Wishlist: Smart speaker, platinum drone and green dial Panerai
From a calfskin bag to classic boots, this is what we want this week
As one of the leading trailblazers in the drone business, DJI has once again raised the bar with its latest product, the Mavic Pro Platinum. Made with a brand-new aerodynamic design, this quadrocopter features efficient motors that allow for a flight time of 30 minutes (10 per cent longer than the previous model) while the 8331 propellers ensure a quieter, more enjoyable flying experience by reducing aircraft noise by up to 4dB (60% noise power). Additionally, it features a three-axis gimbal and measures only 83 x 83 x 198mm when folded, making it easy for even novices to control with confidence.
British audio company Ruark Audio has just released its third generation R7 modern radiogram, and it is, unsurprisingly, a living room necessity for the modern day. The latest addition to the range includes functions such as built-in Spotify Connect and a new multi-room capability which allows you to distribute music throughout your house due to the R2 music streaming system.
The Mk3’s slimmer cabinet design, minimalist front panel and mid-century-inspired spindle legs also make it appear more like a design object rather than a piece of tech, allowing it to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings. Available now in either walnut or a grey lacquer with a grille fabric covering the front.
Ever since its first pair of boots rolled off the manufacturing line in 1905, the Red Wing Shoe Company has become America’s go-to brand for hard-wearing, yet stylish, footwear. One of its more popular silhouettes is the 6-inch Moc Toe as it combines both heritage aesthetics and rugged detail to great effect. Triple-stitched and rubber-soled, these beauties are hand-crafted in the US to ensure durability and high-quality. Wear with a pair of hard-wearing selvedge jeans and a faded flannel shirt for full effect.
Renowned for his chairs and seating pieces, Hans Wegner was a prolific designer whose devotion to the finest methods in joinery helped make Danish Modern a worldwide phenomena. And the Papa Bear Chair – like many of his other works – is a reference to the animal kingdom, with one critic having referred to its armrests as ‘great bear paws embracing you from behind’.
Designed in 1951 and crafted for at least two weeks, this oversized seat has foam cushions and natural fibre stuffing for added comfort, and the metal springs provide sensitive support for the back. The example you see here has been expertly restored, retains the original Danish Control tag and is complete with a matching ottoman in a black leather finish.
Black and silver have long dominated watch design. Blue and slate grey are currently enjoying their time in the limelight. But dark green? Besides several brilliant timepieces by Rolex and Seiko, very few brands have opted to utilise that colourway. That’s why Panerai’s latest forest-coloured offerings are a refreshing addition to the horological market.
The collection is made up of a trio of historic cases – Radiomir, Radiomir 1940 and Luminor 1950 -, and although each one has its own distinctive functions, all three share some striking common features such as a dark green dial with luminous beige markers and gilded hands, a steel or titanium case and a strap of natural brown leather with contrasting beige stitching and stamped OP logo. Available exclusively at Panerai boutiques worldwide.
The smart speaker market is slowly becoming saturated by the day, and its newest entry is the LF-S50G – Sony’s answer to the Amazon Echo and similar home devices. Housed in a cylindrical design akin to Apple’s HomePod, the LF-S50G runs on the same Google Assistant that Google Home uses (to grab its attention simple say “Hey Google” or “OK Google”) but also supports non-touch hand gestures for times when you don’t feel like using your voice.
And although you may think that it’s no different to its competitors, what sets it apart, according to Sony, is its sound quality. Not only does the device contain a separate full range speaker and subwoofer, but it also has an “omnidirectional two stage diffuser” to send sound in all directions around a room. The splash-proof design with a water repellant surface and the removable fabric grille are also notable specs that help elevate this beauty from the crowd.
Founded in London in 2015, designer Xenabe Lone specialises in stripped-back, genderless leather goods and accessories which are just as functional as they are stylish. This tote bag made from calfskin leather includes subtle features such as an embossed logo and dust-bag and is ideal to carry around when you want to dress-up your casual Sunday afternoon ensemble.
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