Don't panic yet. It's still over a month left to Christmas, so there's still time to figure out what to get the ones that matter to you. But we've all got that one best mate that's always a task to shop for. It's not that he's picky. He's exact—knows what he likes, prioritises functionality over anything else, and doesn't need that much fluff in a product.
Yeah, well, maybe a little picky.
Fossil's Holiday Collection could provide some great options. The American watch and lifestyle brand, is first and foremost known for its slew of watches that cleverly combine style and functionality. But their series of leather goods and accessories have proven to be no slouches too. And not to mention, the brand's foray into the smartwatch market has resulted in an interpretation that functions just as well as it looks, and at a more affordable price point.
Here are seven options within Fossil's Holiday Collection that could potentially make for a winning Christmas gift for your best mate. If not, gift yourself something nice while you're at it.
FB-01 42mm in stainless steel case on a stainless steel bracelet, SGD229
What: A dive-inspired watch in stainless steel that looks good in any setting.
Perfect for: The avid swimmer. With a depth rating of 10 ATM, the FB-01 is able to withstand depths of a maximum of 100m. Which means, he's able to swim and snorkel with one no problem.
Extra points for: Looking expensive but a gift that you don't have to starve for.
Leather Buckner backpack, SGD639
What: A leather backpack that looks weathered and aged.
Perfect for: The one that carries a million mobile devices. The exterior of the Buckner backpack might look like any other, yet the interior is packed with nifty compartments that are designed to fit his tech needs. Fit a 13-inch laptop comfortably in the main compartment and mobile phones within easy reach in the slide pockets.
Extra points for: The off-white and deep green colour combination. Couple that with the aged treatment, he'd appreciate that it's a piece he doesn't have to be precious with.
Garrett Chronograph 44mm in stainless steel case on a stainless steel bracelet, SGD249
What: A chronograph watch in stainless steel that's accented with a gold tone.
Perfect for: The aspiring thought leader. The Garrett Chronograph is the fanciest watch option on this list (and the heftiest with a 44mm case) and commands a bit more respect. Tell time, make time and keep time all at once.
Extra points for: The sunray dial. It's a beautifully done treatment that's subtle but definitely elevates his wrist game.
Gen 5 Smartwatch 44mm in stainless steel case with interchangeable straps, SGD509
What: A smartwatch that's powered by Wear OS by Google and comes equipped with a host of functions. But most importantly, it's able to last for multiple days thanks to its battery-saving modes.
Perfect for: The one who always needs to be connected. He'll appreciate being able to take calls directly from the smartwatch, the rapid charging capabilities (just 50 minutes for an 80-percent charge), and access to an audible Google Assistant with the watch's new speaker feature.
Extra points for: Being able to be paired with both Android and iOS smartphones.
Leather Haskell workbag, SGD599
What: A not-so-serious, serious briefcase-messenger bag hybrid that's anything but dull.
Perfect for: The one who carries a sports backpack to the office; because no one should. Constructed in an aged leather (inspired by vintage leather jackets), this Haskell workbag is incredibly roomy for all his documents, work laptop, stationery and everything else he's got to shuttle to and from work.
Extra points for: The double-zip design. This means that he's able to separate things such as gym clothes, packed lunch or even liquids, from the important work stuff more effectively.
Nylon Buckner packable backpack, SGD139
What: A Buckner backpack that's easily packable into a compact pouch.
Perfect for: The constant traveller. It's a hardy backpack (thanks to the nylon constructions, it's able to hold its own against moisture) that's great for an extra space for unexpected over-shopping on trips.
Extra points for: Being sturdy like any typical backpack. There's always the risk of a packable bag to be flimsy, but this is not it.
Sport Smartwatch 43mm with interchangeable straps, SGD429
What: A smartwatch crafted specifically for the active individual in mind.
Perfect for: The fitness aficionado. As compared to Fossil's main smartwatch, the Sport Smartwatch is much lighter for negligible effect to his performance. And with 4GB of internal storage, he can leave his phone behind and listen to the music on the Sport Smartwatch while on a run.
Extra points for: The nifty Google Fit platform that aids with heart-rate tracking and health coaching based on the recommendations from the American Heart Association and World Health Organisation.
Fossil's Holiday Collection is now available in all Fossil stores, with selected designs available on Lazada, Shopee and Zalora.
