All posts in “Gear”

Porsche Type 301 10″ Chef’s Knife

This Porsche Type 301 10″ Knife comes in. With a refined Japanese steel blade and an ergonomic stainless handle, this knife make slicing, dicing and chopping as easy as ever so you can prepare restaurant…

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Affordable Alternatives to the Most Iconic Watches Ever

Despite the liberal use of the term in marketing, only a small number of watches qualify as genuinely “iconic.” Though many of those were born of practicality, they’re inevitably luxury items today with status and prestige linked to their price tags. They might be worth saving up for, but what if the name on the dial is less important to you than a satisfying watch-wearing experience?

The good news is that those covetable classics have had outsized influence on the industry. Many watchmakers have outright tried to cop the style of iconic watches, while others have learned from their success and integrated their lessons in subtler ways. In other words, there are some good options out there offering similar looks or features that don’t cost as much as the classics.

The Rolex Submariner, Omega Speedmaster, Cartier Tank… below you’ll find great alternatives to these and more classic watches to scratch your itch or hold you off while you fill those penny jars.

Rolex Submariner

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Three dive watches offer handsome, versatile and strong-value alternatives to the most iconic watch of all time.

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Omega Speedmaster

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Watches from Bulova, Farer and Bell & Ross offer a similar look and versatile appeal of the Speedy for far less money.

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Cartier Tank

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Three dress watches offer alternatives to the Cartier Tank experience, with classic looks that stand out among so many round watches.

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

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Watches from Tutima, Maurice Lacroix and Dietrich offer compelling alternatives the watch that defined the integrated-bracelet, steel-luxury-watch look.

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Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

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These three handsome chronograph watches offer attractive alternatives to the classic Rolex Daytona.

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Rolex GMT Master II

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Watches from Timex, Baltic and Tudor offer the distinctive bicolor-bezel look you’re after.

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Patek Philippe Calatrava

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The Calatrava is perhaps the platonic ideal of the dress watch — but they ain’t cheap. Here are a few watches with a similar look for much less scratch.

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Is This the Smartest Air Purifier on the Market?

Between fears over coronavirus and being cooped up at home practically 24/7, air purifiers have been a hot ticket item in 2020, continuing into the new year. Coway and Blueair are stalwarts in the category, but Mila, which started as a Kickstarter project, is giving the legacy brands a run for their money.

Mila made its Kickstarter debut in late 2019, and there was no way the brand would know how badly the population would be itching for a unit in the near future. Since its first shipments of the air purifier in June 2020, the brand sold out of two production runs. And with an inaugural product that no one could test out yet, shoppers had to reply on the brand’s lofty claims about its product’s effectiveness. From its promise of offering unparalleled information on your indoor air quality to the basic premise of it working or not, Mila had a lot to uphold. I took Mila for a test run, and this is how it went.

Price (Amazon): $358, includes one filter | Price (Mila): $299, $59+/filter

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What’s Good

Air purifiers come with a set of terms and phrases that can make shopping for a unit daunting. Mila understands this struggle, and while it doesn’t simplify the science of air purifiers, it does make it easy for people to understand just what the heck is going on with their air quality. Most judge an air purifier by its clean-air delivery rating, or CADR, which is the measurement of an air purifier’s effectiveness by noting the volume of clean air produced per minute based on the space of a room. The higher the number, the better, and Mila clocks in at 447 for rooms up to 1,000 square feet, an impressive feat.

air purifier in room next to chair and plant

Mila

Mila’s greatest asset is that you can set your device up (fairly quickly, I might add) and have it working in the background, making sure your indoor air quality is always at its best. After a quick calibration and app synchronization, Mila is ready to go in either manual or auto mode. In manual, you can set your target air quality index (the lower the better), or AQI, and it’ll tell you how long it will take to get there. Auto mode gives Mila full control and you can essentially leave it running without having to worry about making adjustments. Mila tracks more than AQI. It also has sensors to keep track of the bad stuff in the air, such as particulates and volatile organic compounds (commonly referred to as VOCs) as well as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

Most air purifiers feature one type of filter for its unit, but Mila offers seven, each with a playful name that clues you into what the filter is tailored for. What’s important to note is that they’re all True HEPA filters — which remove 99.97 percent of particulates measuring .3 micron in diameter — and feature various carbon filters that are either multi-use or adept at targeting at specific concerns. I’m currently using the Basic Breather filter, and even as the base-level filter, it’s been working well.

top view of air purifier's digital display

Mila

The air purifier contains a host of features that make this a thoughtful device for everyday living. A sleep mode allows users to set their daily bedtime so Mila knows when to quiet down, and there’s even a white noise mode to assist with sleeping. Besides keeping track of air quality, Mila keeps track of you, but not in a creepy way. A motion sensor can keep track of when you enter a room so it quiets down, and if you get close enough, it’ll light up the display panel.

What’s Not As Good

As smart as Mila is, there’s a question as to why the unit operates with a manual on/off switch. Because of this, you can’t turn power on or turn off the device remotely. Also, the air purifier does not work with voice assistants, which is odd for a smart device.

Mila is adept at purifying various size rooms, but because it does lean on the larger side — 11.8 inches by 15.5 inches — it does take up a considerable amount of space in a small room. In those instances a smaller model would better serve a small room. Subjectively, Mila looks good and not like a sterile piece of medical equipment, nor does it look or feel like cheap plastic. If you suffer from trypophobia, or the discomfort of seeing tightly packed clusters of holes, bumps or patterns, Mila may be a trigger. As someone who does have trypohobia, however, Mila does not induce the same visceral reaction I’ve had when looking at other triggers.

The cheapest filter that Mila offers is $59, and a subscription service sends you a fresh filter every six months. Having a washable filter would have been nice to help cut down on costs, but then there’s the whole issue of having to wash out a grimy filter every so often.

Alternatives

Any air purifier with smart capabilities is a rival to the Mila air purifier. The Coway Airmega AP-1512HHS ($299) and the Dyson TP04 ($550) both have similar app functionalities, and offer a wealth of information, but neither is as in-depth or offers as many features as Mila and its app. Mila has an exceptionally high CADR rating that rivals those of large-room units that cost hundreds of dollars more, notably the Coway Airmega 400 ($649) and Coway Airmega 400S ($749), the model that works with the Coway app. The plethora of filters that Mila offers means that the one unit can be tailored to address different air-quality worries without having to buy multiple units that specialize in one area of interest.

Verdict

Whether you care about getting into the minutiae of your indoor air quality or not, Mila is an excellent air purifier. It’s priced competitively when compared to pricier models from brands such as Coway and Dyson, and the plethora of info you get from the unit itself and the app ensures you that the thing actually works. Mila also cares about longevity. Constant firmware and app updates will mean your device continues to work day after day. Signing up for a filter subscription will be a godsend because Mila is truly a set-it-and-forget-it type of air purifier; you might forget it’s there, but the brand will make sure you always get a fresh filter every six months. Basically, Mila stays smart so you don’t have to.

Price (Amazon): $358, includes one filter | Price (Mila): $299, $59+/filter

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Tyler Chin is Gear Patrol’s Associate Staff Writer.

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Save 30% Off Sitewide at Levi’s

Looking for even more great savings? Head over to Today’s Best Deals page to see all our top deals from today.


If you’re dreaming of adding some new denim to your wardrobe, you’re in luck. Levi’s is offering up to 30 percent off sitewide. To take advantage of the savings, use the code PREZ30 at checkout to get discounted clothing, shoes and more. That’s not all though, as Levi’s is also an extra 50 percent off sale items with the same code.

So if you want to get a classic western shirt, a denim trucker jacket or even just a great pair of jeans, you won’t have to break the bank to do it.

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Morning Alarm Stressing You Out? Check Out This Discounted Smart Alarm Clock

Looking for even more great savings? Head over to Today’s Best Deals page to see all our top deals from today.


Ever since the inception of the alarm clock, it has been characterized by its loud ring and images of sleepers hammering the snooze button with a groan. Regardless of the alarm you use, it is likely defined by its shrill tone and ability to snap you out of your slumber as quickly as possible. That doesn’t have to be the only way. Right now, you can get Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light — an alarm that wakes you with light that mimics the sunrise — for $80, which is 20 percent off the regular price.

It may seem like a lot to pay for an alarm, but there are many benefits to waking up this way. There is no jumping out of bed to snooze, no shrill sounds; just a light that clicks on and slowly gets brighter as you get to your desired wake-up time, followed by one of five nature sounds that have been pre-downloaded onto the clock. You can, however, go old school with FM radio if you’d like. Waking up with light has been proven to improve your mood and help you get a more peaceful sleep — Philips has spent 20 years perfecting this technology. Plus, deep winter is likely the time you need the boost the most.

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11 Style Releases and New Watches We’re Obsessed About This Week

The weekend is here, and so are some watch and style drops you won’t want to miss. Collabs continue to keep it fresh with the likes of Barbour and Noah teaming up on the style front, and one of our favorite French watchmakers made a highly compelling new dive watch with our buddies over at the watch website Worn & Wound. There are jackets and pullovers to see you through a cold February, some lust-worthy watches and much more in this week’s roundup. Stay warm, and enjoy!

Yema x Worn & Wound Superman Maxi Dial Limited Edition Watch

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Collaborating with the website Worn & Wound, Yema gave its popular Superman dive watch a “maxi” dial — meaning the markers are bolded. The somewhat quirky look results in one of the coolest versions of the (already awesome) Superman automatic dive watch yet — and a reasonable price makes it all the better.

Price: $990

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Noah x Barbour Waxed Bedale Jacket

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Barbour’s iconic Bedale has a fresh coat of paint for NYC-based brand Noah. While it looks fresh, the coat still features a water-resistant waxed cotton shell, a corduroy collar, a heavy-duty zipper and two bellow front pockets.

Price: $770 Sold Out

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Grand Seiko Heritage Series 9 SLGH005 Watch

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Fascinating textured dials are one of Grand Seiko’s trademarks — one of these, in the brand’s newest release, is meant to reference birch bark. The SLGH005 watch has all the traits the brand is celebrated for, from zaratsu polishing to exquisite detail, and it’s powered by an in-house high-beat (5Hz, rather than the more common 4Hz) automatic movement.

Price: $9,100

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Everlane Track Hoodie

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Made from organic cotton French terry, this sweatshirt features a hood devoid of a drawstring, raglan sleeves, a front kangaroo pocket and a relaxed silhouette. It’s got a worn-in vintage look, but will still stand up to years of use.

Price: $60

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Oris Aquis GMT Whale Shark Dive Watch

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This version of Oris’s flagship dive watch features a GMT and was created in collaboration with underwater photographer and brand ambassador Gerardo del Villar to raise awareness of the endangered whale shark. The dial features a cool embossed shark-skin texture.

Price: $3,200

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Volcom Burch Long Sleeve Tee

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Unparalled minds of a parallel universe. Legendary surfer and shaper Ryan Burch lends his art to this wild shirt — “all-shaping eyes” on a highlighter green tie-dye.

Price: $38

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Panerai Luminor Marina Platinumtech PAM 1116 Watch

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Panerai makes tough, tool-style watches, but they are simultaneously high-end luxury items — even in steel. In platinum, the new PAM1116 is even swankier, but this is no typical soft and easily scratched platinum. Rather, it’s a special Panerai alloy made to be harder and more resistant to wear. On top of all this, it comes with a 70-year warranty.

Price: $36,900

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Goldwin Element Jacket

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Made in Japan, this lightweight jacket is made from water-resistant Pertex Shield Air fabric that’s seam-sealed for additional protection. It has a unique external pull-out mesh pocket for storing wet items like a beanies or gloves. The Element jacket has a relaxed fit so you’ll have maximum mobility no matter your activities.

    Price: $400

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    Luminox Bear Grylls Air Series Watch

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    In a continuing collaboration with celebrity survivalist Bear Grylls, Luminox completes its collection of air-land-sea outdoor watches with an aviation-themed new release. This one features a GMT complication, 200m of water resistance and, of course, tritium tube illumination.

    Price: $695-$795

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    Eddie Bauer X Baja East Sherpa Pullover

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    This limited-edition pullover was designed with Los Angeles-based Baja East. Made from hefty-yet-soft, curly sherpa fleece it features a brushed fleece interior, a front kangaroo pocket and a relaxed fit.

    Price: $189

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    Bulova Precisionist Watch

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    Bulova’s hyper-accurate Precisionist tech features a 262kHz quartz movement that allows measurement down to 1/1,000th of a second, and unlike most quartz watches, it also offers a smooth-sweeping seconds hand. The brand is celebrating 10 years of the technology with a new, sportily styled model.

    Price: $975-$995

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Sonos Has Something New Coming: Here’s What We Know So Far

Sonos has officially confirmed that its next hardware event will held on March 9. And with an upcoming product announcement comes the obvious question: What are we getting? Here’s what we know so far.

It’s probably something physically small.

The official invite features a model with a backpack, walking outside, which suggests that the new product most likely will be something small and portable. It’s not just the photo though, there are also rumors that indicate Sonos is likely to go in one of two directions.

One option is a small, portable speaker.

The more likely of the two rumors is that Sonos is going to announced a new portable speaker — likely a smaller and cheaper version of the Move. Sonos announced the Move, its first technically portable Bluetooth speaker, back in late 2019 and while it’s arguably the best-sounding portable speaker you can buy, its $399 price tag makes it a hard-sell for the masses. It’s also quite large; this is a room-to-room portable speaker, not a building-to-building portable speaker.

Like the original Move, the new smaller Sonos speaker would likely have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you could use it outside the home or as multi-room speaker in a larger Sonos system. There’s not really anything that suggests pricing for the new smaller Move speaker, but a $199 price point would make it competitive with some of the most popular Bluetooth speakers, like UE Boom 2 and Bose’s SoundLink Revolve. An FCC filing of an unnamed device with a wireless charging dock, which was first spotted by The Verge earlier this year, gives credence to this rumor.

There’s an outside chance that it’s headphones.

The less likely of the two rumors is that Sonos is going to release a premium pair of noise-canceling headphones — think of them as a competitor to the AirPods Max, although Sonos’s headphones might not be as expensive as Apple’s new cans. These Sonos headphones have been rumored about for what seems like years. Bloomberg first reported that they were in the works back in January of 2019. And the most recent rumors were reported by Protocol, who uncovered a new patent that was awarded to Sonos for a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Sonos has yet to release a pair of headphones and it’s unclear exactly how they’d work. They’d likely have built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, similar to company’s Move speaker, but it would make sense if they would be able to work as dedicated headphones for anybody with a Sonos home theater. They could support surround sound technologies, like Dolby Atmos, and be a listening option for when the rest of the house is asleep (or working) and you don’t want to disturb them.

We’ll find out for sure next month.

The Sonos hardware event will take place on March 9 at 4pm EST or 1pm PST.

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We Just Learned More About This Insane Off-Road Porsche 911

Gemballa is one of the most iconic names in custom Porsches. Famed tuner Uwe Gemballa’s company has been building 911s in Germany since the 1980s, but his son, Marc Philipp Gemballa, has recently started his own Porsche modification firm — cleverly named Marc Philipp Gemballa GmbH. And we’ve just learned a lot more about the top-secret Porsche 959-inspired off-road 911 the company is working on.

We know now that the vehicle has a name: Project Sandbox. It will be based on the 911 Turbo S model of the 992-generation Porsche 911. MPG will sell 40 examples in total, with the initial 10 designated as “launch edition” models; said launch edition models have already reportedly sold out.

In addition to the bespoke carbon fiber body designed by Alan Derosier, MPG is partnering with another famed Porsche tuner, RUF Automobile, to give Project Sandbox a modified version of the 992-gen Turbo’s engine. The “Powered by RUF” engine will put out 750-plus horsepower — 100-plus hp more than the standard 911 Turbo S— and 686 lb-ft of torque. MPG and RUF will also offer the standalone engine upgrade for conventional Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S models.

More exciting: Project Sandbox is expected to arrive very soon. MPG will unveil its off-road 911 this spring, with vehicles set to enter production later this year.

There’s no mention of how much the Project Sandbox builds will cost. However, we imagine these cars will be in the “if that’s even a remote concern for you, you probably can’t afford it” luxury realm. After all, the stock 911 Turbo S starts at $203,500.

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Toyota Just Made Building the Ultimate Off-Road Tacoma Easier

If you were to make a list of the coolest trucks on sale today in America, it’d be hard not to include the Toyota Tacoma. That said, one of the first things many Tacoma buyers do after buying a new one is figuring out how to modify their new truck to make it even cooler. Now, Toyota has announced it will save many of them some trouble — by offering a dealer-installed TRD Lift Kit.

The TRD Lift Kit provides a two-inch lift in front and a one-inch lift in back. It also adds TRD-tuned Bilstein monotube shocks, as well as a TRD Pro-style front grille to set modified Tacos apart from the rest of the Party Pack.

The TRD Lift Kit improves the ground clearance by 1.7 inches, bringing the total to 11.1 inches. It also improves the approach angle to 32º ( an increase of 3.1º), the breakover angle to 23º (+1.6º) and the departure angle to 24º (+0.5º). Best of all, unlike aftermarket lift kit options, the TRD Lift Kit is compatible with Toyota’s Safety Sense driver assistant technology.

Toyota will offer the TRD Lift Kit on every 2020 and 2021 model year V6 4×4 Tacoma — with two exceptions. It won’t be available on the TRD Pro, which has its own lift and suspension upgrades and the grille; it also won’t be offered on V6 Tacos with a double cab and the long bed.

The TRD Lift Kit will cost $1,350, plus labor at the dealership, which is estimated at 4–5 hours. The parts come with a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty if done at the time of sale, or a one-year, 12,000 miles if performed afterward. The latter note presumably means that if you’ve already bought a 2020-plus Tacoma, you can bring it back to the dealer and have it installed.

Adding a dealer-installed lift kit is not as crazy as Jeep maybe doing in-house customizations, or Ford offering base Bronco customers the full-on Sasquatch package . However, it’s still a cool, relatively affordable alternative to leveling up to the TRD Pro, which starts at $44,175.

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ROM Knife Makes Gorgeous Damascus Knives That Are Actually Affordable

When it comes to knives that look as good as they cut, there’s Damascus and everything else. That’s where ROM Knife–aka Romance of Men–comes in with their high quality, stylish and razor sharp Damascus steel.…

The post ROM Knife Makes Gorgeous Damascus Knives That Are Actually Affordable first appeared on Cool Material.

How to Get Rid of Your Old Laptop

An old laptop or computer is made up of unusual and toxic components (like an old lithium ion battery), so it can’t just go into the trash our out with your curbside recycling.

Fortunately, most big tech companies (including Apple, Google, Samsung and Microsoft) and big gadget retailers (like Best Buy and eBay) have recycling programs that are specifically for people who want to get rid of their old laptops and computers.

Before recycling your old laptop or computer, you want to make sure all your information is backed up and that your old laptop is factory reset. There’s likely a lot of personal information on that laptop and you’ll sleep easier knowing you’ve fully removed it yourself.

Once your old laptop or computer has been prepped for recycling, you need to figure out what to do with it. The first thing we recommend doing is checking the trade-in programs of these various manufacturers and third-party retailers. A lot of times you can get some money back or a gift card, which could be put up against a future purchase. If your laptop doesn’t have any trade-in value, don’t worry — most of these programs will still take it and recycle it properly anyway.

The Recycling Programs

Apple Trade In: If you have a Mac, a good option is to go through Apple’s Trade In Program. You simply select the model of computer you’re sending in, type in the serial number and they’ll send you a trade-in quote (It likely won’t be for every much.) Once accepted, it’ll then tell you where to take or send your old computer.

Dell Trade-In & Recycling Program: If you have an old Dell or laptop computer, you can trade it in fairly easily using the company’s program. You simply go to the website and follow the steps, entering the model and serial number of your laptop or computer, and they’ll give you a quote. If you just want to recycle it and don’t want money back, Dell will send you a free Fedex shipping label (you’ll need to supply the box) — you just need to fill out this form.

• Google’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive: Google works with a third-party recycling partner who only accepts used electronic devices that are “equivalent to a device” that Google manufactures; while it’s not exactly clear, this likely means any laptop from the last several years. You won’t get any trade-in value, but you can request free shipping label. You can return up to three old devices for free.

Microsoft Trade In & Recycling Program: If you have an old Microsoft laptop or desktop and you want to get some trade-in value for it, Microsoft has a program just for that. If you’re device isn’t eligible for trade-in, you can still recycle it for free. Simply go to this webpage and follow the necessary steps.

Lenovo Product Recycling Program: Lenovo has a free recycling program for anybody with an old computer by Lenovo, Medion and IBM. They also have a trade-in program — here — in case you want to see if you can get any money back.

Samsung Recycling Direct: If you have old laptop or Chromebook from Samsung, you can drop it off at any one of the company’s recycling drop offs. You can find the nearest drop-off location by visiting here.

Best Buy Trade-In/Recycling: Best Buy has a pretty robust trade-in program and you can pretty easily check to see if your old computer or gadgets are worth anything using the company’s online trade-in estimator, and then trade it in for a Best Buy gift card. If it’s not worth anything you, can have it recycled for free through the company’s recycling program. (Note: you might have to recycle online because not all brick-and-mortar stores accept recycled computers.)

Earth911: This is a website that’s been designed to specifically help you find a place to drop off your old electronics so that they can be recycled. You simply go to the website, type the type of electronics you want to get rid of in the search bar as well as your ZIP code, and it’ll tell you the nearest drop-off locations.

Amazon Secure Electronics Recycling Bins: Amazon works with ERI, a renowned recycling company, to allow anybody to drop off their old electronics in large recycling bins that you can find at select locations. To find the location nearest to you, you can search here.

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The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris Getaway Camper Van Makes Getting Away a Cinch

mercedes benz getaway camper van

Mercedes-Benz

If you’re looking to spend a bit more than $60,000 on a Mercedes-Benz product, you have quite a few options to choose from. A Mercedes-AMG C43 or CLA45 would certainly be a tempting choice for those with a thirst for power; a GLE 350 is alluring for those seeking a great all-around jack-of-all-trades; and anyone craving as much luxury as possible would be best-served by taking an entry-level E-Class sedan and loading it up with fancy add-ons.

Or, you could skip all those choices and buy a full-size van with a bed on top.

Granted, odds are good very few people are actually cross-shopping the new Mercedes-Benz Metris Getaway with anything else in the Three-Pointed Star showroom. You’re more likely to consider it against, say, an Airstream Bambi to tow behind your existing truck or SUV, or against one of the many other camper vans offered through independent conversion companies across America.

But the Getaway packs something those other vans lack: the imprimatur of an automaker. Not just any automaker; Mercedes-Benz. The folks who not only use “the best or nothing” as their slogan, but pay Jon Hamm big bucks to make sure you don’t forget it.

To find out whether the Getaway works as a mobile campsite worthy of its esteemed badge, we originally planned a week-long camping trip with it out West in the spring of 2020. Then, y’know, COVID-19 happened. So by the time we finally laid hands on the van in New York, it was late October, and the campgrounds were cold. So, rather than go all Matt Foley in Manhattan and live in our van down by the East River, my girlfriend and I spent a day driving around upstate to get a feel for what the van is like on the road, then parked it in Manhattan and turned it into a two-person night club.

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The Metris Getaway isn’t much to drive, but that’s not the point

The Yamaha Super Ténéré parked next to the Metris here is a far, far more entertaining way to explore nature than Mercedes-Benz’s camper van — at least, from the sense of operator engagement. The turbocharged inline-four’s 208 horses and 258 lb-ft are enough to keep up with traffic, but not much else; the seven-speed automatic has its work cut out for it when passing and merging. (2021 models have been upgraded to a nine-speed automatic, for what it’s worth.)

Likewise, anyone accustomed to the ride and handling of the rest of the Mercedes-Benz portfolio will find this Metris a bit lacking. This is, after all, a full-size van — a product designed more for commercial use than personal luxury. It’s not bad; it’s just not designed for the same role as other Benzes.

Inside, space is first and foremost

Abandon any preconceptions about what the interior of a $60,000 Mercedes should look like at the sliding door, or else you’ll be in for a shock. There’s no plush carpeting, no acres of leather, no wood trim. The materials are all solid, but they scream “workhorse,” not “

What there is in abundance: space. With the rear bench in its upright and locked position, there’s practically enough room between the front and back seats to throw a line dance. There’s a built-in table on a metal bar that snaps into place between the rows when needed, and the front seats swivel around to turn the center into a comfortable dining space for four. Curtains on the windows provide much-appreciated privacy, as well.

Pop the top for maximum space

Like many a pop-top camper van of yore, the rising roof of the Getaway does double-duty. First and foremost, of course, it’s a place to sleep, complete with a surprisingly comfortable tw-inch-thick memory foam mattress and enough space for a couple of tall adults to stretch out (vertically, at least — horizontal space is around that of a double bed).

But that mattress can also be quickly and easily pushed up to sit flush with the roof, creating enough room inside for even people in the 99th percentile of height to stand tall and proud.

Case in point:

At six-foot-four, I could stand very comfortably up in the center of the van with ample room above my head. The sloping angle of the erected tent means max headroom drops off as you walk towards the rear of the van, but even in the very back, it’s a noticeable improvement over just about any other vehicle you

Obviously, being tall helps you access the top bunk when the mattress is in sleeping position, as well. Entry and egress comes via a wide slot near the front end of the vehicle; anyone tall enough (or, I suppose, short enough but packing ample upper body strength) can simply lever themselves up and into the “bedroom” as though climbing out of a pool.

The Getaway offers a room with a view

Once you’re up there, the experience is rather like being in a rooftop tent such as a Roofnest: you have the stability of being atop a solid platform (albeit one that rocks a little on its wheels) and the security that comes with being out of reach of most critters that might be curious to pop by in the night and see what smells so funny.

You also score the incredible views and refreshing breezes that come with waking up six-plus feet above the ground, whether it’s sunrise through the forest or sunset over the beach. And whereas the only way out of a rooftop tent is down a ladder in the open air, you can drop into the cabin of the Metris to get dressed in privacy before venturing out to answer nature’s call.

There are other perks of going pop-top over rooftop sleeper, too. Unlike many a less-expensive roof tent, the Metris’s sleeping arrangements don’t preclude the use of the roof rack; surfboards, skis or bicycles can ride up there when you’re driving from town to town. And unlike all rooftop tents, you score the added bonus of not having to worry about the unlikely-but-unsettling thought of your sleeping quarters detaching from your roof and flying away in the wind at 75 miles per hour.

The Gear You Absolutely Need for Car Camping

Car camping makes getting away easy as pie. These items will make it even tastier.

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I call top bunk! (And you should too)

The upper deck accommodations are clearly the master suite; the mattress is a much nicer place to recline than the rear bench, even after the latter is folded flat. There’s a pair of USB charging ports to make sure you can top up your Apple Watch or iPhone while you sleep, and you won’t need to lie awake worried that the van won’t start; the van packs a second battery for camping use.

If more than two people are going camping, however, you’ll need to take advantage of the expanding lower bunk, which cuts into the usable space below. Creative minds can still find ways to store things like backpacks and other small items, but if you’re planning on taking a ton of gear along, you may be restricted to room for two.

It’s not for your dream life, but it is good for real life

While Mercedes-Benz markets this van as the Getaway, it originally dubbed it the “Weekender.” It’s a shame they changed it, because that name seems ideal for this Metris’s mission. Dreamy as the idea of escaping the rat race forever and living out of a #vanlife fantasy sounds, it’s likely beyond the reach of most of us (especially those of us with the finances to drop $60,000 or more on a new vehicle). Anyone seeking a van they can live out of for days on end would be better suited with something like Ready.Set.Van’s camper builds, or even a Class C motorhome; the Getaway’s lack of features like a real kitchenette or toilet mean you’d be sacrificing an awful lot for that freedom.

It does seem like an excellent weekend vehicle, however — one for chasing after whatever outdoorsy goals or hobbies you love. (You certainly could use it as your primary ride, but again, that would mean you’re spending enough to buy a nice luxury car on what amounts to a Super Shuttle.)

Maybe you do a lot of surfing, and want something you can sleep in by the beach so you can make the first waves. Maybe you love rock climbing, mountain biking or hiking, but don’t want to waste valuable hours driving to and from the trails. Hell, maybe you just really love visiting breweries and would rather sleep in the parking lot than call a cab. Whatever your preferred passion, if it involves being farther from home than you’d rather drive, the Getaway is a pretty damn good buddy.

2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris Getaway

Base Price: $61,564

Powertrain: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four; seven-speed automatic; rear-wheel-drive

Horsepower: 208

Torque: 258 lb-ft

EPA Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city, 23 mpg highway

Seats: Five

Sleeps: Four

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The Best Rooftop Tents You Can Buy

If you’ve always enjoyed the top bunk, you should invest in a rooftop car tent.

LEARN MORE

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Take a Sneak Peek at the Best Upcoming Gear of Winter 2022

Given the length of this list, we’ll keep the pleasantries short. But let’s be clear that the 20 pieces of winter 2021/2022 gear we’re lifting the curtain on here represent a fraction of what’s coming. Outdoor gear makers have a lot more in store for whatever sort of cold next year’s season brings, and this is the highlight reel.

To preview the preview, we’re talking everything from ski gear that goes from the lift to the backcountry without missing a turn to running duds that will make it not just easy to head out for a jog in the cold, but enjoyable too. A lot inhabits the space in between: new down garments, gloves, hiking boots, helmets, goggles and so much more. Without further ado…

La Sportiva Vanguard Ski Boot

la sportiva vanguard ski boot

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The blurring of the lines between downhill and backcountry boots is getting more obscure, and that’s a good thing. The Vanguard makes no compromises: it has an aggressive 130 flex but is touring-ready, primarily due to a “double-flex” tongue. It also has a unique “scissor opening” that’s purportedly very easy to get in and out of, and it’s made of castor oil-based plastic, which is more eco-friendly than petroleum-based stuff.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $899

Tecnica Magma Mid GTX

tecnica magma mid gtx

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Tecnica’s hike-run hybrid, the Magma, only recently arrived, and the brand is already showing its confidence by hyping a taller version of the shoe. Along with additional support comes the Magma’s unique features: a lightweight, wraparound outsole inspired by mountain bike tires, a heat-moldable fit and Gore-Tex waterproofing.

Release Date: September 2021

Price: $210

Picture Folder Xpore Jacket

brand picture folder xpore jacket

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If we told you that 53 percent of the fabric that makes up Picture’s forthcoming three-layer shell is sugarcane waste, would you believe us? It really doesn’t matter, because the Folder’s Xpore membrane has a 25k/20k waterproof-breathability rating, which is about as good as a jacket can get (the membrane is also solvent- and PFC-free). So whether you care about sustainability or not, this is one of the most functional jackets coming next winter.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $550

Dynafit Radical Pro Boot

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In aiming to please a broad crowd, the Radical Pro goes for the pickiest members. Namely, skiers who rarely ride chairlifts and care about every gram on their feet. This boot weighs 1380 grams (just over three pounds) but still comes with a stiff 120 flex and is compatible with most bindings thanks to its toe welt. It also features Dynafit’s Hoji lock system, which loosens the entire boot and puts it into walk mode with the flip of a single lever.

Release Date: limited release February 2021, wide release Fall 2021

Price: $800

Sweet Protection Grimnir 2Vi MIPS

sweet protection grimnir 2vi mips

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The core upgrade to one of Sweet Protection’s flagship helmets is 2Vi, a safety tech platform that makes the helmet more protective and lighter at the same time. A big part of that is a neatly integrated MIPS lining, which guards against multi-directional impacts. Another is its carbon fiber shell with penetration-proof vents, and yet another is a shock-absorbing shell.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $400

Rover IC 25

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Rover’s off-road-capable cooler is like a mobile pantry, but not every outing needs that much storage space. That’s why it’s exciting to see the company roll out a smaller hard-sided icebox that you can carry over your shoulder. Like its predecessor, it still keeps its cool for days on end and has attachment points for accessories like a cutting board or bottle opener.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $199

Salewa Ortles Couloir Boot

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Mountaineering boots have to be hefty, but Salewa slimmed down the Ortles Couloir as much as it could. The boot weighs 725 grams (about 26 ounces), thanks to a 30 percent lighter outsole and a pivoting carbon fiber exoskeleton. If you think this alpine boot’s design is impressive, you aren’t alone — it just won a prestigious ISPO Gold Award.

Release Date: September 2021

Price: $1,000

Rab Generator Alpine Jacket

rab generator alpine jacket

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Rab’s puffed-up insulator has two cool things going for it. One is a hearty helping of PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core, which is one of those technologies first made for NASA that’s made its way into outdoor gear. The other is its Pertex Diamond Fuse shell fabric, the threads of which are diamond-shaped (versus round), so they fit closely together to make a material that’s more durable and more water-resistant.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $200

Jones Outerwear

rab generator alpine jacket

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The snowboard brand founded by legendary big-mountain rider Jeremy Jones is expanding into clothing. The Jones outerwear line will consist of three categories: Shralpinist for those who climb peaks as well as slide down them, Uphill for backcountry touring, and Mountain Surf for more general, everyday riding. Sky-high waterproof and breathability ratings and sustainable materials abound.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Black Diamond Mission Wool Denim Pants

black diamond mission wool denim pants

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To give denim an extra edge in the cold, Black Diamond is blending it with wool. Its new fabric is 16 percent wool, to be exact, and has enough stretch for rock climbing, so chances are these jeans will be perfect for cruising around town on a bike and scoping out the apres scene too.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $150

Atomic Maverick

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To make a new all-mountain ski, Atomic focused on what would work best in the various ranges of North America. It worked with ski instructors, athletes and its ambassadors to crowdsource feedback but also tapped skiers who might only get to the mountain a handful of days in a year. The goal is a lofty one — to make one ski that works for all skiers in all conditions — but the Maverick’s balancing of stability and flex, camber and rocker, and float and grip portends success.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $600+

Dalbello Quantum Free Asolo Factory 130

dalbello quantum free asolo factory 130

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Dalbello turned heads at the start of this season by introducing its first-ever touring boot, the Quantum. The boot doesn’t appear to be at any risk of experiencing a sophomore slump either, thanks to updates like a buckle power strap on the 130 model, which increases power and control on the downhill side of a tour.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $950

Nordica Speedmachine 3

nordica speedmachine 3

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Despite all the emphasis on boots for walking uphill, companies are still working on those just meant to go down. Like Nordica, which is updating its Speedmachine to max out comfort and performance, two traits that are often mutually exclusive when it comes to ski boots. The Speedmachine 3 comes with a new liner and a shell that includes a unique honeycomb plastic insert that provides rigidity without getting heavy. Thanks to these design elements, the new boot recently took home a prestigious gear design award.

Release Date: limited quantities now, wide release Fall 2021

Price: $700-$850

Volkl M6 Mantra

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The all-mountain Mantra has been a mainstay in Volkl’s line and on ski racks outside the lodge since 2005. Periodic updates have been incremental, but the forthcoming M6 introduces more extensive changes, like tips inlaid with directional strands of carbon fiber and metal layers that vary depending on ski length. The M6 also has a 3D Radius Sidecut, with tighter radii at the center of the ski and longer radii at the tip and tail. Translation: the Mantra is happy to make both short, tight turns and long, arcing ones, depending on your mood.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $825

Fjällräven Tree-Kånken

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The Kånken is more common in cities than in nature, but Fjällräven’s new one has implications for the latter. Its fabric is called Pine Weave, and it’s made from wood cellulose that the company is sourcing from locally controlled cultivated stands (so, not from wild forests). By making fabric this way, Fjällräven hopes to create a framework of transparency and sustainability in forestry.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $115

Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX

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Danner continues to iterate on its successful Trail 2650 hiking shoe, which manages to inject contemporary style into a trail-capable form. Danner made the original Campo (out now) for warm weather hiking, and next fall, it’s adding a key feature: waterproofing. The Campo GTX features Gore-Tex’s Invisible Fit membrane, which protects against the wet while maintaining a high degree of breathability.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $190

Airblaster Sasquatch Suit

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Onesies may be retro, but the materials they’re made of don’t have to be. As proof, behold Airblaster’s forthcoming Sasquatch Suit, a one-piece outerwear kit made with two-layer Schoeller nylon ripstop that’s reinforced in high-wear areas and bolstered by a highly breathable waterproof membrane. It includes armpit and leg vents, lots of pockets and tactically placed zippers for efficient bathroom breaks.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $650

The North Face Flight Vectiv Guard Futurelight

the north face flight vectiv guard futurelight

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The North Face only just revealed Vectiv, its new footwear tech platform that consists of a 3D plate, rockered sole and grippy tread — read our full Vectiv review here — and it’s already signaling that more good things are on the way. Like the Flight Vectiv Guard Futurelight, a winter trail running shoe as impressive as its name is wordy. Equipped with a carbon fiber plate, five-millimeter lugs and a built-in gaiter, this shoe is for committed runners hell-bent on logging miles no matter the conditions.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $250

The North Face Steep IL Solo Pro Futurelight Glove

the north face steep il solo pro futurelight glove

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Another highlight from The North Face’s sweeping 21/22 line is a revamped collection of gloves and mittens. The brand worked hand-in-mitt with its athlete team to design and test new models capable of keeping warm and taking a beating. One standout is the IL Solo Pro, which is versatile enough for both backcountry and resort days with its goat and sheep leather shell and double-layer insulation. Empty, the glove’s shape is slightly curved, just like your hand at rest, which notches up the comfort factor in a subtle yet welcome way.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $130

Patagonia UltraAlpine Down Crew

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Patagonia’s upcoming Downlab collection marries high-warmth down with minimal designs to create ultralight pieces for layering in cold conditions. An excellent example of what that looks like is the UltraAlpine Down Crew, which, due to its zipper-free design, 800-fill goose down and 7-denier recycled shell, is the lightest insulating layer in the company’s collection at 6.1 ounces.

Release Date: Fall 2021

Price: $199

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You’ll Never Guess the Origin of This Unique Watch Design

Watches should be accurate and legible. These principles underpin the most successful and familiar watch designs in history, but a purer expression exists in a type of watch known as a regulator. Today, regulator watches are uncommon but offer a unique alternative to standard time-telling that’s simultaneously highly functional and rooted in horological history.

Before the availability of hyper-accurate timekeeping, watchmakers set and tested their watches against a regulator clock. Workshops would have a regulator positioned where all the watchmakers could easily reference it from their desks, and these were some of the most accurate clocks of their time — as specialized watchmaker tools, they even look a bit special compared to traditional clocks.

Regulator clocks (and watches) are immediately identifiable by their unique layout: One large hand in the center indicates the minutes, while the hours and seconds are measured on smaller subdials of their own. Separating the displays makes for quick and precise reading, and emphasizing the minutes was particularly important for watchmakers regulating their watches and clocks.

This design has been reinterpreted on modern wristwatches, and although uncommon, they remain easy to use and represent a link to the history of horology. They also offer a look and experience that stands apart from that of standard dial layouts without feeling eccentric. Below are some notable modern examples.

Xeric Regulator Automatic Silver Bullet

xeric regulator automatic silver bullet watch

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As a brand focused on retro-themed designs and alternative concepts, it’s no surprise that Xeric would have its own interpretation of the regulator watch. It has the separated displays of a traditional regulator, but is characteristic for the brand’s typically funky design style and also its affordable price point.

Diameter: 42mm
Movement: Miyota 82S7 automatic
Price: $499
Manufacturer info: xeric.com

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Hamilton Jazzmaster Regulator Auto

hamilton jazzmaster regulator auto

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Hamilton is great at offering classic styles with its own American-informed personality and reasonable pricing. Designed with generally traditional styling, the Regulator Auto doesn’t look too conservative with its separated time displays featuring the hour and seconds hands positioned asymmetrically.

Diameter: 42mm
Movement: ETA 2825-2
Price: $1,275
Manufacturer info: hamiltonwatch.com

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Louis Erard Excellence Régulateur

louis erard excellence regulateur watch

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Louis Erard is one of very few brands that has made the regulator a central part of its identity. One of the most striking watches in recent memory was the brand’s collaboration with designer Alain Silberstein on an exceptionally compelling and colorful regulator-style watch (now sold out), but the brand’s wider collection and other collabs are some of the most interesting out there.

Diameter:
Movement:
Price: ~$2,500
Manufacturer info: louiserard.com

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Chronoswiss Regulator Classic

chronoswiss regulator classic watch

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Chronoswiss is credited with pioneering the regulator as a wristwatch, starting back in 1988. Today, the majority of their collections remain focused on the concept, and most of them lean toward technical, modern, bold and sporty styling. The Classic is a conservative exception to its many colorful and skeletonized models, but it remains representative of Chronoswiss as one of the few watchmakers that has built a brand around the regulator concept.

Diameter: 37mm
Movement: Chronoswiss C. 295 automatic
Price: $4,700
Manufacturer info: chronoswiss.com

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Sinn 6100 Classic B

sinn 6100 classic b watch

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A elegantly styled regulator seems unusual for Sinn, best known for its tough tool watches — but the German watchmaker can also offer a striking take on traditional designs. The simply named 6100 Classic B uses a modified pocket watch movement fitted into a 44mm case.

Diameter: 44mm
Movement: Unitas 6498 (base) manual
Price: ~$3,000
Manufacturer info: sinn.de

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Glashütte Original Senator Regulator

glashutte original senator regulator watcg

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Anything you get from Glashütte Original is going to offer high-end watchmaking with a refined in-house movement, and a G.O. regulator is no exception. In addition to the separate displays of the hours, minutes and seconds, the brand offers a power reserve display as well as its signature “big date” complication.

Diameter: 42mm
Movement: Glashütte Original 58-04 manual
Price: $26,600
Manufacturer info: glashuette-original.com

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Patek Philippe 5235

patek philippe 5235 watch

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At first glance, the Patek Philippe 5235 looks somewhat like a traditional regulator watch, but the brand simply doesn’t make typical anything. In addition to its industry-topping level of refinement and finishing (the movement is visible through a case back window), annual calendar complications have been tastefully integrated with the day, date and month in subtle apertures.

Diameter: 40.5mm
Movement: Patek Philippe 31‑260 REG QA automatic
Price: $55,590
Manufacturer info: patek.com

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Keep it Moving with Mission Workshop’s Drift Tote

Constructed of tough, American-made 10-oz. waxed canvas, the 28-liter Drift Tote from San Fran’s Mission Workshop is an abuse-proof carryall that performs as a laptop bag, grocery-getter, duffel or mobile office, all while delivering weatherproof protection for your daily essentials. Features a 16-inch padded laptop sleeve, built-in handle straps, an adjustable, removable shoulder strap, and a luggage handle pass-through. Pockets & internal organizers for everything.

Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Trophy Edition

When it comes to old school trucks and vintage SUVs, you’d be hard-pressed to find better than a classic Land Rover. The Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Trophy Edition combines everything you love about old…

The post Land Rover Classic Defender Works V8 Trophy Edition first appeared on Cool Material.

Vanderhall Navarro Electric 4×4

Despite the fact most of us cling to the idea that all cars need to have four wheels, liveries like Vanderhall continue to impress us with their three-wheeled options like the Venice and Carmel. Now,…

The post Vanderhall Navarro Electric 4×4 first appeared on Cool Material.

McLaren unveils the Artura as its first series-product hybrid supercar

Most luxury or high-performance automotive brands might be a bit more hesitant to go fully electric. The rest, on the other hand, could be testing the waters before they take the next big step. Thankfully, hybrid powertrains allow them to make the compromise with little to no consequence. After the favorable reception of its highly exclusive hypercar – the P1 – McLaren is ready for mass production with the Artura.

Don’t let the sleek and stylish presentation fool you, because underneath it all is a hybrid system. Although its capabilities cannot hope to match the P1, they are impressive, nonetheless. McLaren endows the Artura with 3.0-liter twin-turbo v6 engine as well as an “E-Motor” for good measure.

The former generates 577 horsepower with 431 lb-ft of torque, while the latter is good for an additional 94 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Combined, the Artura boasts a total of 671 horsepower with 531 lb-ft of torque. McLaren then pairs it with an 8-speed transmission.

Surprisingly enough, it appears a reverse gear is not part of this setup. Instead, the Artura can tap into the E-Motor and have it spin backwards to compensate or the missing component. That’s right, McLaren wants to remind you that you are driving a hybrid.

Furthermore, if you switch the supercar to pure electric mode, it can run up to 19 miles on battery power alone. Recharging the five-module lithium-ion energy-dense unit can be done by regenerative braking or through the plug-in port.

The Artura is also the first among the carmaker’s lineup to use the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). This aluminum and carbon fiber combo keeps the weight in check for exceptional handling and performance.

Buy – $225,000

Images courtesy of McLaren Automotive

What You Need to Own if You Live in Hurricane Country

No one wants to face the full force of a hurricane, but if you live in an area where hurricanes are prone to occur, you need to be prepared. One of the best ways of preparing is to stock up on specific items before a hurricane is even forecast. Here’s what you need to own if you live in hurricane country.

An Emergency Food and Drink Kit

If you find yourself cut off from the world due to a hurricane, it’s imperative you have emergency food and water supplies. Thankfully, there are some great emergency food and drink preparedness kits, like My Patriot Supply, that last for years.

So, you can simply stock up and not have to worry about the shelf-life of products. In fact, the contents of My Patriot Supply kits last for twenty-five years, which is one of the longest shelf-lives in the emergency food industry. From pancakes to black bean burgers, the foods are not only nutritious but also pack flavor.

No matter how long you are stuck inside your home, you can be sure you’ll have a tasty meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The My Patriot Supply kit even comes with coffee that can last 25 years or more on the shelf. Gluten-free and special dietary options are also available.

Storm Shutters

By installing storm shutters, you can protect your windows, skylights, and doors from the rampant force of hurricanes. Shutters specifically designed for withstanding hurricanes are usually made from sturdy materials like aluminum or steel.

They typically range in price anywhere between $200 and $1,000, but if you live in hurricane country, storm shutters are more than worth the investment. Do not wait for a hurricane forecast before you buy storm shutters, though. It takes a little time to install the shutters, so you should get them before any hurricanes or storms are on the horizon.

Sandbags

When hurricanes hit, you can expect severe flooding to often accompany the winds. Therefore, it’s important you own plenty of sandbags to stop water damage affecting your home. You could make sandbags yourself by filling plastic bags with sand, or you could purchase sandbags from your local hardware store.

Whichever method you choose, make sure you do not wait to get sandbags until a hurricane or storm comes. Be ready with sandbags and you can prevent flood damage by diverting water away from your home.

Gasoline

If you have a generator to produce electricity in the event of a power outage, you need to remember to have plenty of gasoline stocked up. Typically, a 5,500-watt generator runs for about eight hours on five gallons of gasoline. You can also make your generator last longer by running it for shorter periods of time. As long as you’re prepared, you can have heat while you ride out the disaster of a hurricane.

A Safety Deposit Box or Safe

When a hurricane hits, it can cause all kinds of damage to your personal belongings. So, it’s important you stay ahead of the game by purchasing a safety deposit box or installing a safe to keep all of your important documents and items safe. When things like insurance policies, birth certificates, financial papers, and jewelry are under lock and key, you will not have to worry about them becoming lost or damaged when a hurricane arrives.

Other Items

If you are out of power, even for a short time, it’s important you have flashlights and plenty of batteries. It can be worth investing in a glow-in-the-dark flashlight so you can easily locate it when the lights go out. Other items to own if you live in hurricane country include whistles, blankets, and toiletries.

Boozy Canned Cocktails to Beat Winter Blues and 6 More Home and Design Releases

Welcome to Window Shopping, a weekly exercise in lusting over home products we want in our homes right the hell now. This week: a very limited run of Eames Lounge Chairs, the best olive oil you’ll ever buy and more.

Vervet Canned Cocktails


The advent of canned cocktails has made it easier to get bar-worthy cocktails at home without having to own a full-on bar. And with the latest brand of canned cocktails, Vervet, co-founder (and former bartender) Hope Ewing is bringing bartender-made cocktails into homes across America. Each cocktail in Vervet’s lineup — Angelicano, Pale Mary, Sundowner and Tiki Tea — is made entirely of Vervet-made products from the bitters and vermouth to the interesting stuff like oolong tea and tomato water. When coming up with the canned cocktails, Ewing based the recipes on a 10-ounce highball made of two ounces of 80-proof alcohol. She found the higher ABV helped to give the drinks more of a cook, and they just tasted better. Vervet ships nationwide to 41 states (sorry Alabama, Arkansas, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah and Vermont), and they’ll be sure to kick the current winter blues aside.

Price: $22/four-pack

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Reed Art Department x Parc Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman

Reed Art Department, a creative studio founded by streetwear legend Jeff Staple, partnered with Parc, a furniture company, to rework three Eames Lounge Chairs and Ottomans in a gradient colorway. The black-to-white gradient is meant to pay homage to New York City, from the asphalt to the way the the buildings and concrete play off each other on a foggy day. Can’t drop ten grand on a chair? There’s a tee to accompany the limited-edition chairs that might be more wallet friendly at $60. The longe-sleeve shirt makes reference to a 1953 short film produced by the Eamses for Georgia’s Department of Arts.

Price: $10,000

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Garrison Bros Whiskey x McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams Pecan & Pralines


Last week we covered WhistlePig’s new ice cream made with Ben & Jerry’s, and now there’s another whiskey-based ice cream out. Garrison Bros lent its Texas Straight Bourbon to McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams for its new Pecan & Pralines flavor. The whiskey is mixed into the ice cream, which is topped with salt-roasted and caramel-coated pecans. You can order the pints online, but if you’re on the west coast, pints will be available for sale at McConnell’s scoop shops.

Price: $12

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Brightland Rosette Olive Oil


The olive oil inside a bottle of Brightland is just as good as its packaging, and people are catching on to high-end olive oil. Its newest offering is Rosette, which combines two things that always pair well together: garlic and olive oil. Brightland offers some food pairings that go well with Rosette, and it seems like it just goes with everything. The olives are picked from a family-owned farm in California, and the bottle was designed by Lilian Martinez, marking the first time the brand has worked with a woman of color artist.

Price: $40

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The Alphabet of Art at Warby Parker

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Every direct-to-consumer brands seems to be the Warby Parker of their category. Well there’s only one actual Warby Parker, and it’s a Gear Patrol favorite for its affordable prescription eyewear available in a wide variety of colors and styles. Over its 11-year run, Warby Parker has collaborated with over 100 artists for graphics on its buildings and products, and to commemorate its 11th anniversary, the eyewear brand released “The Alphabet of Art at Warby Parker.” The book highlights all of the artists the brand has worked with, and it’s currently available in all locations across the US and Canada.

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Vivid Coffee Treatment Action Group Blend

vivid coffee treatment action group blend

Vivid Coffee

Vermont-based Vivid Coffee opened its first brick and mortar store in December, and our very own Vermonter Tanner Bowden can attest to the quality and taste of the coffee. While you’ll find standard blends and single origins, its Treatment Action Group blend might catch some eyes — what kind of blend name is that? Treatment Action Group, or TAG, is actually a think think that advocates for better treatment and prevention for HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis C virus, as well as vaccines and cures. For every bag of TAG blend coffee sold, $5 will go towards TAG to support its initiative.

Price: $11

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The Citizenry Cocoon Capsule Pillows


When your boring old couch just isn’t earning you any interior design cred, the least you can do is add a few throw pillows. The Citizenry, a home goods store that sources its products from artisans around the world, recently started carrying Weavers Of San Pedro’s assortment of handmade pillows made in Peru. Each is blended of highland and alpaca wool, which give the pillows a texture that looks and feels great. The pillows feature muted colors in understated designs that can elevate even the most schlubby sofa, whether they’re on their own or mixed and matched with other designs.

Price: $165+

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Tyler Chin is Gear Patrol’s Associate Staff Writer.

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