Charlie's Conception of Britishness

Having developed a unique sensibility through his travels around the world, Chalie Vice has strong opinions on culture and the selection of goods. Yoshiyasu Takubo, who is a good friend and understands Charlie's tastes, is one such person.

Among the items exhibited at the aforementioned event were pieces from “Globe-Trotter” and shirts from “Turnbull & Asser,” both of which Charlie himself reportedly uses. In an era where the term “British gentleman” can often be taken at face value, we asked Takubo about the British things and experiences that Charlie favors.

Obscurity Itself is the Charm of British Goods

—When did you last see Charlie?

Just three days ago. We met again at the world premiere of the new James Bond film, Spectre, held in London. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, were also on the red carpet, and we commented on how small their faces were.

—What do you consider to be British goods, according to Charlie?

People tend to have a stereotype of the British gentleman. However, if you actually walk around London, you won't see many people dressed in suits with walking sticks. It's like a foreigner visiting Japan and expecting to see samurai everywhere. In reality, things are more modernized, and the criteria for selecting goods have evolved. What Charlie pays most attention to is not owning things that scream their price. He seems to favor handmade items with a history.

—What were Charlie's thoughts after watching Spectre with you?

He said, “As expected, the world of James Bond is all about its universe.” You can't enjoy ‘007’ unless you understand the adult humor behind why Bond possesses certain things, whether it's his drinks or gadgets. While the core actions haven't changed since Sean Connery's era, the details are meticulously updated, which is how that world is maintained even today.

This “Globe-Trotter” Skyfall case is a prime example. Released in a limited edition of 100 worldwide to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the James Bond films, its handle is designed like a scope, and the material is not Vulcan fiber. It's made from aluminum that closely resembles Vulcan fiber. This subtle, hard-to-discern attention to detail can also be considered quintessentially British.

—Please tell us about the characteristics of a modern British gentleman.

I believe it's someone who can be particular about how they want to be, rather than how they are perceived. It's about choosing things that make you feel comfortable, rather than worrying about others' opinions. To do that, you need to have your own set of values. It doesn't need to be obvious; in fact, being less obvious might be more British.

This is similar to how the brand “Hackett London” approaches its clothing, considering how to be understated while reinterpreting Britishness. The coexistence of brands like the established “Turnbull & Asser” and others like “Hackett London” is what makes contemporary British manufacturing so interesting, I feel.

—What does Britain represent to you, Takubo-san?

Perhaps it's like the air I breathe now. My shop, “VULCANIZE London,” is neither a select shop nor a single-brand store. However, the brands we carry are exclusively authentic items with a luxurious aura. By mixing and matching these brands, I believe we create a certain British atmosphere. If I can feel it, I'm sure others will too. And one of those people is Chalie Vice (laughs).

CHALIE VICE
His age, occupation, and place of origin are unknown, but he is a passionate traveler who has been inspired by cultures and customs worldwide, honing his sensibility. He is a “connoisseur of play” with expertise in diverse fields such as music, photography, and cuisine. Recently, he has been focusing on selecting British goods and appreciating the tastes of British gentlemen. At “THE GALLERY by CHALIE VICE” on the 8th floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building, he shares items and experiences from his global travels that enrich life.
http://chalievice.com/