cast iron products) will be replaced free of charge if it doesn’t hold up over time.
If you can cut it, buy a Le Creuset Dutch oven. It’ll probably be the best thing you own in the kitchen.
Sur La Table
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Today’s Best Deals: The Thermapen Mk4 Is on Sale, $20 off Jaybird Vista 2 & More
Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.
Welcome to Deals of Note, where Gear Patrol captures all the best deals of the day. You can also follow all our deal posts in the Deals section.
Aug 24, 2021
Shinola x Crate & Barrel Home Furnishings Collection
Detroit’s Shinola brand—known for their American-made watches and carry gear, just teamed up with Crate & Barrel to expand into home furnishings. The collection includes a full range of furniture & fixtures from a wood-framed leather sofa to beds, tables, and even lamps and softgoods, it is highlighted by premium materials and smart, detailed designs.
This Milwaukee Penlight Doubles as a Laser Pointer
With its rechargeable battery and integrated laser pointer, this pen light from Milwaukee is a handy tool for all kinds of jobs. Toggle between two light modes: 250-lumens & 50-lumens for the torch. Or flip on the laser and point it out. The handle end of the light features a rubber bite-tip so you can safely hold it in your mouth, hands-free. Run-time is 2-8 hours depending on mode, and a 3-color battery indicator let’s you know how much life is left. Recharge via MicroUSB.
Is This Toyota Testing the New Land Cruiser or Lexus LX in America?
Toyota launched the new J300 Land Cruiser earlier this year without mentioning it coming to the United States. But in a statement confirming the Land Cruiser would be discontinued in 2021, Toyota affirmed that it is “committed to the large SUV segment” and instructed enthusiasts to “stay tuned for future developments.” A photographer may have spotted one of those future developments.
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TFLTruck received spy shots of a large SUV with heavy camouflage testing in California. That vehicle had Texas manufacturer plates — Toyota’s American headquarters is in Plano — and a Toyota Yaris behind it as a chase vehicle. Evidence suggests that it would be a new Toyota or Lexus-based sport utility vehicle under the cloak. And it has six lug wheels, like the new J300 Land Cruiser, suggesting it’s a heavy-duty, body-on-frame off-roader. But which one?
The flagship Lexus LX SUV — a very close relative of the J200 Land Cruiser — is definitely returning to America for the next generation. The LX could be heavily based on the J300 Land Cruiser. And since the LX emphatically outsold the Land Cruiser, bringing only the LX version to America would make sense. However, the lighting and grille in the TFL spy shot look different than the more Lexus-like mug teased under a sheet during the NX reveal.
Toyota also should have some form of full-size SUV coming. The new Tundra is arriving very soon and will likely run on the same TNGA-F platform and may use one of the same engines as the J300 Land Cruiser. An SUV variant of that truck should follow to replace the aging Sequoia. That SUV could have space to become more of an off-roader if Toyota launches a larger three-row Grand Highlander family crossover.
If Toyota were bringing the J300 to America but only as a Lexus LX, debuting a new cheaper Toyota full-size, American-built off-roader based on the Tundra and not wanting to reveal the launch of either vehicle yet, it would explain Toyota’s lack of a straight answer to whether the Land Cruiser was returning.
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15 Best Car Dash Cams
Everyone, hands up if you’ve ever been in a road accident. Okay, keep those hands up if it was your fault. None of you? Really? We’re sorry, we’re sure you’re all excellent or at least pretty good drivers, but we find that hard to believe. If only there was a device that could determine whether or not you’re telling the truth. Well, there is…car dash cams.
You might remember these from the ten-thousand or so bizarre videos from all over the world that always seem to capture the very worst moments of someone’s life. While that’s (mostly) very amusing, the car dash cam’s actual purpose is supposed to provide unarguable evidence in the event of a crash, accident, or traffic violation.
This provides the owner with protection when challenged over the truth – as long as it’s not their fault.
This is great news for the careful and responsible drivers among us. Meanwhile, it could be an issue for the less talented drivers among us. That’s right, we know who you are!
CHECK OUT:
If you’re tired of being blamed for accidents that weren’t your fault, however, car dash cams will help you out. Heck, you could even exert some revenge on those who’ve wronged you by following them all day to capture proof of their depravity.
That said, buckle up and join us to check out the best car dash cams on the market today.
1
The Rexing car dash cam is designed to blend in seamlessly with the car to keep your focus squarely on the road, as well as ensure that it doesn’t look too obvious for other drivers. This model offers plenty of features to get excited about.
One of them is the full HD recording, which ensures crystal-clear images both day and night. Furthermore, the 170-degree lens achieves an incredibly wide angle, which manages to get nearly every inch of the road.
For increased protection and driver safety, there’s also accident auto-detection.
This will activate long before you’ve even realized something is up. This should offer a minor alert to allow you the ability to avoid possible accidents before they happen. Of course, this should allow everyone to make it to their destination with very few issues.
Now, isn’t that what we all want from car dash cams? We think so.
Pros:
- Discreet design
- Full HD recording
- 170-degree ultra wide-angle lens
- Accident auto-detection
Cons:
- Can only be mounted on glass and not dashboard
- Difficult to identify number plates on video
2
Garmin is a major leader for the technology you’ll use in or for your vehicle. It comes as a shock to no one that they made excellent car dash cams too. The video quality is better than most normal cameras, which is saying a lot. Filming at a remarkable 1440p, you’ll never be straining to see the content in videos again.
This will make you the best eye-witness on the road.
Also included are exceptionally accurate lane departure and collision warning systems. This is sure to save you and others from potential crashes during the busiest times of the day. Furthermore, voice-recognition software means the whole camera is entirely hands-free.
This allows you to switch it on and off with simple voice commands. Don’t focus on pictures on a screen, focus on the road and let the camera do the hard work for you.
Pros:
- Wirelessly sync videos to the smartphone
- High quality 1440p video
- Lane departure and forward collision warning alerts
- Compact design
Cons:
- Heats up even when the screen is off
- Grainy night-footage
3
The Lukas HD car dash cams come with a provided 16GB of internal storage. Included is an array of awesome and incredibly useful driving features you’ll absolutely love. With 1080p HD video, the footage is exceptional and clearly capable of getting every detail.
Meanwhile, the powerful auto exposure feature means that regardless of the weather conditions, you’ll always have perfectly viewable images.
There are also four different recording modes that can be adapted to suit your preference on how you want to record something. These modes include continuous recording and motion detection. This will surely come in handy when the car is parked overnight, at the game, or out to dinner.
Pros:
- Full 1080p HD video with Sony CMOS image sensor
- Powerful Auto Exposure for vivid recordings in any environment
- Four different recording modes
- G-sensor detects accidents and other impacts
Cons:
- Slow GPS system
- Microphone picks up too much low-frequency sound
4
With motion-activated sensors and extreme temperature resistance, the Anker Roav Dash Cam is a superb product. It is able to withstand all elements, situations, and conditions. It isn’t just designed for your annual adventure across Antarctica sadly.
We know, “technology,” right?
The camera delivers more than enough features to keep you and your car protected no matter where you drive it.
Its Nighthawk Vision means that you’ll receive awesome, clear videos during the darkest of nights. Meanwhile, the built-in WiFi smartphone transfer means it’s never been easier to view your videos. This will be filmed in expansive panoramic views to capture as much as possible.
Anker gets it done with several other products, but their car dash cams are absolutely stunning.
Pros:
- Motion-activated sensors
- Extreme temperature resistance
- Compact and discreet design to keep you focused on the road
- Built-in wifi transfers videos directly to your smartphone
Cons:
- Difficult to read number plates at a distance
5
Offering nearly 360-degrees of coverage, the Vantrue N2 ProDual Dash Cam is an awesome choice for anyone. Especially those who wish to get home safe or like to capture crazy people on the road.
This camera provides you with both road camera and interior camera viewership.
This ensures you capture as much as possible so you are always able to back up any claims. We have to agree with the late Billy Mays who once said, “wait, there’s more!”
These car dash cams are also equipped with a 24-hour parking mode. This will detect motion should someone or something get a little too close. Meanwhile, the G-Sensor and looping mechanism ensure that you can set it and never worry if it’s recording. It surely will be.
Pros:
- Two-way camera for filming interior and exterior
- 24-hour parking mode detects motion
- Looping recording and G-sensor
- Infrared night vision
Cons:
- Loose car mount
- No wifi connectivity
6
Garmin is back again, this time with the Dash Cam 35 model. This car dash cam provides accurate forward-collision warnings and G-Sensor incident detection. This guarantees constant vigilance on the road and protects your footage as soon as something happens.
Along with this, you’ll also have a dash cam player. This allows for clear playback of anything that does happen, without having to upload it to another device.
There’s also a red light and speed camera warning system. However, you do need to pay extra for this privilege. It fits comfortably above the rearview mirror and the suction cup is very reliable, even on the most uneven roads or during heatwaves.
Be sure you’re aware that there are no audio recording capabilities. This is good and bad. While you won’t be recorded as you belt out your favorite tunes, it also won’t record audio in the case of an incident during a traffic stop.
Pros:
- Forward collision warning
- Red light and speed camera warnings
- G-Sensor incident detection
- Dash cam player
Cons:
- Awkward mounting device
- Adapter cord is too short
7
With a 32GB internal memory, you can record hours of road trips. Even if it’s just to and from the office (although we recommend you get out more, dude). Overall, the Transcend Drive Pro allows you to do exactly that.
You can drive like a pro without being concerned it won’t work or back you up in the case of an accident.
This is due to the built-in G-Sensor that’ll protect any recordings upon a crash, as well as snapshot features to capture the clearest images possible. For your convenience, these car dash cams also have access to the exclusive DrivePro520 application.
This means you can download and stream all your adventures, then identify when that idiot pulled out in front of you without warning.
Pros:
- Motion G-Sensor detects and automatically protects the current recording
- Exclusive DrivePro520 App to download and stream videos
- Free 32GB microSD included
- Snapshot feature for clear image capture
Cons:
- Poor nighttime recording for the rear camera
- Some software freezing issues
8
The perfect camera to give you the edge over other drivers on the road, this Z-Edge Z4 Dash Cam comes with 2K video capabilities. It truly is an awesome camera that will hang nice and discreetly from your windshield. It’s also packed full of useful features that make it more than a simple camera.
This includes collision detection, 150-degree wide angles, and parking monitor motion sensors. All of this combines to give you some of the best protection available from the sea of car dash cams. The Z-Edge also comes at an excellent price when compared with other cameras and ensures (essentially) endless hours of recording.
Just remember to overwrite existing footage. Otherwise, you may run out. That endless thing isn’t exactly infinite apparently.
Pros:
- 150-degree wide viewing angle
- Collision detection
- HDR technology for clear footage
- Parking monitor motion sensor
Cons:
- Time-lapse mode not supported
- Unable to read number plates at a distance
9
If you’re looking for the most complete coverage you can possibly find, the KDLinks super wide front and rear dash cam is the product for you. With 290-degrees of filming capability, it uses a 2-lens system that makes sure to capture every single detail.
Meanwhile, the superior F1.6 six-glass lenses provide night vision capability unseen anywhere else in the world.
Along with this, these car dash cams also come with emergency lock buttons to protect footage. This also comes with an auto-switch to turn the dash cam on as soon as you turn on the ignition. This ensures that you’ll always be protected even on those days where your brain hasn’t caught up to your body yet.
With so much high-quality coverage, the KDLinks DX2 is the answer to getting every angle you need. Plus, it could lower those insurance premiums a bit.
Pros:
- Superior F1.6 Six-glass lenses night vision
- Front and Rear 2-lens system
- Emergency lock button
- 290-degree total coverage
Cons:
- Unable to read number plates at a distance
- Motion detection can inhibit flow of recording
10
The THINKWARE F800 PRO may very well offer the car dash cams that are perfect for the thinking man. It contains both front and rear filming capabilities, but this is just the tip of the filming iceberg. It’s designed to offer you the utmost coverage and protection from both sides of the road.
It also provides incredibly crisp night time footage that will keep your car alert even when you’re not driving it.
The THINKWARE makes this possible with its reliable motion sensors that activate whenever someone walks too close. As for the performance on the road, there’s advanced driver assistance.
This will recognize when hazards are present and let you know before it’s too late.
Meanwhile, you can also keep an eye on everything from afar by using the mobile viewer. Sure it’s on the expensive side, but for those of you who are truly “in love” their cars, money isn’t an object.
Pros:
- Super Night Vision 2.0 and parking mode
- Mobile viewer for convenience
- Advanced Driver Assistance System
- 1080p footage in both front and rear camera
Cons:
- On the expensive side
- Troubles with app functions
11
The Transcend 16GB is a high-capacity piece of tech that’ll ensure you won’t have any mysteries during your drive-time. Coming with a 16GB microSD card, you’ll have more driving footage than Top Gear and maybe even more entertaining shots too.
The camera comes with a free app and WiFi connectivity. This makes it easier than ever to view, stream, and share your footage with the world.
Well, at least the relevant authorities.
With a 160-degree angle lens, you can ensure you’ll get greater coverage than you thought possible. Meanwhile, the G-Sensor is more sensitive than other cameras and will have your back in the event an accident with emergency recording.
Unfortunately, these car dash cams don’t come with parking mode or GPS. However, for a budget product, there’s still a lot to give you peace of mind while driving.
Pros:
- Preview and play back videos
- Free app and wifi connectivity
- Emergency recording with G-Sensor
- 160-degree wide angle recording
Cons:
- Quicktime file format may not be recognized
- G-sensor is highly sensitive
12
The PAPAGO Car Dash Camera boasts incredible HD recording footage that ensures you’ll capture every little thing possible. Along with top quality images, there’s 64GB microSD support that’ll capture hours of video. Plus, all of this can be viewed with the complementary app.
Unfortunately, this app is only compatible with Android, for now at least. However, if you’ve embraced Android over Apple, then this is perfect. You also get two different mounts to suit you and your car, which is pretty cool. It also comes with a Driver Assist feature that goes that extra mile to keep you protected and keep that insurance low.
If you’re looking for good car dash cams that more than provides what you need at a reasonable price, the PAPAGO is a tremendous option.
Pros:
- 1296p super HD footage
- Car DVR supports up to 64GB microSD
- Two types of mounts to suit your car
- PAPAGO! CAM ON app for viewing incident videos
Cons:
- App-only compatible with Android devices
- No GPS capabilities
13
If compact is your style, then the YI Compact Dash Cam might feel like it’s been designed especially for you. One of the cheapest products on our list, it still boasts a range of great features that feel like it should cost much more.
These features include high-quality day footage and even good footage for nighttime recordings.
Despite its size, it’s also very sturdy and should withstand knocks or tumbles with ease. On the software side, the app is relatively straightforward to use. It also provides the opportunity to look back on exactly what happened in any situation you run into.
For those in warmer areas, the built-in cooling system will keep it protected against the sun. However, there have been some instances of melting, so be careful.
Pros:
- Excellent price for what you get
- Lightweight but sturdy
- Excellent, high-quality footage during the day, good footage at night
- Easy-to-use app
Cons:
- Can’t read number plates over 10 feet away
- Unclear audio recordings
14
Our final choice for the best car dash cams is the APEMAN Full HD Dash Cam. It lives up to its name with high-quality video footage that allows for seamless video recording. It even does this during the day and night, both with clear results.
While the camera doesn’t technically have night vision, it still offers F1.8 exposure that’s ideal for low-light situations.
These car dash cams also come with a built-in G-Sensor that recognizes exactly when a crash occurs and locks the footage for your protection. Meanwhile, the 170-degree wide angle lens captures the majority of the road, so even the most inconspicuous happenings are recorded.
Our only real issue is that you can only mount up to a 32GB microSD card. This is a good amount, but we’d like it if there was potential for just a little bit more storage. Otherwise, feel free to go ape-man, over the APEMAN
Pros:
- Simultaneous recording with super high resolution
- 170-degree wide angle
- Built-in G-Sensor
- Easy to set up and use
Cons:
- Only recognizes microSD up to 32GB
- Some problems with loop recording
What are the main things to consider when buying a dash cam?
We see you’ve decided to purchase a dash cam. Congratulations, from now on you’ll never need to worry about the back and forth uncertainty of ‘He said, She said.’ Plus, you’ll never need to feel concerned about how safe your car is and you’ll also pick up a couple of hilarious videos along the way.
Before you settle on which car dash cam is the best one for you, there’s a couple of things you’ll need to consider first. This will help you out by making sure you don’t get taken for a ride.
Resolution:
In the 21st century, everything is high definition, perhaps too high definition sometimes. Whatever car dash cam you choose to buy, you can rely on it having a satisfactory image resolution. However, there’s still a range of different image qualities that you’ll notice when it comes to car dash cams.
The most common to run across is 720p, 1080p, and 1440p.
You may not know what this means, which is totally cool, few do. These same things can be seen in computers and televisions too. That said, what does 1080p, for example, actually mean? The “P” in the example stands for “progressive.”
You may see 720i as well, where the “I” stands for “integrated.”
Both are the same type of thing, it’s simply the way pixels are laid out. In the P version of things, pixels are up and down. Meaning from the top of an image to the bottom, pixels are formed. This gives an HD, defined image or video that you might see a movie in.
Meanwhile, the I version has pixels that go from side to side. This offers a crisp, sharp image or video. The P version is often better at these things which is why it’s used for car dash cams.
The higher the resolution is, the more likely the video will catch the smallest of details.
Looping:
Car dash cams with looping capabilities allow you to avoid the need for switching the camera on or off. The reason for this is due to the loop allowing the camera to automatically turn on. It’ll begin recording as soon as you switch your car on thanks to hardwiring.
If you’re somebody whose memory isn’t as great as you’d like, this is essential. Even if you have a great memory, it could be insanely useful. Plus, it’ll be another thing you won’t have to worry about.
Night Vision:
Cameras with great night vision will save you a lot of stress if an accident occurs in low-light conditions. Night driving is in some ways safer due to there being fewer cars on the road, but this is not 100% true at times. It’s also a time where people feel perfectly happy to not only hit but also run.
Hey, think about it, it’s dark, nobody saw!
Unfortunately for them, if you have a dash cam when you’re involved in a nighttime collision, they can’t truly get away. Some cameras have better night vision recording than others, however. That means you need to be sure to find one that provides as clear an image as possible once the sun goes down.
G-Sensors:
Finding and purchasing a car dash cam with G-sensor capabilities is essential for protecting your footage. It’ll help keep it perfectly fine in the event of a crash or collision without it getting overwritten by the newer footage. Cameras with G-Sensor technology will automatically switch off when they recognize the car’s ignition has been turned off.
It will then ‘lock’ the footage to ensure that is doesn’t disappear into the ether.
Driver Assistance:
Sometimes there’s a lot going on while your driving, but you’re a good driver, right? It may not matter. Clearly, you can’t be expected to do this successfully all the time sadly. In fact, you might not notice something until it’s too late.
To prevent this, the car dash cams come with collision and pull-out alerts.
This recognizes potential disaster before it happens.
Not only will you have some proof after an accident, but you’ll also be able to prevent accidents altogether. This pretty much makes you a superhero. Who needs the Batmobile anyway?
Parking Mode:
Worried about your car at when you’ve parked it? Maybe there’s been a spate of vandalism around the neighborhood recently? You’re not going to sit up all night waiting to catch the perp, after all, you shouldn’t have to.
Why do all the work when your dash cam can act as a lookout for you?
Parking mode operates using motion sensors, so you don’t need to worry about wasting the battery overnight. If someone comes within range of the car, the camera will switch on. This is sure to catch crooks and idiot kids and hopefully makes sure they don’t cause any more damage.
You might also get the occasional curious critter, but we can live with that.
Rear Camera:
Finding a car dash cam with both front and rear camera functionality ensures you get the widest range of protection possible. You can drive wherever you please without fear of possible accidents they are not caught on camera. Clearly, the best cameras can give you this.
However, it can be a bit more expensive…so you need to think before you buy.
Do you need a rear cam? We’d say it could sure offer more protection in the event an accident occurs…especially in the back of the vehicle you happen to drive. However, the normal car dash cams can do a lot for you too. That said, this will just depend on how much you’re willing to spend.
Storage:
Most car dash cams will have a built-in memory function that’ll record and subsequently save any footage that’s captured during your drives. However, what will you do once you run out of space? By using high definition video, you’ll be treated to excellent and clear footage that will identify culprits without a shadow of a doubt.
The problem is that this awesome quality also means a lot of storage space is used up. Those files can get pretty large. Cameras with high-capacity storage will be a great asset to you, without a doubt. You may also want one that can install a microSD card for even more space.
This will save you the hassle of deleting footage all the time, without much time in-between.
What are the main benefits of car dash cams?
Car dash cams are tremendous for most. The reason is mostly due to what they provide the average, every day, driver. Think about it this way, your protection and how people believe your story could hinge on these things. Car dash cams have gotten police officers out of hot water as well as fired.
That is some major power to hold.
Imagine too if you’re a young black man in America. Traffic stops are routine for them, as well as Hispanic men (even if you do nothing wrong). Most tend to go well, but at times things can get really bad.
Car dash cams can be maneuvered to get the entire ordeal on tape if something goes bad.
It’s your word against the officer’s word, which means your word is useless without proof. However, this tape you happen to have will help exponentially prove he or she was in the wrong. Heck, even the presence of one will help. This is useful for a number of other instances too, so let’s go over them.
Accidents:
Many of us have suffered an accident, been on the wrong end of a fender bender, or encountered some douchebag who thinks he owns the road. However, if we had a car dash cam, we could have had an excellent way to prove that we were, in fact, in the right.
Memories might be pretty clear, but there’s no substitute for video evidence. It’s an eyewitness that doesn’t blink, so take advantage while you can.
Peace of Mind:
Even if we have a good idea of where our vehicle is, we may still worry if it’s safe. It could be the area you’ve parked in, it could be the place on the road, it could just be that you’re very protective. Maybe too protective perhaps? With a car dash cam, any fears will be (mostly) alleviated.
The dash cam won’t necessarily save your car from damage when you leave it parked somewhere. However, it will help you identify who was responsible. This will help the local law enforcement hunt them down, then you’ll finally get the justice you deserved all along.
Fraud Prevention:
The unfortunate truth is that some drivers will go out of their way to cause collisions, accidents, and other inconveniences. They will then try to make it look as if you were at fault for their mistake. How horrible, right?
With car dash cams, you can become a hero of the road.
Well, you’ll be your own superhero. You won’t be a Batman or Green Arrow out there or anything…this is only a dash cam. However, you’ll help you avoid dealing with people who try to make you look at fault. These frauds need to be stopped and you can do just that.
Not Just a Camera:
Well, it still is a camera, but the dash cam is so much more. It can act as a parking assistant, provide collision alerts, and parking protection. Furthermore, most cameras will also have GPS capabilities. This will not only pinpoint exactly where an accident occurs but will also show your speed.
This will allow you to make sure you never go over the speed limit. We know you will, but at least you’ll have an idea of the speed limit in areas you are not familiar with.
That GPS thing is pretty handy, for sure.
The Memories:
Car dash cams are mostly associated with covering you or somebody else in the event of an accident. However, you can also use them to record your road trips! Seriously, you can.
This is pretty awesome if you ask us.
If you like packing up your stuff, jumping in the car and saying goodbye to the city for a couple of days, the dash cam will be there. It’ll catch everything so you can watch how things went when you’re done. You can check out the gorgeous scenery and marvels of nature you came across.
Heck, you can even put together in a travel video as a memento that won’t go anywhere.
Pure Entertainment:
We’ve all seen those hilarious/interesting videos captured by the sheer luck of a driver having a dash cam. If you haven’t seen them, trust us, you’re sorely missing out. While entertainment was not the intended purpose of car dash cams, you can have endless hours of weird and wonderful examples.
You can come across some of the strangest goings on in everyday society, especially when people don’t think they’re being watched. Just remember not to use these powers for evil. That’s not cool, dude.
Is it easy to set up and install car dash cams?
It really should be easy to set up car dash cams. However, that is not exactly the case regardless of how good it would be. There are certain rules regarding placement and other issues that you really need to pay attention to.
Not doing so could result in footage not working well or even become useless in court under certain situations.
Heck, you could even be breaking the law! To avoid your jail time, we wanted to make sure we made you aware of key things you need to know about. Check this out.
Where can you mount it?
Dash cam mounting isn’t as simple as the everyday hands-free mount you’ve used with your smartphone for years. Instead, it must be placed behind the rear-view mirror. This allows the image to be perfectly centered and it captures the widest angle of the road.
This includes both lanes, as well as any signs that you pass along the way.
‘But what about the cables?’ you lament while ignoring everything we’ve just said. Well, hold on a second. Car dash cam wires are long enough to reach a power source. This ensures there’ll be no issues with connectivity.
What kind of mount, though?
Car dash cams come with either a suction-mount or one that employs double-sided tape. Both work well, but the suction cup is much more reliable than the double-sided tape version. This is mostly due to it being easy to reset and start over if you put it somewhere wrong.
It can also go from vehicle to vehicle without much issue.
Remember, with every incorrect mounting with double-sided tape, you’ll lose precious adhesiveness. That could result in your camera tumbling from its perch, probably just before an accident occurs. With that being said, we’d advise the suction version.
How do you connect it?
Your car dash cam will come with the aforementioned wires that’ll connect to ports within your car. This will more than likely be the cigarette lighter port. However, you can elect to hardwire your camera, which will connect it to the main electronics of the car.
There are a few benefits from this, including having the wires hidden. It can also turn on whenever you switch on the ignition so you’ll never forget. Most car dash cams can be hardwired, but you can’t do it yourself. This means you’ll need to employ a professional to make sure it’s done correctly.
That said, it’s an extra expense you may or may not want.
Car dash cams were mostly designed to help you in the event of collisions. However, you need to be careful about whether or not you’re using them in a legal way. Remember, laws are a bit annoying but we must follow them. We know, we thought they just handed out chocolate bars too.
Why can’t we just take them, right?
That said, we put together a guide on a few nations and their laws regarding car dash cams to help you out a bit. Take a look.
United States:
In the United States, car dash cams themselves are not technically illegal. However, in the majority of states, windshield obstruction is, in fact, illegal. As long as you’re not impeding your own view of the road, then you should be okay.
We’d suggest getting in touch with a lawyer, police officer, or local DMV just to be on the safe side.
There’s also the issue of data protection, which would inhibit the privacy of anyone traveling in your car. A solution to this, though, is to either turn off the audio recording or simply inform them that they’re being recorded. Some states do not have any laws on recording someone.
This is the same for video and audio recording, as there are not as many specifics.
In many states, only one side has to know of a recording. That means, since you’re the one side, you’re good. Not every state is the same, so call up local police stations or a DMV to see what they suggest.
However, you truly want to tell someone even if you don’t have to. Proper ethics, of course.
Canada:
There are no laws about installing a car dash cam of any kind in the country of Canada. In fact, recording your journeys on the road is perfectly fine as they are considered public areas. This means you’re not intruding on anyone else’s privacy.
However, if the camera is not mounted correctly, you could suffer similar charges to those in the United States.
Obviously, you don’t want to operate one while driving, as this is very illegal in Canada as it is in America. This falls under the same type of charge as using cell phones while driving. It may be a bit minor, but too many can add up.
United Kingdom:
Car dash cams are perfectly legal in the United Kingdom, throughout every single area. However, if it is mounted incorrectly, you could face fines from local police who see this.
You could even have any footage you’ve recorded deemed inadmissible in a courtroom setting.
If you work for a ride-sharing company like Lyft or Uber or even just as a taxi driver, then you need to inform the passenger that they’re being recorded. This is technically needed in both Canada and the United States in states or provinces that have such rules.
Anywhere Else?
In case you’re planning a trans-continental trip, we should mention that you’re prohibited from having a car dash cam at all. This includes countries such as Switzerland, but could also apply elsewhere in the world.
Before going anywhere, do your research and save yourself the hassle.
Most of the time, taking car dash cams overseas or to nations close by would be weird. After all, there are a lot of rules on rental cars and most airports won’t let you take stuff like this on a plane. That said, avoid assuming it’s okay. You honestly don’t need it in many nations.
Simply use a normal camera if you’re worried things might get bad somewhere.
On a Collision Course, Or Maybe Not…
With so many car dash cams on the market it can be a challenge to choose one that’s right for you. However, you know your driving, know your area, and know which is the best for your needs. When it comes to car dash cams, it doesn’t need to be the best, the brightest, the fanciest.
Instead, it needs to be something that you trust will keep you protected in the event of a collision.
The thing about car dash cams is that they’re not just there to place the correct blame. In fact, they’re also there to keep you honest too. It’d be great if everybody drove like they had a car dash cam, but we all know that’s not the case.
Instead, it’s up to people just like you to do your bit in keeping yourself and others in check.
We’re all prone to the odd bout of road rage every now and again. However, with proper car dash cams, perhaps things will be a little different. Why not shift into a different gear and take it a little bit easier?
It would make the road a much more peaceful place to be.
The 25 Best Pens You Can Buy at Every Price Point
In an era where communication is done through email, novels are written in word processors and bright ideas are dictated on your cell phone, you’d think there’s no more use for pens in the office world. While you may rarely need a pen these days, there’s something to be said about using them in favor of typing digitally. Taking notes on pen and pad in a meeting looks miles more professional than tapping them into Evernote, signatures always look better in ink than scribbled on a tablet and even the briefest handwritten letter looks more meaningful than any email could ever aspire to be.
In short, writing with a pen shows that you’re distinguished and give a damn about good taste, so take your handwriting seriously, and use a solid pen. From affordable disposables to luxurious fine writing utensils, these are some of the best pens for carrying out your daily office tasks, from note-taking to working on the Penske File.
Best Everyday Pens
Staedtler Pigment Liner
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Though their intended application is for sketching, Staedler Pigment Liners make great writing pens because of the bold, crisp lines they make on the page and their smooth writing action. Staedler also advertises an 18-hour cap-off time, meaning if you’re the forgetful type, you won’t be out a pen if you accidentally leave off the cap.
Ohto Slim Line
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At 0.3mm, the Ohto Slim Line is one of the finest-point ballpoints around. Besides being handsome, the Slim Line’s thin aluminum body is small enough to tuck away in smaller notebooks, and Ohto’s longstanding Japanese craftsmanship means it can hold up to a lot of abuse.
Craft Design Technologies Tradio Plastic Fountain Pen
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Designed by Japanese stationary company Craft Design Technologies, the Tradio Fountain Pen is based on Pentel’s plastic-nib Tradio fountain pen but puts it in a cleaner, simpler and more elegant package. The CDT Tradio has the same kind of smooth writing action as a traditional fountain pen, but the plastic construction it makes it a lot easier to stomach if it becomes lost or broken.
Delfonics Wooden Ballpoint Pen
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With a 0.7mm tip, the Delfonics Wooden Ballpoint Pen has a smooth writing point that makes taking notes a pleasure. A pen’s lackluster clicking mechanism can be a dealbreaker for some pen aficionados, but this Delfonics pen has a satisfying click, perfect for writers, maybe less so for office mates. The pen’s wooden body is incredibly light, making it a perfect travel companion, and the natural finish is beautiful when sticking out of a chest pocket, especially with the silver accents.
Skilcraft Ballpoint Pen
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Skilcraft’s line of pens are a surefire upgrade from your standard pack of throwaway BICs. These pens were designed and made for the US government, with the specification that they write continuously for a mile without fail between a temperature range of -40°F and 160°F. Additionally, a majority of Skilcraft’s employees are visually impaired or have a disability, so besides buying a quality writing product, purchases support a worthy cause.
Other Notables (left to right)
Marvy Uchida Le Pen ($2): Le Pen’s superfine point makes for an incredibly writing tool that is stylish and sensible.
Uni-ball Jetstream 12-Pack ($24): The Uni-ball Jetstream combines the thick, vivid lines of a gel pen with the quick-drying abilities of a ballpoint pen to create the ideal writing instrument for left-handed people, who are prone to smudged handwriting.
Zebra F-701 ($7): This sleek steel pen has the look of a pen three times its price, but with the standard reliability of a pen that you’d buy as a 50-pack.
Monami 153 12-Pack ($4): A staple in Korean offices, the Monami 153 is a workhorse made to get the job done, and it’s one pen you won’t mind losing now and again.
Best High-End Pens
Pilot Metropolitan
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If you aren’t so keen on plastic nibs and don’t want to spring for a more expensive fountain pen, the Pilot Metropolitan is one of, if not the best entry fountain pens. The Metropolitan has a hefty but streamlined body reminiscent of fountain pens 20 times its price and has a smooth writing action.
Kaweco Classic Sport
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The Kaweco Classic Sport lives up to its name: it’s based on a design from 1935, but is compact and sleek, perfect for everyday use. The gold-plated steel nib is a step up in quality for new fountain pen users, and the Kaweco’s iconic hexagonal shape will keep it from rolling off any uneven surfaces.
Fisher Original Astronaut Space Pen
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Designed in the ’40s and eventually used in NASA’s Apollo missions, the Fisher Space Pen is without a doubt one of the most iconic writing utensils of all time. Thanks to a pressurized ink cartridge, the Fisher can be used at any angle in extreme temperatures.
Caran d’Ache 849 Popline
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“Chic” and “trendy” tend to get thrown around a lot when a Popline is whipped out. While the pen is decidedly attractive, the pen has functionality to match — a refillable Goliath ink cartridge is good for filling in up to 600 A4-sized pages. Get a color for every outfit, because the Popline is a fashion accessory as much as it is a writing tool.
Grovemade Brass Pen
Grovemade
For under $100, Grovemade’s brass pens, also available in aluminum ($80) or titanium ($120) make a great future heirloom. The body is weighty because of the brass, and the pen’s facets feel good in the hand and prevent the pen from rolling off the desk. The brass will patina like a quality leather good, and it writes damn well, too
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Other Notables (left to right)
Tactile Turn Bolt-Action Pen ($119): An extra-smooth clicking mechanism makes this a great fidget device as much as it is a great pen.
Shinola x Ensso Minimalist Fountain Pen ($79): Two design-conscious brands worked together to create a pen that is both durable, functional and beautiful.
Machine Era Pen Solid Brass ($38): A substantial brass pen you’ll be happy to show off, but hesitant to lend.
Schon DSGN Pocket Six ($118): This pen is so artfully made you might forget it’s a pen and use it as a decorative piece on your desk.
Best Luxury Pens
Waterman Carene
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Though we admire almost all luxury fountain pens, they sometimes have a tendency to look a little bit stuffy. Waterman’s Carene is a perfect example of what a contemporary fountain pen should look like. Most notably, the 18-carat solid gold nib of the Carene is integrated into the pen body, making for a sleek, attractive writing instrument.
Montblanc Meisterstück 149
Montblanc
Montblancs are synonymous with fine writing instruments, but if you’re looking for the top-of-the-line pen from the Hamburg brand, you’ll want the Meisterstück 149. The Meisterstück Series has been Montblanc’s flagship range for over 90 years and the 149 was introduced in 1952 as the very top of the range. If nothing but the absolute finest writing instruments will do, this is your pen.
Lamy 2000
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Writing with a fountain pen just makes you feel like you should write as legibly as possible. The Lamy 2000 has been around since 1966 and for good reason; Lamy’s pens are made in Germany and provide the same amount of luxury as a fountain pen worth triple the price
Other Notables (left to right)
Ystudio Desk Fountain Pen ($220): For the craftsmen behind ystudio, the art of making a pen is as invaluable as the pen’s ability to convey messages and feelings through ink.
Dunhill Sidecar ($435): Inspired by a 1930s Steib sidecar, this Dunhill pen is smooth and curved like an elongated bullet, and makes writing feel like a luxury.
Graf von Faber-Castell Ballpoint Pen ($225): The use of mixed materials in a Graf von Faber-Castell elevates this pen from disposable ballpoint to family heirloom.
Chopard 1860 Rollerball ($685): If the intricately designed cap doesn’t scream “high-quality pen,” then feeling the smooth resin barrel in your hands will do it.
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The North Face’s Iconic Fleece Is on Sale Just in Time for Cooler Weather
Looking for even more great savings? Head over to Today’s Best Deals page to see all our top deals from today.
Fall is fleece season. In the years since the plush, warm-when-wet fabric was invented, that notion has been wholeheartedly embraced, first by outdoor companies and, more recently, by fashion labels too. Fleece comes in many forms though — thin and technical grid fleece is better for active pursuits while thicker pile might be more of a nod to retro style.
The North Face’s Denali lies somewhere in the middle. First released in 1988, the jacket has endured because it’s practical far beyond basecamps with a hybrid construction that features a water-resistant shell overlay. One of the few tweaks The North Face has given the Denali over the decades is that it’s now made with 100 percent recycled materials. Right now, you can pick one up for 30 percent off at REI for a savings of over $50.
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Watch Lovers Need to Check Out This New Magazine
Print is not dead. Serious digital media ups its image and is taken more seriously (please don’t call them blogs) when it also comes in a glossy (or matte) physical form you can hold in your hands. Hodinkee does it, Gear Patrol does it…What more evidence do you need that a print magazine is a natural outgrowth of growing online publications. Now one of our favorite watch enthusiast websites, Watchonista, is announcing the first volume of its new biannual magazine.
Watchonista: Volume 1, as its first issue is named, comes 11 years after the company’s founding in 2009 in Switzerland and is a milestone in its growth. It’s 120 pages, filled mostly with the type of excellent watch content Watchonista is known for, with “ninety-nine percent of the images and one hundred percent of the text” produced by Watchonista itself. It also includes a new type of content in a section called “The Lounge by Watchonista” on “watch-adjacent” interests of the staff such as cigars, spirits, books and more.
The challenge of producing print media feels like a whole other can of worms for those who grew up in digital media, but it often becomes the place for big-idea stories, collaborative efforts and higher levels of design and production. Further, it gives a publication the chance to show its best work and for fans to interact with it in a new way. Such enthusiast-specific magazines, oriented toward those with a collector mentality anyway, can themselves become collectible items.
Just as Watchonista doesn’t sell watches or anything else, the magazine will not be for sale, and can’t even be ordered from the site. You’ll have to locate it in person at certain partners’ locations, which include all US Omega boutiques, Wempe Fifth Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Mayors, Topper Jewelers, and others. To find out where you can get your hands on a copy, go to the “Find the Magazine” button on the Watchonista.com website.
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Is It Time to Take Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Seriously?
Due in large part to the ubiquity of Old No. 7, it’s widely understood Jack Daniel’s is the best-selling whiskey brand in the world. But in conversations with whiskey enthusiasts, the brand’s massive popularity isn’t seen in a positive light; it’s viewed as a label designed for affordability and easy-drinking above all else, including quality. Quietly, and between a never-ending rollout of different flavored whiskeys and canned cocktails, that might be changing.
Available starting in September, Jack Daniel’s latest is a 10-year Tennessee Whiskey. It’s the brand’s first age-stated whiskey in more than a century and the first whiskey it’s ever bottled at 97 proof. The whiskey itself is classic Old No. 7 that was moved around the aging warehouse for a few additional years.
The 10-Year release is another step in a methodical expansion into more premium whiskey. The distillery launched its single barrel lineup in 1997 with Single Barrel Select and has since added Single Barrel Barrel Proof (one of the worst-named products in whiskey), Single Barrel 100 Proof, Single Barrel Rye and one-off limited releases like 2020’s collab with country music artist Eric Church.
There are plenty of whiskey makers that balance affordable, mass market hooch with middle- and top-shelf spirits — think Evan Williams and Elijah Craig under Heaven Hill — so there’s no reason the biggest whiskey brand on the planet can’t pull it off, but it is interesting to consider that it may be its mass market appeal that dissuades premium whiskey drinkers from climbing aboard the bandwagon. Maybe we need a Jack Daniel’s Pappy Van Winkle equivalent?
Jack Daniel’s 10-Year Tennessee Whiskey will be on shelves in limited capacity in September, retailing for $70.
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Three Spirit The Collection: Tasty Alcohol-Free Beverages To Give Your Liver A Break
People have their own ways to relax after a hard day and studies encourage us to do so. Some hop online to play games with their buddies. Others choose to work out at the gym or at home. Then there are those who prefer to knock back a few drinks to get that buzz. If alcohol is not your thing, The Collection from Three Spirit might help you loosen up.
A few beers or maybe a glass or two of your favorite spirits is not bad, but sometimes things can get out of control. Going beyond your limit usually leads to a bad hangover the next day, which is very unpleasant situation for all those involved. Therefore, The Collection might help you kick the habit the natural way.
The bundle features a trio of signature blends from Three Spirit. They call it botanical alchemy as it says on the bottle’s label. You can’t really say for sure if there’s any magic in the mix but we’ll take their word for it for now. The Collection includes the Nightcap, Livener, and Social Elixir.
Now your pals who prefer not to imbibe won’t feel left out. Serve it straight or as a mixer in a virgin cocktail and enjoy. As the brand points out, each beverage formulation has specific benefits. For the Livener, it packs ingredients to invigorate.
Next is the Social Elixir, which includes active ingredients to elevate your mood. Finally, the Nightcap helps you unwind and get ready to hit the sack. There’s a brew for everyone with the Three Spirit The Collection. So give your liver a break and give your taste buds a kick with exotic flavors.
Images courtesy of Three Spirit
The Dembell Land Yacht Is One Of The Most Luxurious Motorhomes You Can Own
Normally, campers and RVs are great platforms for folks who have no qualms about roughing it outdoors. Still, if you look hard enough, there are some brands that can take it to the luxe level for a price. When the wealthy demand even more refineries, Dembell presents the Land Yacht. For the eccentric ones who fear traveling by plane or boat, this is your must-have transport.
True to its name, the German group, goes all-out for the luxurious motorhome. Only high-class design and craftsmanship with premium materials go into each Land Yacht. With some exceptions, most RVs and campers prefer modular systems to optimize the limited space available.
Dembell, on the other hand, does not constrain itself with such issues. To address this, clients can configure their Land Yacht with multiple motorized slide-out sections. They choose to have it for the living area, kitchen, and bedroom. As for the interior, they’ve partnered with an Italian studio that worked with Azimut Yachts.
Although you can likely personalize everything according to your tastes, there are three themes for reference. The cockpit features four separate seats with air spring systems and massage functions to help you relax. Above that, there is a lift-away section that houses a queen size bed for guests and children.
The kitchen is equipped with high-end Miele appliances. Entertainment comes from 55-inch TVs with a Bose sound system. Meanwhile, the classy bathroom has a large shower area with sinks, a toilet, and a shower tray in ceramic. Dembell keeps you comfortable in cold weather with a central heating setup. Depending on the trim, the Land Yacht even has adequate garage space to house your supercar.
Images courtesy of Dembell
How to Buy a Watch Strap
Editor’s Note: So you’re ready to make a watch purchase? Not so fast. Before committing, it’s worth thinking carefully about your needs to make sure you’re truly buying the right timepiece for you. Our series Five Questions aims to help you do just that.
You can make a single watch feel almost like a collection with a few different strap options. But there are so many styles, materials and other factors to consider that buying a new strap can be a confusing proposition. So before you buy, consider the following five questions:
What activities will I be doing with this watch?
There is the question of dressy or casual, of course, but there are physical considerations for your strap as well: For instance, dive watches that you plan to actually wear in the water need an appropriate strap. Metal bracelets, rubber, nylon, etc. are all fine for this, but no leather. The same is generally true for sweaty activities.
Climate and weather might also be an issue, as some materials and strap types are especially designed to be breathable, for example. If you’re engaging in a particularly rough activity where you and your watch are getting significantly banged around, even the strap’s durability might be a factor.
What type of strap should I get?
What kind of watch are you outfitting? Start by determining if the watch itself is of the casual or formal variety, and then whether you are looking to dress it up or down. A dressy watch gets a leather strap, you may think. Alas, if only it were that simple: Alligator, suede, nubuck, ostrich…delve more into great leather strap options here. With sport watches, it gets even more complicated, but also fun.
You should first determine the type of watch you have — i.e., what its design was intended for: diving, racing, flying, military use? Different genres of watches often have associated strap styles, and while these straps are a good place to start, there’s still plenty of room to be creative.
What will look best with my watch?
Once you’ve established the type of strap that’s right for your watch, consider the colors involved. If you’ve got a monochromatic watch with a simple design and black dial like, say, an Omega Speedmaster, Panerai or Rolex Submariner…well, the choices are endless.
The colors of the dial (or even the case) and the strap’s primary material are the obvious factors that will influence your choice, but also think about highlights — like a sporty red seconds hand potentially matching a strap’s stitching. Finally, materials are make a big difference. That means not only the strap material itself, but the hardware — many strap companies offer different types of buckles, but offer them in different finishes — like brushed or polished — as well as with black or gold coatings.
What size strap does my watch/wrist need?
This is crucial, but it’s a two-part question of width and length.
First, the width. You’ll need to know the measurement between your watch’s lugs in millimeters — the part of the watch where the strap attached. For most mens watches, 18mm, 20mm or 22mm is standard — though odd numbers like 19mm can be found on some vintage watches, and a giant Panerai or the like might feature a 24mm or 26mm lug width. (Many straps then taper toward the buckle.)
Next, consider the length of the strap. You’ll want to known the diameter of your wrist — or you can measure a strap you already have that fits well. Ask or check the strap’s description carefully: the length information can usually be found. It’s a bummer to get a strap that looks great on the watch only to find that it’s either too loose or too tight on your wrist — punching an additional hole on long strap doesn’t always work out well, though it can be done in a pinch.
How much should I spend?
The hobby of strap swapping is fun in part because it doesn’t have to cost a lot — as so many watches themselves do. NATO straps are an incredibly popular and inexpensive (often starting under $10) way to change up the feel of your watch regularly and add some fun and color to it. They’re super easy to swap out, and they look great, to boot.
However, don’t discount the idea of spending more for something nicer. Many watch nerds will expound on how a high-quality strap can elevate the look and feel of even a simple and inexpensive watch. Thankfully, there are nearly endless strap choices at every budget.
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AVI-8 Honors The P-51 Mustang And A Renowned Pilot With The Hitchcock Automatic
Aviation-inspired design remains a popular theme used by some of the world’s leading watchmakers. There is no clear-cut blueprint that defines this style, which encourages creativity, and we want it to stay that way. With a name like AVI-8, you know this brand means business. To showcase their love for iconic aircrafts of the past, we have the Hitchcock Automatic.
There are four variants available for this striking collection: Cooperstown, Greentree, Meadow Brook, and Sands Point. AVI-8 says the Hitchcock Automatic is a tribute to Thomas “Tommy” Hitchcock Jr. He was a national polo champ and member of the Lafayette Escadrille unit.
Moreover, the man was a key contributor to the development of the legendary P-51 Mustang fighter plane during World War II. AVI-8 goes with a 43-mm stainless steel case with a brushed finish. The crown guard supposedly echoes the engine exhaust of the aircraft it honors.
The fixed bezel holds a sapphire crystal that protects the striking dial below. We love the distressed metal finish that essentially makes each watch unique. They did a wonderful job with the visuals of the Hitchcock Automatic here.
There is a mix of applied indices, cutouts for the Arabic numerals, and the raised minute track give it a lot of character. These all tie in to make it look like a vintage flight instrument used in cockpits before digital clusters took over.
The skeletonized hands and date window at 6 o’clock run on a an NH35 self-winding movement. Meanwhile, the sapphire crystal on the exhibition case back is printed with the words “Ten Goal Tommy” in a vibrant font. Finally, the Hitchcock Automatic sports a padded leather strap based on the seats of the P-51 Mustang.
Images courtesy of AVI-8
Keep Those Bums Warm In The Cold With The Coleman OneSource Heated Stadium Seat
Stadiums are starting to pack with people again to watch sports events despite the uncertainty of the end of the pandemic. With this said, it’s time to bring out those comfortable seat pads that keep our bum toasty. After all, we never know when we might have to sit through hours of a thrilling game during the winter months. This brings us then to one trusted brand when it comes to outdoor gear, Coleman, and its OneSource Heated Stadium Seat.
This seat warmer runs on a 4800 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, an interchangeable one that also works with all the brand’s OneSource products. It features four adjustable heat settings: high (133°F), medium (123°F), low (113°F), and pulse (low to high). On a full charge, it can go 1.5 hours on high, 2.0 on medium, 3.0 on low, and 2.5 hours on the pulse setting.
Best of all, it works with dual batteries for longer warmth periods thanks to its dual-port dock, which technically doubles the runtime. The battery even works as a portable charger to power your phone or other devices. Meanwhile, a bleacher hook wraps around the base of the bleacher to keep it secured on the seat no matter your movements.
When it comes to transport, the Coleman OneSource Heated Stadium Seat is portable in size. This seat pad folds in half for easy storage while the metal support bar doubles as a carrying handle during travel. It is also guaranteed durable and ideal for outdoor use thanks to its stainless steel frame and weather-resistant fabric with nontoxic PU coating that protects it from rain and water.
Images courtesy of Coleman
Nike Goes For Another Collaboration With The Travis Scott x Fragment Air Jordan 1 Low
The gang is back at it again following the success of their recent collaboration. We have Nike, Travis Scott, and Fragment Design to thank for their cool take on the Air Jordan 1 High. If you missed out, then that’s too bad. For those who don’t mind another silhouette then you’re in luck because we’re getting the Travis Scott x Fragment Air Jordan 1 Low.
Hiroshi Fujiwara has been very busy since the start of the year. It shows with the growth of his catalog of partnerships. Who knows? Perhaps after the Travis Scott x Fragment Air Jordan 1 Low, there might be another on the way.
Anyway, Nike describes its latest foray as a prime illustration of the “rule of three” and we agree. The trio comes together to give this popular sneaker their respective artistic touches. It retains the iconic retro look with its premium leather upper in white, with black overlays, eyestays, and mudguards.
Shades of Military Blue are on the heel, collar, lining, insole, and outsole. The Travis Scott x Fragment Air Jordan 1 Low then features laces, a reverse Swoosh logo on the lateral sides, and an aged midsole in the shade of sail. The Swoosh logos on the medial sides are in black and are in the original direction. We also like how they are keeping the co-branding subtle here.
Fujiwara’s signature serial numbers are printed on the medial part of the midsole close to the heel. There’s also the double lightning bolt emblem on the right heel just below the classic Air Jordan badge on the right sneaker. Meanwhile, the left one shows a Cactus Jack branding on the heel counter with the logo right below. The Travis Scott x Fragment Air Jordan 1 Low are available now.
Images courtesy of Nike
Get Fun and Engaging Workouts With The LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer
The COVID-19 pandemic has people either turning to food to relieve anxiety or pounding the floor to get fit and healthy. If you fall on the latter then you might want to add the LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer to your home gym.
This exercise machine gives you a total body workout via punching and cycling. That’s a combo of cardio and strength training to help you trim fat, build lean muscles, and improve endurance. It even has an accompanying mobile app where you can see set up fun and engaging workout sessions, view stats, and more.
On the outside, the LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer may look menacing. But it is easy to operate and engaging too. It has an interactive screen where you choose your workouts and see readouts for distance, calories, speed, and accuracy. It even comes with a chest strap to track heart rate and beats per minute. Likewise, the punch pad makes boxing entertaining with flashing color targets that let you score points for every target met.
This gym equipment also caters to your comfort while you work out. As such, the exercise bike has an adjustable punch pad and seat, where you can adjust the fore and aft position of the seat. The gloves also leave your thumbs free to access your phone or water bottle, while toe cages and adjustable straps keep your feet secured on the pedals.
The LifeSpan Fitness Cycle Boxer has a max weight capacity of 300lbs. and comes with two front-mounted wheels for easy transport. It’s in a robust, durable all-steel construction with a solid base to keep you balanced for whatever move you make on the bike or on the punching mat.
Images courtesy of LifeSpan Fitness
Run Faster and Further with These Compression Tights
2XU (Two Times You) is on a mission to create a fitter, healthier world through its activewear. In an effort to inspire people to commit to change, 2XU creates products that help you crush your fitness goals. This includes a range of compression garments that can literally help you run faster. Designed with performance in mind, the Light Speed Compression Tights can help you train harder and recover faster.
2XU
2XU
Performance
The Light Speed Compression Tights contain Muscle Containment Stamping (MCS) on the inside of the tight. The stamping traces key muscle groups to reduce movement and provide extra compression support.
Reduced Injury
Designed with performance in mind and made with graduated compression that boosts blood flow to muscles, these tights can help reduce the risk of injury so you can take your training to the next level safely.
Speedy Recovery
With an increase in blood lactate removal and reduced swelling to the thigh and calf, these tights reduce muscle soreness allowing you to get back to your training sooner.
Price: $120
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