The 2015 VCH Holiday Gift Guide

We received a request to do this, so even though it’s late in the season, we’re on board. Here’s a short list of five things we’d love to have or already do—all guaranteed to please the vintage-cool-obsessed guy on your list. If you’re one of those guys and you’re reading this, feel free to pass on to the gift givers in your life.

Let’s start with three stone cold deals—two great albums and a book.

Kind of Blue by Miles Davis —$25

One of the great albums of the 1950s, and one of the great jazz albums of all time—this one is a no-brainer. Even those who aren’t hardcore jazz fans will find it accessible and yes, mesmerizing. This is a great gateway album for those new to jazz. We especially like the heavy duty 180 gram vinyl version of this classic. (Find it here)

Christmas with The Rat Pack—$30

Another great album. This compilation of Pack Christmas songs from Frank, Dean, and Sammy really swings, baby. So many Rat Pack albums are cobbled together and underwhelming. Not this one. It actually features some rare tracks that are hard to find elsewhere like “I Believe” and "Peace on Earth / Silent Night.” Our only gripe is it isn’t yet available on vinyl. (Find it Here)

Take Ivy by Shosuke Ishizu—$15

After Michael Williams of A Continuous Lean scanned photos from his 1965 edition and posted them on ACL, hard to find original copies of this book were selling on eBay for upwards of $500. It’s an amazing time capsule of mid-sixties Ivy League preppy style; modern style-curious folks will appreciate the authentic look at Ivy life and style from the pre-bell bottoms era. It’s a ridiculous steal now that you can get a copy for around 15 bucks on Amazon. (Find it here)

Vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Clock—$500 to $1500

One of the all-time great designs, up there with the Eames Lounge Chair and the Graves Tea Kettle. Looks killer on your desk, and has graced the mantles and desks of the rich, famous, and rest of us for over half a century. A timeless design from one of the great Swiss watch manufactures, what’s not to like? (Find it here)

Sterling Silver Hip Flask—$1500

Sterling silver has long been the preferred metal for a top quality flask. Pewter can taint your precious whisky, and stainless steel is okay…if a bit lacking in the vintage verve department. That’s why these are perhaps best acquired as vintage pieces—we love the Great War sterling silver examples you see on eBay that have killer presentation inscriptions like, “To Major Nigel B. Dillingham, from the Officer’s Mess of the King’s Own 21st Reg’t, East African Light Horse— December 25, 1916.” If you can’t find one of those to your liking, the brand new made in England example from Sir Jack’s is awfully nice. (Find it here)