Hello everyone, and welcome to another Singaporean article! On this shiok Sunday, I’ve taken the liberty of curating a list of gift ideas for Father’s Day. For those who are unaware, Father’s Day is in exactly two weeks’ time (on the 21st of June) so if you haven’t already done so, you should definitely start thinking about what to get! In usual circumstances, it’s already hard enough to think of gifts to get – but with retail stores remaining closed during Phase 1, you can’t exactly simply get your dad something from a store on the day itself.
But don’t fret – that’s what this article is for! In this article, I’ve rounded up a list of different gift ideas, all of which can be personalised to truly make your dad feel special. The below brands are (with the exception of UNDONE) mainly homegrown, so you will be supporting local businesses during these tough COVID times as well.
Without further ado, let’s get into the listicle!
Watches:
Perhaps more so than any other item on this list, watches often possess emotional attachment – it’s not uncommon to for people to purchase a watch to commemorate special occasions. As such, a personalised watch would probably be the most special gift you could get your dad, in my opinion!
1) UNDONE Watches
If you want to truly customise a watch for your father, UNDONE is your best bet.
Who they are: “Established in 2014, UNDONE is the world’s leading custom watch label founded by a team of dedicated watch industry veterans. The core philosophy of the company is enabling everyone from all walks of life to create their unique personalized watch at a great value without sacrificing quality. By combining traditional watchmaking with modern-day technology, UNDONE grants people the power to narrate their perception of time through their tailor-made watches. The production of all UNDONE brand products is made in-house, allowing their team to have full control over every aspect that goes into the making of their unique watches.”
My opinion: If you like customising your watches, you can’t go wrong with UNDONE. The UNDONE customisation tool is a breeze and a joy to use, and one really gets the satisfaction when strapping a custom made (to one’s design impetus!) watch on the wrist. Despite the custom made nature of most of their watches, UNDONE’s prices are fairly reasonable – prices (after promo code below) starts at just $204 USD/ ~$290 SGD for the Urban Chronograph when paired with a perlon strap. Overall, I find UNDONE watches great for not only meaningful gifts, but also an outlet for one to express their individuality. In addition, I have to highlight the new UNDONE Zen Cartograph (pictured above). The design of the watch is based upon the Feng Shui instrument Luo Pan, with a rotating Yin Yang disk at its centre, made possible by its usage of a Seiko VH31 Sweeping Quartz movement. Furthermore, customers can enter their birth year in the customiser and UNDONE will translate it to the corresponding celestial deity in the caseback printing. Talk about cool!
Reviews: I have reviewed multiple UNDONE watches till date – I reviewed the UNDONE Aqua, the UNDONE Urban Vintage, the UNDONE Urban Tropical, the UNDONE Urban Ultraman, the UNDONE Urban Peanuts, the UNDONE Basecamp, and the UNDONE Monopoly. I will be reviewing the UNDONE Zen Cartographer soon, so keep a look out for that!
Where to buy: UNDONE’s web-store. UNDONE is also a partner of Wah So Shiok – readers enjoy 10% off products on their web-store! Just quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy the discount.
2) H2 Hub
If your father prefers a more traditional watch from a “household brand”, then I suggest getting a personalised Seiko watch from local watch retailer, H2 Hub!
Who they are: “We are a leading retailer of mid-price watches and watch accessories for men and women. Our portfolio of must-have brands from around the world is curated to include styles and movements for every taste and price point.”
My opinion: To me, H2 Hub makes for a great AD partner as they are an established homegrown brand with multiple locations in heartland malls, with a focus on affordable watches. Granted, H2 Hub does sell multiple fashion watch brands, but they also offer watches for the serious watch collector, thus catering to both segments of the watch market. In personal experience, H2 Hub has some of the lowest prices for Seiko timepieces in the market – I got my Seiko Cocktail Time “Irish Coffee” from them! And yes, you can still personalise the caseback of the watch with text or image of your choice. If you’re looking for a recommendation, I would suggest going for the new Seiko Presage Cocktail Time “Mockingbird”, which is currently only $468 on H2 Hub. The emerald dial is simply spectacular, and it is undoubtedly (in my opinion) the best Seiko you can get for under $500 currently.
Reviews: I drafted a list of watches that I would get from H2 Hub here.
Where to buy: H2 Hub’s web-store. H2 Hub is also a partner of Wah So Shiok – readers enjoy $10 off all products on their web-store! Just quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy the discount.
Perfume:
Now that we have exited the Circuit Breaker, many people – including perhaps your dad – are now going back to work. If so, I urge you to consider getting your dad a customised bottle of perfume so that he can smell fresh at work!
3) Maison 21G
The “UNDONE” of perfumes, check out Maison 21G if you want to customise a unique scent for your dad!
Who they are: “We’re a House of Scent Designers. Come inside and feel empowered to experiment with the finest ingredients. With us, you’ll be able to unlock your soul scent. Free of all toxins and hazards, this is a scent of your own. Made by you, for you.”
My opinion: I love Maison 21G – they are undoubtedly one of my personal favourites on this list. Firstly, their Duxton road boutique is welcoming and beautifully designed, though that is currently closed in Phase 1. There, Maison 21G offers a perfume workshop, where participants can learn about the history and art of perfume making, as well as get the opportunity to bespoke their own scent. Secondly, I love their concept of “tailoring” a scent for yourself. As you guys know, I’m quite big on tailoring, and was immensely intrigued by the concept of bringing the same notion over to fragrances. How Maison 21G works is simple – they have over 30 different solo scents, and which customers can combine to make their own unique scent. According to the brand, there are over a hundred different combinations for customers to explore! My favourite has to be combining Tea Time with Terrific Tonka, as well as Cannabis Cloud with Ginger Game. Oh yes – Maison 21G also offers free engraving of text and images on each of their perfume bottles, so they make for a great custom gift! Perfume roll-ons are also available for those that prefer non-alcoholic products. For those interested, I chronicled my experience of attending a workshop at Maison 21G here.
Prices: A 25ml EDP bottle (combination of two scents) starts at $80, while their perfume workshop starts at $120. As Maison 21G is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, readers can quote the promo code “WAHSOSHIOK” upon checkout to enjoy 20% off all products and workshops online!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their online store here, or visit their lovely boutique over at 77 Duxton Road when Phase 1 is over.
4) Scent by Six
If customising sounds like too much of a hassle for you, I think Scent by Six is a great alternative!
Who they are: “A cocktail mix of emotions and memories, SIX’s fine fragrances are inspired by destinations and immersive spaces aimed to appeal to your wanderlust.”
My opinion: SIX burst into the local fragrance scene in 2016 with its initial trio of perfumes, the Tribeca, Puka and my favourite, the Biei. Packaged in a svelte black form factor – it looks more like lip balm than a perfume bottle – the scents were meant to evoke the smells and vibe of the namesake locations. I found the concept of perfumes inspired by locations (which the founder had been to and loved) immensely intriguing. The scents are very unique as well, unlike anything I’ve ever smelt. The founder, Jason, actually worked at world-renowned fragrance house Givaudan for 4 years, and used that expertise to develop scents for his own brand. For those who desire a more exotic scent, SIX is definitely a good option to consider. The best part? Their perfume bottles are refillable, so you can simply buy a refill (at a much lower price) when you run out. Not only is it economically friendly, it’s environmentally friendly as well! Lastly, you can still customise the bottles with initials of your choice, making it a viable gift option for Father’s Day. For more information, do read my review of Scent by SIX here!
Prices: A 20ml EDT bottle starts at $66 while refills costs $45. As Scent by SIX is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, readers can quote the promo code “WAHSOSHIOK” upon checkout to enjoy 10% off all products online!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their online store here, or visit their physical stores at Bugis Junction when Phase 1 is over.
Wallets:
The classic Father’s Day gift. If you don’t know what to get – perhaps your father doesn’t wear watches, or is not fond of perfumes – then get him a wallet! It’s always a safe choice.
5) Faire Leather
Faire Leather offers wallets that are simply packed with functionality – perfect for the busy gentleman on the move.
Who they are: Faire Leather Co. describes themselves as “a men’s leather goods online label that redefines true value as Functional Luxury at a Fair Price.” Founded in Singapore by Joseph Lor and Ryan Choy, Faire Leather Co. taps traditional know-how from decades of heritage and experience with real-time feedback and data to create stylish products designed for maximum function.
My opinion: Faire Leather Co is able to tap upon the decades worth of manufacturing capability of Tocco Toscano – ensuring that you get a quality product (likely crafted by the same craftsmen who have been making Tocco Toscano products for decades) at an affordable price. There’s a reason why they managed to raise over $400K on their debut Kickstarter project, making them one of the most funded Singaporean crowdfunded project till date. Personally, I love the ability of Faire to combine sleek, minimalist looks with ultra-functional utility. Take their Specter Bifold Wallet for example. Despite the minimalist look, it has a hidden card slot, a hidden coin compartment (!), and a quick access card slot with a pull-tab (seen above). Oh yes – you can add monograms as well, making them a meaningful yet functional gift for your dad! Form and function, at a price that won’t break the bank.
Price: The Specter Bifold Wallet is priced at $99. As Faire Leather is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders. Yes – that means that the Specter Bifold Wallet would only cost $89!
Shipping: Free islandwide.
Where to buy: Interested readers can order from their web-store here.
6) Gnome & Bow
Is your dad more of a creative – perhaps someone who loves literary classics? If so, a Gnome & Bow wallet would be the perfect gift!
Who they are: “Gnome & Bow was founded on that very notion that bags can go beyond functionality to become a new medium for storytelling, evoking the same emotions as our favorite stories…Drawing inspiration from the classics to tales of fancy, we develop story elements that are imbued seamlessly into our goods….Timeless as the stories that inspire us, we believe that our bags should be too. Our collection of bags, wallets and small leather accessories are designed to be the perfect companion for the discerning individual.”
My opinion: Gnome & Bow is one of my favourite local brands. I love how they seamlessly weave literary elements of iconic fables into the design of their wallets. In particular, I love the patterned fabric lining that the brand uses, which gives their wallets a sartorial vibe. The brand just launched their new RFID collection, which protects credit cards and passports against fraud and identity theft. The new wallets are now equipped with discreet compartments for coins, keys, SIM card and pin when the need arises, which also flatten when not in use. In addition, all of their wallets can be personalised with monograms of your choice, making their wallets perfect as gifts too! As the icing on the cake, Gnome & Bow is including a complimentary handwritten greeting card with every purchase to assist customers with getting a personal touch as it is inconvenient to look for a greeting card while most stores are closed during Phase 1. I find that very thoughtful of the brand. If you’re on a budget, Gnome & Bow is also currently having a sale on their older models! For more information, I reviewed Gnome & Bow’s wallets here.
Price: Gnome & Bow wallets currently start at $119. As Gnome & Bow is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders. Yes – that means that Gnome & Bow wallets can be had for as low as $107!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their web-store here.
Writing Instruments:
For those looking for a more thoughtful gift, why not consider getting your dad some writing instruments, such as a fountain pen and a personalised notebook?
7) Cityluxe
Cityluxe is a homegrown purveyor of writing instruments, offering a wide variety of pens, inks, notebooks and more at attractive prices.
Who they are: “We are an online store for stationery lovers and all things for journaling. Cityluxe WorkRoom was created as a third place for all of us who enjoy the community of journaling, writing, sketching, and drawing. An uplifting place to relax, enjoy, experience, share and learn. We strive to inspire and nurture our inner spirits, one pen, one book, one person, one neighbourhood at a time. Live simply and write daily.”
My opinion: I recently developed a love for fountain pens and journaling during this Circuit Breaker period. Like many, I spent most of my CB time in front of my computer, and I just wanted a break from the digital life. As such, I found myself spending more time taking on analog notes, putting pen to paper, planning my days and what I wanted to accomplish during this CB. The more I wrote, the more I grew to appreciate fountain pens. In many senses, fountain pens are exactly like mechanical watches. Sure, there are cheap ballpoint pens that will get the job done at a fraction of the price, but it simply doesn’t exude the same enjoyment as a fountain pen does. There’s a sense of class and workmanship to fountain pens that I really appreciate, and I’m sure your dad will too! Whether as a daily writer or just something special to sign cheques and documents, a fountain pen makes for a great, thoughtful gift. In addition, a customised notebook (which Cityluxe also offers) makes for the perfect accompaniment! I’ll be reviewing writing instruments on Wah So Shiok in the future, so do look out for that!
Price: At Cityluxe, fountain pens start at $19.90, while notebooks start at $8.90. As Cityluxe is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders.
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their web-store here.
Tailored Clothes:
Last but not least, you could also get your dad some tailored clothing!
8) Closeknip
Closeknip is one of my personal favourite tailors, due to their combination of experience and innovation. While their front-end remains closed during this Phase 1, their production has resumed. To serve the needs of those who are in urgent need of tailored clothing, Closeknip has introduced a “Contactless fitting system”.
Who they are: For those who prefer a more sartorial vibe, Closeknip is for you! Despite having been established for less than a year, the brand has experience in spades – it is the brainchild of Leslie Chia, who has helmed bespoke tailoring outfit PIMABS for over 15 years.
My opinion: Closeknip has been one of my favourite tailors thus far. It’s a great blend of old and new – the showroom (with its complimentary booze) and styling designs feel young and fresh, but unlike other young tailors Closeknip is backed by decades of experience in the form of Leslie Chia. This is someone who’s a stalwart in the local tailoring scene, often mentioned in the same breath as Kelvin Seah, Thomas Wong, and Dylan & Son, someone who usually does $3000 suits for celebrities. At Closeknip, you not only get the design impetus and the styling advice of Leslie, but also his measuring prowess and meticulous attention to detail when it comes to fit. In fact, Closeknip recently provided the red carpet looks for the stars of local indie film Wet Season during the film’s opening during the Singapore International Film Festival! While their showroom is currently closed during Phase 1, the innovative brand has just introduced their “Contactless fitting system”.
Leveraging on the precision of the CLOSEKNIP sizing templates, combined with the online interfacing technology, the team will get online with clients during the first consultation to understand the clients’ requirements, guiding them through a simple self-measuring system, and fabric preselection. Following that, the matching fitting templates and fabrics will be sent to clients using contactless delivery services; clients will try on the matching templates and go on a realtime consultation on ZOOM to share his feedback & adjustments needed, and fabric choice to complete the order. Like the original process, the entire contactless fitting is done within 1 (online) fitting consultation. Finally, the finished shirts/pants will be ready for delivery to clients in 2 weeks. With both retail stores and most traditional tailors closed during this Phase 1, it can be a pain to get well-fitting clothes. If this is a struggle that your dad is currently experiencing, getting him tailored garments from Closeknip will certainly land you in his good books!
Price: Just for readers, Closeknip is offering an exclusive 10% off all items – simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” whilst booking the appointment or flash this post to enjoy the discount. After the discount, a 3 piece shirt bundle would start at $405, while a 2 piece suit would start at $629!
Where to buy: Interested customers can book a (virtual) appointment with Closeknip here.
Conclusion
That rounds up my list of gifts you can get your dad for Father’s Day! All the options mentioned above are customisable in some shape or form, so you can truly personalise your gift. With the exception of UNDONE, all the brands mentioned above are homegrown, so you will be doing our local economy a favour as well. Do note that each brand has their own cut-off date for Father’s Day orders, so do be mindful of that when ordering!
P.S Do check out the new “Discounts!” page for exclusive discounts for Wahsoshiok readers! More brands will be added very soon – stay tuned!
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P.S.S.S Shiok is a common word Singaporeans use to express admiration or approval. As of 2016, you can find the definition of the word in the Oxford English Dictionary.
