Travel -- 4 days ago
From watches to whisky: The best gifts for Father’s Day 2025
Whether he’s looking to upgrade his cocktail-making cabinet or boost his grooming game, these are some of the finest tokens of appreciation to give this year
Words: Gentleman's Journal
Father’s Day offers up a tricky gift-giving scenario – not quite as important as a birthday, but not so insignificant that you can get by with a card and a present of a slapdash nature. Thankfully, Gentleman’s Journal is on hand, as we’ve trawled the length and breadth of the internet to discover the products that hit that thoughtful-and-useful sweet spot. So, whether your old man – or the father figure in your life – wants to turbocharge his style creds, elevate his grooming gear or needs to add another libation to the cabinet, here are the best ideas to consider…
New threads
If we’re going off stereotypes, fashion likely isn’t your father’s strong suit (although, if he’s of a certain trimly tailored generation, he probably has a couple of strong suits). Thankfully, Father’s Day affords us all an opportunity to whip his wardrobe into slick, sophisticated shape.
With summer upon us, we'd begin with a classic linen shirt that can be effortlessly dressed up or down. This version from Luca Faloni is crafted in Northern Italy from 100% Italian linen and features elegant mother of pearl buttons. If he’s looking for a travel essential, there are few more easygoing off-duty options than this lightweight merino-cotton polo shirt that’s the result of a collaboration between Huntsman and John Smedley. Then, for a solid baseline, consider these classic chinos by Mr Marvis are appropriate for both the city and countryside.
Prim and proper
Despite what old-school thinking may say, Father’s Day was made for relaxing and pampering, especially given that this is an occasion for the man who’s put in the hard yards over the years (and will likely need a little rebooting when it comes to his skin- and haircare needs).
Elevate his everyday shaving routine with Daimon Barber’s Age Defence Shave Cream from John Bell & Croyden. If in doubt of his preferred fragrance, go for a timeless masculine scent like Chanel’s Bleu de Chanel Eau de Parfum. And this collagen-boosting serum from Dr Sebagh is just the thing to rejuvenate tired-looking skin.
On the clock
Now we move on to the bigger budget items. A watch may usually be reserved for milestone birthdays or anniversaries, but there’s something sentimental about presenting your father with the gift of time – especially when the wrist armour is as sleek and coveted as the below.
NOMOS Glashütte's Club Sport Neomatik World Timer is an excellent starting point, with its please-all stainless steel case, beautiful deep blue dial and easy-to-read 24-hour display. You can never go wrong with a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms and the limited edition Ocean Commitment IV is an excellent choice for both everyday wear and adventure sports. We're also big fans of this new model from the Longines Conquest Collection, which fuses a vintage aesthetic with cutting edge watchmaking technology.
It’s all in the details
Then, of course, if you happen to have already clocked up a fine suite of big-ticket presents for him over the years, a well-crafted accessory – one that is elegant in design, dials in on practicality, and can slip seamlessly into his lifestyle – makes for an extremely nifty present.
Shoes are often a reflection of one’s personality and deeper tastes, so it’s an area that’s tricky to navigate – yet, all things considered, the Northamptonshire-crafted Lucerne Chukka Boot from Cheaney has an understated colour palette and classic silhouette that makes it universally appealing. With sunnier days upon us, the elegant L.G.R Reunion Explorer sunglasses are both practical and stylish. And these Sunspel boxer shorts are a luxurious take on an everyday wardrobe essential.
For the outdoorsman
Whether your dad is the die-hard adventurous type or simply enjoys getting out for long walks with the dog, some functional yet equally beautiful gear will encourage him to make the most of the great outdoors.
If he's into hiking, treat him to a pair of hardworking yet stylish hiking shoes, courtesy of a collaboration between British outerwear brand Belstaff and footwear experts Merrell 1TRL. Tracksmith’s aptly named Downpour Jacket is a weatherproof wardrobe hero that’s ideal for running enthusiasts. And finally, this lightweight and breathable tee from REAL combines effortless everyday style with high-tech construction.
One for the road
A bottle of something strong is a classic Father's Day gift for a reason. This year, rather than swinging by the supermarket and picking up a bargain bottle the day before, try to put a bit of thought into what he’d actually want.
If he leans towards the brown stuff, treat him to a bottle of Tamdhu 21 Year Old, which is matured in hand-selected American and European oak casks for a wonderful balance of sweetness and dryness. Or opt for the wonderfully complex sherry-led Lakes Signature Single Malt, which comes with a complimentary rocks glass, the ultimate treat for a whisky lover. For oenophiles, reach for Nyetimber's 1086, a summer-ready sparkling wine that elegantly blends Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Finally, Louis Roederer’s Cristal 2015 is a prestige cuvée that’s well-deserving of its status as a classic of the Champagne world.
Home is where the heart is
Help spruce up your dad’s space with thoughtfully chosen homewares that will elevate any ‘man cave’.
This sleek coffee machine from illy, designed by architect and designer Luca Trazzi, is as stylish as it is useful. Audiophiles will adore Linn’s meticulously crafted Majik LP12, which opens a door to a whole new world of hi-fi. And you can never go wrong with a beautifully scented candle. This Cypress & Grapevine candle from Jo Malone emits a wonderfully warm fragrance.
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