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May 18, 2015
Feature | Editor's Pick Up! OPENERS Editors' Personal Wish List
Editors Pick Up
OPENERS Editors' Personal Wish Lists (1)
What items would editors recommend as gifts, having been the first to catch wind of new arrivals and limited editions from brands, and having had the opportunity to encounter many exceptional and exquisite items that are rarely seen? Here, we reveal the items that each OPENERS editor, with their own unique tastes and preferences, has chosen as something they "personally want!" From obscure gems to the latest trendsetting items, we present the wish lists of eight individuals with diverse ages and personalities. Please enjoy this as an idea for your gift selection!
OPENERS Editors
List 01: Luxury Fashion
It's reversible!
When I interviewed Creative Director Stuart Vevers, he introduced me to their leatherwear, and I was astonished by its quality. I really want the one on the left in the photo! The color appears greenish because it was shot with a Lomo, but it's black. And this, it's reversible! The inside is nylon and also very stylish! The leather itself is incredible. They use only the finest parts, just 5% of the hide from a single lamb, meticulously stitched together from multiple hides to create this exquisite leather garment! (Kotaro Hosomura)
A watch that brings the courage of aviators
I've always admired aviators. The "aviators" of a time when it was still an adventurous profession, as depicted by the French writer and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in "Night Flight." Although the story was difficult for me as an elementary school student then, I learned about a watch connected to him after becoming an adult. It's Breguet. He also favored the aircraft manufactured by the company, which was also an aircraft manufacturer. In 2011, a year of great societal upheaval, I want to wear a Breguet and summon the courage of those aviators of yesteryear. (Koichi Yamaguchi)
Turn the cylinder and...
Dunhill's products are always unique. This pen is no exception. Inspired by a revolver, the cylinder-like groove on the barrel appears when you pull the cap! The groove is marked with solid black, red, and hollow circles. By rotating the cap to select, the pen tip emerges. The body design is inspired by the Crystal Palace, a former iron and glass structure in London. It's too beautiful. The substantial feel in hand also evokes a pistol, which is quite pleasing. (Tomoshige Kase)
Want one in every color!? Hermès Carré
Of course, you can wear it around your neck, but you can also tie it loosely in your hair, or around your wrist or bag... The Hermès Carré scarf can be enjoyed in so many ways. The special version introduced here is exclusively available at the limited-time "Hermès 'Paris mon ami' Christmas Boutique" open until December 25th at Tokyo Midtown, and on Hermes.com. It seems like it would be a great accent to any outfit! (Akiko Nakamura)
Seeking "light of hope" in Kobe, and to a new store
On December 3rd, "CHROME HEARTS KOBE" opened as the second store in the Kansai region, following Osaka, at "BLOCK 30," the former site of Daimaru Department Store. The photo shows an opening commemorative necklace that can also be worn as a bracelet by wrapping it around. This year's Luminarie, which ended on the 12th, had the theme "Luci di speranza (Light of Hope)." I want to travel to a beautifully recovered Kobe, seeking that bright light, wearing this. (Makoto Kajii)
A dream of diamonds hidden in rose thorns
Dior Fine Jewelry's "Bois de Rose" collection, designed by Victoire de Castellane, features rose thorns as motifs. The sparkle of diamonds casts a special magic on women. However, many designs are conservative or overly feminine, which can be intimidating with their excessively romantic presence. This design is understated and simple, possessing a moderate edge without being overly assertive. Recommended for women who are neither strictly conservative nor purely feminine. (Mayu Fujita)
A masterpiece loved by dandies and royalty for ages
Shaving cream and brush from "Truefitt & Hill," said to be the world's oldest barbershop. True wet shaving might seem difficult, but with a little practice, you can easily create a rich lather. The scent, starting with bergamot and subtly lingering with sandalwood and musk, is the epitome of classic men's fragrance. The satisfaction derived from "authenticity" that has remained unchanged since the 19th century is immeasurable. (Fumihiko Suzuki)
A long-cherished brand
Costume National, which has been creating authentic, high-quality clothing reminiscent of traditional Italian tailoring, opened "CoSTUME NATIONAL Aoyama Complex (CNAC)" in September, a cultural space blending art, design, and architecture, garnering much attention. This brand has been a long-cherished aspiration. This 100% cashmere beanie also features a subtly attached silver plate, embodying Costume National's characteristic simplicity. (Shu Sugiura)
Its low operability is the key
They say Keith Richards and Mick Jagger met by chance on the same train car, coincidentally holding the same LP. Nowadays, when most people carry portable music players, such encounters are unlikely. I usually prefer to choose where and when I listen to music, but with this case, I might consider listening outdoors occasionally. For me, who wants to listen to an album in its entirety without changing the track order, its low operability is actually appealing. (Yusuke Osmi)
Editors Pick Up
OPENERS Editors' Personal Wish Lists (2)
List 02: Casual Fashion
A wallet that makes you want to pay
It might be stating the obvious, but the inside is flashy. Launer is a leather goods manufacturer founded in 1941. They are meticulously handcrafted at their factory in Walsall, near Birmingham, and have received a Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth II, attesting to their exceptional quality. While the exterior is simple black leather, opening it reveals a colorful...—"Oh, how cute!" – aren't you expecting to hear that? Be careful not to overspend just to show it off! (Tomoshige Kase)
Colorful & Big Costume Jewelry
Looking at the Spring/Summer 2012 fashion, I'm drawn to colorful items that exude a sense of relaxation, and my accessories are definitely in that mood! I also want to wear bold, oversized pieces in a '50s style. Erickson Beamon, a costume jewelry brand, also offers these colorful pieces. I want one. Won't someone give me one? (lol) (Akiko Nakamura)
Supporters should always be stylish
On the second floor of "BEAMS F," I found soccer ball motif cufflinks from "RT by TATEOSSIAN," the second line of the renowned cufflinks brand "TATEOSSIAN." Robert Tateossian's accessories are sold in 35 countries worldwide, and these are truly the World Cup of cufflinks! The colors, which immediately indicate "that country" for soccer fans, are also excellent. As a Jubilo Iwata supporter, please gift me the white and sky blue ones without hesitation. (Makoto Kajii)
A timeless basic!
In the movie "Sawada Kenji's Sex Laugh," released in 2008, which I recently watched on DVD, the lead actor Kenichi Matsuyama wore a duffle coat. Admiring its relaxed vibe, I was searching for a duffle coat when I discovered this Scye coat. With its long length that fully covers the waist, a muted blue check, and a unique sense of "relaxation," it was exactly what I was looking for. For timeless basics that transcend trends, I want to choose designs that prioritize material and craftsmanship. (Mayu Fujita)
Tough, simple, and comfortable
Waterproof side-gore boots made with tumbled leather and oiled nubuck. "Dansko," meaning "Danish shoe," was founded in 1990 in Pennsylvania, USA, after extensive research based on comfortable Danish clogs. Loved in professions requiring long hours of standing, such as restaurants and healthcare, the shoes produced by this brand are tough and have a simple design. They can be worn anywhere and are so comfortable you'll want to keep walking. (Fumihiko Suzuki)
A new standard for French casual
Maison Kitsuné tote bag. Founded in Paris in 2001, this brand is more of a cultural collective than a fashion brand. The designer, Masaya, is Japanese and has lived in France since he was 12, so French culture strongly influences its designs. In recent menswear, while hinting at American traditional elements, it exudes a uniquely French charm and uses elegant materials. This tote bag is full of such appeal. (Shu Sugiura)
Inspired by "Wandering Man"
For the Spring/Summer 2009 season, the theme was "Wandering Man." That theme alone captivated me, and I've been checking them out ever since. Honestly, I'd love to collect all their items, but since it's a gift, I chose what seems like a classic scarf. With its cashmere blend, I have high expectations for its texture. Whether it's a flannel shirt or a bag, I'd happily accept anything they give me (lol). I just love nonnative's unique "laid-back" worldview that much. (Yusuke Osmi)
Editors Pick Up
OPENERS Editors' Personal Wish Lists (3)
List 03: Products
A rejuvenating agent like a hurricane
Lately, I have a problem. I've noticed my desire for material possessions has waned. As an editor, my job is to keep an antenna tuned to people, things, and events in the world, armed with strong curiosity and boundless desire for possessions, and to convey that to readers. Perhaps due to aging, the decline in my desire for possessions is not an exaggeration to call a crisis in my profession. The Ferrari 458 Italia blew away these restless feelings like a hurricane. While its rejuvenating effect is outstanding, the price is 28.3 million yen! As the year-end approaches, I lament my inability to afford it, no matter how hard I try... (Koichi Yamaguchi)
Surprisingly rare camouflage pattern
My rain gear from THE NORTH FACE, which I've used for over 10 years, is finally reaching its limit. Each time the crotch ripped while mushroom hunting or a hole appeared from a campfire, I've patched it with repair tape to somehow manage... If I'm buying new, it has to be North Face! So, my eyes landed on this. When looking at outer shells, outdoor brands generally offer camouflage patterns, but when searching for rainwear, it's surprisingly... actually, there are almost none. The price is also quite reasonable, which is a plus. (Tomoshige Kase)
A glamorous fountain pen reminiscent of Greta Garbo
Although I work in web media and am immersed in IT every day, I enjoy writing letters. Perhaps it's the ritualistic process of writing on beautiful stationery, sealing it, and stamping it with an initialed wax seal that I enjoy. The "Greta Garbo Special Edition" fountain pen from Montblanc seems like it would enhance that mood even further. I've been meaning to buy it for years and have missed opportunities, so I would be incredibly happy to receive it (lol). (Akiko Nakamura)
A gem that headphone enthusiasts can't miss
As someone who uses their iPhone almost exclusively as an iPod, headphones are always an item of interest. My desire to listen to music with great sound is only growing. That's when I encountered these dynamic stereo headphones. This collaboration between "Ashida Sound" and IDEA INTERNATIONAL has resulted in headphones that are a redesigned personal use version of authentic headphones originally used in audiovisual rooms. They have a remarkably retro appearance but are headphones that "play" exceptionally well. (Makoto Kajii)
I want an armchair I can have all to myself!
An armchair with a wide seat, where I can sit in any position, relax, and even take a nap. I want to place it in a corner of my room as my designated spot for taking a break, reading a book, or listening to music. The "Monte" chair from BoConcept offers comfortable seating in any position and allows for a wide selection of fabrics and leathers, which is also appealing. I fell in love with it after actually sitting in it. (Makoto Kajii)
Don't forget the romantic touch!
“If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around.”—At the beginning, the line spoken by the protagonist David, played by Hugh Grant, in the 2004 film "Love Actually" is memorable. Set in London at Christmas, it depicts the love stories of 19 men and women. While creating a romantic atmosphere with a story perfect for Christmas, the main gift is a super practical Blu-ray disc/DVD recorder. This way, without shattering the dreamlike feeling, you can give a reliably useful, foolproof item! (Mayu Fujita)
A mouse that transforms by assembling parts, igniting the male spirit
Mice released targeting competitive PC gamers are on a completely different level from ordinary mice. The difference is as significant as that between a modern supercar and a 20-year-old Kei car. Among these gaming mice, the "Cyborg R.A.T. 7" stands out with its extraordinary presence. Using the small hex wrench included and the optional parts, you can customize the size, grip, angle, and weight to your preference. It's too good a privilege to keep just for gamers! (Fumihiko Suzuki)
The long-awaited Carl Zeiss lens for E-mount
Since its release in June 2010, Sony's E-mount series has become the representative of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras with large APS-C sensors. While the lens lineup was initially somewhat lacking, this year saw the release of a macro lens, telephoto lenses, and the Carl Zeiss prime lens "E 24mm F1.8 ZA SEL24F18Z." At 35mm equivalent of 36mm, it's a wide-angle lens, but with an aperture of F1.8, it's bright. This makes it strong in low-light conditions and allows for beautiful background bokeh. I've been using the E-mount camera "NEX-5" extensively for a year. I desperately want this lens. (Shu Sugiura)
Two Days with Whom?
Director Jerzy Skolimowski, known as "the Polish Godard," whose latest film "Essential Killing" is still fresh in memory. While the experimental element of giving the lead actor Vincent Gallo no dialogue garnered attention, I believe his true forte lies in love stories. "Four Days with Anna" depicts what is truly an "ultimate unrequited love." I find myself feeling a sense of urgency at the end of 2011, wishing I had a girl like this who would choose such a movie nearby. (Yusuke Osmi)