While they are, ultimately, kind of arbitrary, anniversaries can still be pretty cool, especially when they motivate brands to introduce celebratory drops of real quality.

Between Ka-Bar’s 125th birthday and 30 years of CRKT’s M16, that’s exactly what happened this week.

Meanwhile, Buck launched a pair of stunningly upgraded classics, and Leatherman brought two striking new finishes to a first-responder essential.

Catch up on everything you might have missed below.

Ka-Bar

Ka Bar 125th Anniversary Knife

Ka-Bar’s USMC Fighting Knife is among the most iconic knives of all time, fixed-blade or otherwise. Now, a special edition of that knife (and a trio of others) has been launched to honor the brand’s monumental 125th anniversary. They’re all still crafted just as marvelously, boasting 1095 Cro-Van steel full-tang blades and leather handles, but they also get 125th anniversary graphics on the blade and sheath. There are versions for the USMC, Army and Navy, as well as a fourth non-military edition geared toward backcountry and survival use.

• $166 at Ka-Bar

Leatherman

Leatherman Raptor Rescue (Violet/Rainbow and Violet/Rose Gold)

Thanks to its streamlined set of purpose-driven tools, Leatherman’s scissor sister is beloved by emergency professionals. Their admiration will likely only grow with two eye-popping new treatments celebrating International Nurses Day (May 12), Violet/Rainbow and Violet/Rose Gold. Meanwhile all the classic coveted features remain: substantial folding shears, a ring cutter, a strap cutter, an oxygen tank wrench, a carbide glass breaker and a 5cm ruler.

• $80 at Leatherman

We Knife

We Knife Arrakis

Four years ago, renowned knife designer Elijah Isham passed away. To honor his legacy and to keep his dream alive, We Knife has launched two new editions of his wild Arrakis integral folder. Named after the planet from Dune, this futuristic EDC folder has a lot going on, including a skeletonized one-piece titanium handle, either carbon fiber or titanium inlays and a Vanax super-steel blade.

• $588 at We Knife (Black)
• $612 at We Knife (Gray)

What is it about little things we love so much? From Mini-Me to Grogu, the Microblade to the Micra, our obsession with small is, well, big.

The charm even carries over to motorcycles, with small-displacement bikes gaining popularity by the day.

Honda

Brands like Honda seemingly knew it all along, as it has been producing a range of little engines that could for well over half a century.

Even so, the brand’s latest release may be its most compelling yet, as the cult-favorite Grom gets three new liveries, including a race-inspired treatment that’s so pitch-perfect it hurts.

Keep Grom and carry on

From the jump I’ll drop three important caveats. First off, these colorways just got announced for the UK market; I expect them to hit the US within months but not yet. 

Honda

Second, while the bike got major updates last year, including redesigned bodywork as part of a major overhaul, the paint schemes are the big story in 2026. The icing on the cake they baked last year, if you will.

Third, for the record, I know Honda makes an even more approachable, affordable motorcycle in the Navi, but let’s be honest, it’s kind of a glorified moped amiright?

Honda

As for the colors themselves, the brand’s batting three for three with Pearl Shining Black, Splendid Blue and especially Gayety Red.

That third option features a tri-colored Honda Racing-inspired livery that I’m sure we’ll see zipping around paddocks this summer.

Honda

The color scheme also has wide patriotic appeal that could help it become a big hit around the world.

Honda notes that the Grom’s bodywork is simple to detach, to the delight of rugged individualists itching to mod it out with stickers, graphics or wraps.

Honda

Beyond the aesthetics, the Grom retains the appealing features that have helped it sell nearly 900,000 units worldwide (including close to 100,00 in the US) since its 2012 launch.

Highlights include a full LED lighting, an LCD display (with a rev counter and gear position indicator) and of course a 125cc two-valve air-cooled engine, which makes a charming 9.47 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and 7.7 Ib-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm.

Honda

Yes, those numbers are more cute than quick, but that’s what makes the bike so approachable for beginners, while still helping them master the art of shifting, thanks to its five-speed gearbox, and score a sweet little adrenaline rush, via the top speed of 58 miles power hours.

The bike also boasts a 31mm inverted fork, a rear monoshock and ground clearance of 7 inches, plus a low seat height of 30 inches and the feathery curb weight of 227 pounds, letting you feel as nimble as a young Valentino Rossi with every gnarly, tiny turn. 

Availability and pricing

The 2026 Honda Grom is hitting the UK market (under the MSX125 nameplate) at a starting price (unchanged from 2025) of £3,999.

If the bike follows typical Honda release patterns, I can see it launching stateside within a couple of months, starting price at $3,599.

Honda

2026 Honda Grom

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If the lines outside of Swatch stores weren’t your first clue, the Royal Pop is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon.

Not since the original Moonswatch has a timepiece captured such widespread attention, and not just among enthusiasts.

The general public’s fever-dream reaction to Swatch’s upcoming collaboration with Audemars Piguet has drawn comparisons to sneakers, Stanley tumblers and one cute, albeit mischievous, creature called the Labubu. Maybe you know it.

Swatch

But the Royal Pop isn’t just the biggest release of the year. It’s the most controversial one, too.

The brands’ decisions to partner up — for a pocket watch, no less! — has inspired impassioned takes on both sides of the aisle, with many fans questioning the longterm effects the Royal Pop will have on the legacy of two iconic Swiss brands.

Swatch

Just as many celebrate their attempts to bring more awareness to horology, regardless of the form factor.

Ahead of its release, I decided to poll staffers at both Gear Patrol and our partner site, Digital Photography Review, for their impression of the Royal Pop.

Here’s what they had to say …

Swatch

“I just don’t really see the need”

“Keychain clock? Tether timepiece? I don’t even know what to call it. But I do know that, if I can’t wear it on my wrist, I have little use for it.

“On some level, I can appreciate it. It’s an interesting interpretation. And I think a part of this is AP trying not to dilute its most iconic watch. But I just don’t really see a need for this beyond, I suppose, novelty.”

— Sean Tirman, associate editor, Gear Patrol

“This collab was very well done”

“Anything that brings watchmaking and watch brands to wider attention is A-OK in my book, and I happen to think this collab was very well done. The colors are a lot of fun and all of the designs look great.

“Perhaps more importantly, the decision to make the Royal Pop a Lababu-slaying bag charm rather than a plastic wristwatch keeps it from diluting the Royal Oak in any way, allowing it to exist as its own unique collectible rather than simply being a cheap imitation of a luxury product.”

— Johnny Brayson, editor, Gear Patrol

Swatch

“A Day-Glo pastiche line doesn’t exactly burnish the Royal Oak image”

“The gummy-candy color scheme means these look like octagonal Pop Swatches, rather than a meaningful engagement with the Royal Oak lineage.

“APs are an acquired taste at the best of times and a Day-Glo pastiche line doesn’t exactly burnish the Royal Oak image.”

— Richard Butler, managing editor of reviews and standards, Digital Photography Review

Swatch

“As a parent, this could be fun to have for my kiddo”

“I see a Croc Jibbet pendant and I can’t unsee it. That said, as a parent, this could be fun to have for my kiddo.”

— Caitlyn Shaw, director of growth strategy and development, Gear Patrol

“I’m trying to figure out who this 21st-century pocket watch is for”

“I’m trying to figure out who this 21st-century pocket watch is for.

“The Edwardian gentleman who wants to honor tradition while absolutely betraying it? A modern-day Willy Wonka who sees the whole world through candy-colored glasses? The tech bro who’s excited that someone has finally disrupted horology?

“I won’t make a full assessment until I’ve given it a proper once-over through my monocle.”

— Dale Baskin, managing editor, Digital Photography Review

“I love when watch brands f**k with people”

“I love when watch brands f**k with people. Knowing humans, this will probably be huge.”

— Steve Mazzucchi, managing editor, Gear Patrol

Swatch

“These reminded me why pocket watches died off to begin with”

“More kitschy than actually stylish. Wristwatches in general are style accessories but have some practical value. These reminded me why pocket watches died off to begin with.”

— Ethan Brehm, associate editor, Gear Patrol

“Grandpacore hits hard”

“Grandpacore hits hard with Gen Z and the return of the pocket watch.”

— Richard Laws, software engineer, Digital Photography Review

“There’s nothing I love more than a brand that’s so confident in itself that it shows it can have fun”

“It’s awesome. My strong sense is that the Royal Pop will appeal to three types of buyers: the brand curious, the young enthusiast and the drip-lord. All three matter.

“Anyone worried about these things diluting the marquee pieces is missing the point, which I think is kind of the point. Also, there’s nothing I love more than a brand that’s so confident in itself that it shows it can have fun, too.”

— Eric Yang, founder and CEO, Gear Patrol

Swatch

“An absolute L”

“Swatch and Audemars Piguet had an incredible opportunity to create the item of the summer if the piece was a wristwatch. Would that cheapen AP’s brand? Arguably. Would that also have the entire internet talking about AP for months even after the release? Definitely. A pocket watch that is only going to be seen outside on the streets of SoHo is an absolute L. They should have gone all the way!”

— James Tirado, senior video content producer, Gear Patrol

“Fascinating to watch unfold”

“I’m still pretty hot and cold on my MoonSwatch purchase, so I’ll need some time to convince myself to buy one. All the same, I’m a big fan of what Swatch and AP have spun up with Royal Pop. It’s quirky, fun and, if nothing else, disruptive.

“In the long run, this means larger impacts like improved brand awareness and pledged donations. More immediately, it has sparked a frenzy to design a bracelet. Throw in AI, and it’s made for a release that’s been fascinating to watch unfold.”

— Gray Van Dyke, associate editor, Gear Patrol

“Products in recent years have been drained of color, so seeing something vibrant is really nice”

“I wanted to dislike this when I first saw it, but after staring at it for a bit, it dawned on me: it’s just a modern take on a pocket watch that’s meant to be fun.

“I have been loving more playful design lately. It’s something we’ve been seeing making a tiny comeback in the camera world, too, and this fits right into that idea. It’s neat seeing something typically very serious and formal with a lighthearted look.

“Products in recent years have been drained of color, so seeing something vibrant is really nice. This type of application seems perfect for it, too.”

— Abby Ferguson, features editor, Digital Photography Review

“I’m more interested in the debut of the hand-wound Sistem51 movement”

“Watch enthusiasts love a good branded accessory, like a hat or keychain. People are very willing to pay for cool swag, as demonstrated by a thriving second-hand market. To me, that’s where the Royal Pop fits in.

“Personally, I’m more interested in the debut of the hand-wound Sistem51 movement, and I hope Swatch puts it in some proper wristwatches.”

— Brad Lanphear, associate editor, Gear Patrol

Swatch

“This brings back nostalgic memories”

“This brings back nostalgic memories of the time my grandfather gave me his Waltham pocket watch, which he got from his father.

“I kept it on display in the house but I could never be bothered keeping such a watch on my person … at least until seeing what Swatch has come up with. Especially with one being made in my favorite color, deep blue, I may have to finally commit.”

— Matthew Anderson, community manager, Digital Photography Review

“I’m not a Swatch guy in general, let alone a Swatch pocket watch guy”

“The Royal Pop seems like something I can appreciate from afar, but it’s not something I’d ever be compelled to see in the wild. I mean, I’m not a Swatch guy in general, let alone a Swatch pocket watch guy. But more power to them.”

— Tucker Bowe, associate editor, Gear Patrol

Swatch

“As someone fortunate enough to own an AP, I don’t feel remotely threatened by this collaboration”

“Practicality stopped being the point of luxury consumption a long time ago. After Labubus, Stanley cups and every other seemingly random flex object of the last five years, I’m not betting against this becoming a viral status symbol.

“Honestly, though, as someone fortunate enough to own an AP, I don’t feel remotely threatened by this collaboration.

“Purists will see this as AP ‘cheapening’ itself. But luxury brands don’t survive purely because enthusiasts think they’re special. They survive because everyone else does, too. And this is clearly about AP trying to become culturally recognizable outside of watch forums and athlete or hip-hop style spotting.

“The question is whether enough people walk away understanding that behind the playful plastic object is a brand capable of making some of the finest watches on Earth.”

— Ben Bowers, cofounder and chief content officer, Gear Patrol

Founded in 2017, Fyne Audio is a relatively new Scottish hi-fi manufacturer that specializes in high-end loudspeakers. Its models can range from a few hundred bucks with its entry-level F300i bookshelf speakers, to over $50K with its flagship F1-12S floor-standing speakers.

While the company has primarily focused on passive speaker systems, designed for traditional stereo and home theater applications, it’s now taking its first genuine swing at wireless hi-fi with its first active speaker system.

And, surprisingly, it’s relatively affordable.

Fyne Audio Cubitt 5

Fyne Audio

Its first active speaker system

The Cubitt 5 is the company’s first active speaker system. It’s comprised of two bookshelf-sized speakers, with the primary one housing the amplification, digital signal processing and wired connections.

This means that, unlike larger, more high-end active speaker systems, like KEF’s LS50 Wireless II, only one of the speakers needs to be plugged into power.

Fyne Audio

Fyne Audio

Admittedly, the Cubitt 5 doesn’t stray too far away from other compact active speaker systems (which have become an incredibly popular category). It’s quite versatile.

Each system has analog RCA and optical digital inputs, as well as HDMI eARC, so it can be integrated in a larger system or be used as TV speakers. It has a built-in phono preamplifier (that supports both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges), so it can directly connect to your turntable.

On the streaming side, it has built-in Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC support. There’s no Wi-Fi streaming.

Fyne Audio

Fyne Audio

Trickle-down driver technology

The main feature of the Cubitt 5 is that each speaker is integrated with the company’s latest-generation IsoFlare point-source driver, which is trickled down from most of its higher-end lines, as well as its FyneFlute surround technology. According to the brand, this combination helps it deliver a “precise stereo imaging and immersive natural sound no matter where you sit in the room.”

Despite its relatively compact size, the Cubitt 5 is a pretty beefy system. It features 240 watts of DSP-controlled amplification, which the company claims enables it to deliver a “clean, detailed, powerful sound at any volume.”

The system supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz.

Fyne Audio

Fyne Audio

Availability and pricing

Fyne Audio’s Cubitt 5 active speaker system is available in five contemporary finishes: Arctic White, Midnight Black, Olive Green, Pearl Titanium and Pebble Grey.

Each system cost $749 and is available now.

Fyne Audio

Fyne Audio Cubitt 5

• $749 at Fyne Audio

While Citizen has made inroads within the enthusiast community in recent years with a renewed focus on automatic watchmaking, the Japanese brand’s bread and butter remains its signature Eco-Drive light-powered quartz technology.

Citizen remains the watch brand most associated with solar power, and 2026 marks 50 years of Eco-Drive technology. The brand has been celebrating the occasion all year with a variety of special editions, with the latest coming in the form of an entire series of limited-edition Eco-Drive models called “Light in Black.”

A light in the dark

The Light in the Black collection comprises five limited-edition Eco-Drive watches, each one a blacked-out, glowed-up version of an existing Citizen model.

The concept behind the collection was a single light piercing the darkness, meant to recall Eco-Drive’s ability to draw power from any light source. Citizen accomplishes the theme aesthetically via blacked-out cases and bracelets to represent the dark with gold-colored accents standing in for the beam of light.

Additionally, all five models share the same black, inkjet-printed dial treatment that consists of five overlapping patterns meant to represent 50 years of Eco-Drive. The dials, which incorporate recycled material, have a random layered effect reminiscent of meteorite. All five also sit under a sapphire crystal.

Citizen

As for the watches themselves, we have two high-end Attesa models, one Promaster Dive, one Eco-Drive Chronograph and one Citizen L Tank-inspired ladies watch.

The more exclusive of the two Attesa models is a Satellite Wave GPS F950 model (Ref. CC4078-51E) featuring a black case and bracelet in Duratect DLC Super Titanium with bezel accents in Duratect Amber Yellow, a first for an Attesa model.

Its Cal. F950 Eco-Drive movement is accurate to within +/-5 seconds per month on its own, but that’s almost moot, given its satellite-connected atomic timekeeping ensures the time is always correct no matter where you are in the world. Its robust lineup of features includes a world timer, chronograph and perpetual calendar.

Citizen

Boasting many of the same features and the same Super Titanium build is the Attesa Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled model (Ref. AT8384-58E). It has a smaller case (42 vs 44.6mm) and different styling, with the biggest difference being the use of Duratect Amber Yellow being used for the lugs and midcase. Its Cal. H504 movement also isn’t quite as accurate, with a mean monthly rate of +/-15 seconds and atomic correction courtesy of more finicky terrestrial radio towers.

Jumping out of the Attesa line, we have a Promaster Dive (Ref. BN0264-53E). It’s in stainless steel with a mix of gray and yellow gold-colored plating. A relatively compact diver at 40.6mm x 11.7mm, it’s still water resistant to 200m and meets ISO 6425 diver standards. It’s powered by the Cal. E168 with standard Eco-Drive accuracy of +/-15 seconds per month.

Citizen

Next is an Eco-Drive chronograph (Ref. AT2576-68E) in the same gray and gold-tone-plated steel as the diver. Its Cal. H504 chronograph movement is again accurate to within +/- 15 seconds per month, and its chrono can track events up to 60 minutes. Its case measures 42mm across and just 10.5mm thick, and it’s water resistant to 100m.

Rounding out the Light in Black collection is a striking take on the Citizen L (Ref. EW5636-55E). Its 21.5mm x 7.3mm case is in gray-plated stainless steel and is paired with a matching three-row bracelet. The dial features gold-tone hands and indices with an applied diamond at 12:00 and a gold-tone crown inset with a blue cabochon similar to Cartier’s crowns. Inside is the Cal. B035 movement, which again is accurate to within +/-15 seconds per month.

Citizen

Availability and pricing

The pricing and availability of Citizen’s Light in Black collection vary quite a bit.

The Attesa Satellite Wave GPS is both the rarest and the most expensive, with 1,900 examples priced at $2,195. Next is the Attesa Radio-Controlled, which gets 2,200 pieces and an SRP of $1,195.

The Promaster Dive gets a more robust run of 6,700 watches, and a far lower price tag at just $495. Even better is the Eco-Drive Chrono, which costs just $450 but is slightly more elusive with 6,000 worldwide examples. Lastly, the Citizen L is limited to $3,800 pieces and priced at $525.

Citizen

Citizen Eco-Drive Attesa Satellite Wave GPS Light in Black

Specs

Case Size	44.6mm
Movement	Citizen Eco-Drive Cal. F950 solar-powered quartz perpetual calendar world timer chronograph
Water Resistance	100m

• $2,195 at Citizen

Citizen

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Dive Light in Black

Specs

Case Size	40.6mm
Movement	Citizen Eco-Drive Cal. E168 solar quartz
Water Resistance	200m

• $495 at Citizen

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Honda and sister brand Acura recently revealed two new design concepts. Honda calls its version the Hybrid Sedan Prototype, and Acura’s is the Hybrid SUV Prototype.

While they’re pre-production examples, they’re also supposedly design studies. Both potentially preview the visual language for each brand and their next generation of vehicles.

Both automakers are at the point in their strategic lifecycles where they’re preparing to transition into a new generation of automobiles. But given their exterior styling direction, we’re not entirely sold on their appearances.

Picking up the pieces and changing direction

Honda

Honda and Acura are each in a bit of a pickle. After betting heavily on electric vehicles for the near-future strategy, both companies have been struggling to make a return on their investments.

Like many other automakers who tried to cash in on BEVs, both Honda and Acura cancelled their immediate electric ambitions to refocus on improving internal combustion tech. Now, both carmakers are betting on hybrid power.

Honda

In addition to the propulsion strategy change, Honda and Acura are also at a key transition point where they roll out a completely new range of vehicles. These two hybrid concepts will likely spearhead the new lineup.

While the two automakers are billing the cars as concepts, they do have a reputation for showcasing near-production-ready vehicles. Put another way, these prototypes could provide a true glimpse into what some next-gen models will look like.

Could this be the next-gen Civic or Accord?

Honda

Because of this, we wouldn’t be surprised if the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype serves as an immediate precursor to the next-gen Civic or Accord. Or, both.

The current eleventh-generation Accord just launched in 2023 and still feels fresh. But it’s actually roughly half-way through its typical series production lifecycle, which is around five to seven years.

Honda

Meaning, while a twelfth-gen Accord is likely a few years away, the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype could still provide early hints as to what we can expect. The same could be said about the Civic, which is likely to be the first in line for a next-gen overhaul.

The current eleventh-gen Civic has been with us since 2021 as a 2022 model-year car. And the Civic tends to last five to six years long before getting a new-gen.

Honda

Additionally, both the Civic and Accord incorporated fastback designs over their past two generations. Thus, it wouldn’t be surprising if the prototype foreshadowed the direction of the next-gen models.

Say hello to what’s likely the next-gen RDX

Acura

Another aging model is one of Acura’s best-sellers, the RDX compact SUV. The MDX recently took the superlative title as Acura discontinued the previous RDX just this year due to its age.

Which means a new model should be right around the corner. Acura introduced the third-gen RDX back in 2018 as a 2019 model-year vehicle. It’s most certainly overdue for an update, with the previous models lasting roughly six years.

Acura

Acura did previously mention a new, fourth-gen RDX was on the horizon. All roads point to the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype as being the forerunner.

Could this be enough to put Honda and Acura back on the map?

Honda

It may not seem like it on the surface, but Honda and Acura have been slipping. Even fans are noticing, saying the brands are resting a little too much on their laurels.

As mainstream carmakers in some of the automotive space’s most cutthroat segments, their rivalries have been fierce. And the competition keeps intensifying.

Acura

Part of the Honda-Acura allure has always been the eye-catching and logical designs. Some may not have aged well, but others left timeless impressions, such as the third-generation Acura TL and the eighth-generation Honda Accord.

But whether these designs are enough to give the two more of a competitive edge in the coming years has yet to be determined.

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Hamilton’s Khaki Navy collection is the aquatic little brother to the Khaki Field collection. Like many younger siblings, it has long lived in the shadows, cast in this case by arguably the most famous field watch of all time, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad watch.

A new batch of Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm references adds a sporty flair to the practical daily-wearing diver. It comes in four color schemes, including an eye-catching sefoam green with an extra detail on the dial.

Hamilton

Strictly speaking, the Khaki Navy Scuba is more of a skin diver. Its compact case offers only 100m of water resistance, compared to the 300m provided by the 43mm version and the whopping 1,000m boasted by the BelowZero.

But 100m is all you need if you’re not gearing up with a SCUBA tank and flippers. It’s an affordable, all-purpose diver that’s ideal for summer vacations and carefree daily wear.

The 40mm case remains unchanged, with a sloping crown guard and all. At 13mm thick, it isn’t the most compact skin diver, but the height allows for complex depth on the dial texture.

Hamilton

Inside the case is the same Hamilton Caliber H-10 automatic movement, a derivative of the Swatch Group’s Powermatic 80. It provides the corporate standard 80-hour power reserve and is equipped with a Nivachron balance spring.

Hit the waves

The dial arrangement is also familiar, except for the new textured dial plate, which adds visual intrigue. It is a solid stamped plate with a lacquered surface that creates a slight shimmer.

Hamilton

The combination of applied wedge and dot hour markers is not new to the Navy Scuba collection, but it is borrowed from the 43mm version and makes its debut on the 40mm dial.

The wavy dial is available in black and blue, both paired with matching aluminum dive bezels, and white with a blue bezel.

On three of the four references in this release, the hands and indices are metallic with white Super-LumiNova inserts, while they are blue on the white dial. Of course, the 24-hour military time track is still in place.

Its a steel

Three of the new wavy-dialed Khaki Navy Scuba references are classic divers. The black, blue and blue-and-white versions, each accented with red tips on the seconds hands, all come on a steel three-link bracelet with a folding clasp.

Hamilton

Of the three, only the black dial is also offered with a matching black rubber strap. I don’t know why Hamilton chose not to offer the other two on a blue or even a white rubber strap, but those can easily be picked up after market.

Seaing green

The clear standout of this new nautical launch is the black dial with seafoam green detailing. It matches the boldly colored Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm released in 2024, featuring a chapter ring that matches the rubber pin buckle strap.

Hamilton

This ocean-inspired shade of green is far more appealing than the yellow, orange and dark pink offered with the previous version. It also makes for the most endearing and vacation-ready Khaki Navy Scuba I’ve ever seen.

Availability and pricing

Hamilton’s new fleet of wavy-dial Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm skin divers is available now from Hamilton for $975, regardless of strap or color.

Hamilton

Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba

Specs

Case Size	40mm
Movement	Hamilton Caliber H-10 automatic
Water Resistance	100m

• $975 at Hamilton (Rubber Strap)
• $975 at Hamilton (Steel Bracelet)

For a premium, legacy silhouette beloved by European athletes and street style fans since 1975, Diadora’s Equipe has flown pretty under the radar here in the States.

Thanks to its new look, via a collaboration with London-based luxury brand JW Anderson, the Equipe might finally take center stage.

Diadora

Luxury legacy

While Diadora’s Equipe has deep roots in European culture, the Italian brand’s heritage-runner-turned-lifestyle-stunner is still getting its footing in the United States.

Those in the know can tout its build quality and comfort (I happen to own this pair and love them) but sales are far outpaced by competitors like The Three Stripes and The Swoosh. For now.

Diadora

JW Anderson gave the high-end shoe a bold new look, with four new colorways, co-branded elements and premium hardware and materials.

Crafted in Italy, the upper brings together lightweight textiles, leather and suede with signature JW Anderson touches on the laces, including a small medallion.

Diadora

Diadora

The slim silhouette features a swallowtail toe and heel-wrapping outsole, which give it a distinctive aesthetic and nod to its performance roots.

Each of the four color options (Green Night, Navy Peony, Empire Red and Princess Blue) are finished with stone wash and wax treatments, a classic Diadora touch that gives the shoe a vintage look without the wear.

Diadora

While the Equipe is already fairly pricey (the Equipe ’75 SW I own sits at $250) the limited-edition Equipe JW Anderson version takes things up a notch, ringing in at $470.

However, that high price tag doesn’t seem to stop folks from purchasing pairs at a prolific pace.

Of the four colorways, Navy Peony is already sold out, and the remaining three aren’t far behind, so act fast if you want in on this release.

Availability and pricing

The Equipe JW Anderson is available on Diadora’s website for $470, but be warned: this style is going fast.

Diadora

Diadora Equipe JW Anderson

• Shop Now

With CD sales rising these past couple of years, the preponderance of portable players is no longer as novel as it was back in 2024. Nevertheless, what continues to be a niche market has produced some remarkable examples that prove this renaissance might be more than just a trend.

Despite lossless streaming being introduced a few months back on Spotify, true audiophiles appreciate the consistency of a CD that doesn’t require an internet connection to listen to. There’s also the experience aspect; the intentionality of selecting an album and committing to hearing it through. That commitment is even more crucial when you’re taking your music outside the house.

Beams

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, legendary Japanese retail curator Beams has doubled down on physical media with a rad new edition of its Portable CD Player under the Beams Records label.

Without the bells and whistles

Last year, Beams decided it didn’t only want to sell portable units from the likes of km5 but could make its own just the same, and for much less. The eponymous Portable CD Player debuted with a transparent blue shell à la Y2K-era iMac computers. The design allows you to see the inner workings of the machine and also view the CD spinning inside, leaning into the experience of playing your disc.

Beams

Beams

Helping keep costs low, Beams opted out of Bluetooth connectivity. After all, if you’re going to listen to lossless audio, why degrade the quality via wireless monitors? The unit has a 3.5mm aux jack for plugging in your headphones for playback. It comes with a simple pair of earbuds, just in case you don’t have one handy.

Beams

Taking the analog theme even further, the CD player exclusively takes AA batteries, which means you can’t simply plug it in to recharge overnight. Likewise, you’ll only get 8 hours of playback, which is something you might want to consider.

Orange you glad?

The new edition swaps the blue shell for orange, which is inspired by the glowing sunset but is also highly evocative of Beams’ circular logo. 

Beams

Beams

Next to the small display on the side of the device, you’ll find playback options, including a program mode toggle. This lets you select repeat, shuffle and intro playback settings. 

Beams

We should also mention that gone are the days when brands are making their own proprietary technology. Considering the price, you can surmise that Beams also uses similar standardized transport mechanisms, laser assemblies and decoder boards as other CD player manufacturers. The magic here is in its presentation and dedication to nostalgia.

Availability and pricing

The Portable CD Player is now available from Beams’ Japanese site for ¥6,930 (~$44), which is about a third of the price of km5’s CP1.

Beams

Beams Clear Portable CD Player Orange

• $44 at Beams

When Ducati launched its Hypermotard 698 Mono back in 2024, the bike made for the brand’s first street-legal single-cylinder in over 50 years.

Not only that, but its debut also heralded the arrival of the most powerful one-pot motorcycle on the market. Suffice to say, then, that the 698 amounted to quite an addition to the Ducati Hypermotard range.

Ducati

Eager to keep the momentum going, Ducati just dropped a new variant of the road-going thumper that promises a more refined kind of appeal. Along with a stealthy visual makeover, it also brings some choice performance upgrades.

A stealthy single-cylinder hooligan

It’s called the Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera. In keeping with the name (Italian for black), it ditches Bologna’s typical bright hues in favor of a much more shadowy look. 

Ducati

Accordingly, this Hyper keeps its incorporation of Ducati Red to just a few accents. Apart from a stripe on the front headlight, the wheels, frame and tank lettering are the only other areas that break up the total black digs.

Thankfully, though, the Nera isn’t just a colorway. As part of the package, Ducati is also treating the Hypermotard 698 Mono to some black-finished Termignoni silencers. Along with giving the bike a cleaner look, they bring a more polished sound.

Ducati

Some pipes are bound to be a boon for anyone with a restless throttle hand, but the exhaust isn’t even the most impactful change. Like its graffiti-clad RVE counterpart, Ducati’s Nera-designated 698 Mono brings an up-and-down quickshifter.

In case you haven’t had the benefit of using one (make sure to change that), it’s akin to riding on easy mode. Moreover, with a supermoto like the Hypermotard, clutchless gearchanges give you an absolute b-road destroyer.

Ducati

Building on a potent foundation

While the rest of the Nera is consistent with other Monos in the Hyper range, the good news is that Ducati’s offering already makes for quite the compelling motorcycle.

For one, the brand bills the 698’s Superquadro Mono as the “most sophisticated and highest-performing road-going single-cylinder engine ever built.” Essentially a halved 1299 Panigale v-twin, it makes 77.5 horsepower, revs to 10,250 rpm and incorporates a massive 116mm piston along with trick Desmodromic valve timing.

Ducati

What’s more, because of touches like its trellis frame, double-sided swingarm and aluminum-flanged brake discs, the bike is svelte. Ducati touts a wet weight of 333 pounds, though you will need to gas it up to ride.

Taken together, these attributes already make for a license-losing ride. In combination with Ducati’s electronic package, then, they’re bound to inspire some hooligan behavior.

That’s because, beyond features such as Ducati Traction Control and Engine Brake Control, the Hypermotard 698 Mono (Nera) brings advanced electronic aids like ABS Cornering, Ducati Power Launch and Ducati Wheelie Control.

Ducati

As if that wasn’t enough, an optional race exhaust activates an additional Wheelie Assist. Just as it sounds, it helps riders keep the bike pointed skyward by regulating its angle through torque delivery.

Availability and pricing

The Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera will be hitting dealerships beginning in June 2026. Pricing will start at $14,395, above the standard model but slightly less than the RVE.

Ducati

Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera

• $14,395 at Ducati

Vosteed’s Psyop, a collaboration with TuffKnives, is among the brand’s most popular offerings. And that makes it the perfect platform for continued experimentation, as it gives fans something new and exciting to look forward to.

The latest in this ongoing series is the Vosteed Psyop Current Micarta, which sees that very EDC knife get a trio of new handle treatments that reimagine a tried-and-true material.

Vosteed

Three’s company

Technically speaking, this new release comprises three different options. But it’s not quite that simple. Yes, there are three versions to choose from, but there’s an extra layer of depth.

This is because the material used for these Psyops is Current Micarta (from a company called Current Composites, out of East Haven, Connecticut). It’s a linen-and-resin-based composite just like traditional Micarta, but it gets some noteworthy upgrades and tweaks.

Vosteed

For starters, it’s more refined in its texture. It also gets an upgrade to its overall grip, which is great because Micarta was already among the best grippy materials. And yet it still has that same unmistakable vibe, both in touch and appearance.

But the appearance is the other bit. Because this micarta is made with variable layers and colors, no two knives feature the same pattern. Every single one is unique. As I said, there are three options to choose from, but the possibilities are actually sort of infinite.

(As a side note, the Brown-Black Stonewash option has another hidden feature: it glows in the dark.)

Vosteed

One of a kind

As exciting as these new handle treatments are, they’re hardly the only things to get excited about with these knives.

Take the blade, for example. All three knives get a drop-point blade crafted from Elmax super steel, renowned for its superior edge retention, exceptional toughness, high corrosion resistance and relatively simple care. Put plainly, this steel performs magnificently.

The Psyop also has dual deployment options: a front flipper and a thumb hole, both ambidextrous. It also gets a convenient yet strong and reliable button lock, a lanyard hole and a reversible pocket clip.

In simple terms, this knife is a tour de force of EDC utility, upscale styling and durable longevity. This is the kind of knife that will, with the right care (and really not much), last for a lifetime of use.

Vosteed

Vosteed

Availability and pricing

All three Vosteed Psyop Current Micarta knives are now available on the brand’s site for $169 or $179, depending on the configuration.

Vosteed

Vosteed Psyop Current Micarta

• Starts at $169

The traditional painter’s chore coat is deeply rooted in utilitarian design, but modern versions toe the line between workwear and everyday staples built for the long haul. 

That interplay of rugged durability and refined style is on full display in Carhartt’s latest release, a high-end painter’s chore coat highlighting the brand’s deep heritage and commitment to quality. 

Carhartt

Rugged roots

Carhartt’s Crafted Series, which the brand launched in 2025, is a special-edition, premium workwear line that blends the brand’s deep heritage with heavy-duty, refined materials and reinforced construction.

The latest entry to the quality-focused label is the Drill Painter Chore Coat, inspired by the brand’s original version from over a century ago, designed for both the job and daily wear.

Carhartt

The Drill Painter Chore Coat is built with a durable 9-ounce, 100 percent cotton drill fabric that breaks in over time, developing its own patina and fit. The loose fit and two-sleeve construction is designed with mobility in mind, and also makes for an easy layering option.

Carhartt

Carhartt

Like any painter’s chore coat worth its salt, this edition includes a wide variety of pockets, perfect for brushes, carpenter pencils and other small tools … or your EDC loadout.

True to the Crafted Series’ elite standards, the lined front pockets are reinforced for the long haul, alongside the triple-needle stitching across the garment and the extra arm seams.

Carhartt

The metal hardware drives home the heritage roots of this undyed jacket.

As a finishing touch, the buttons feature legacy branding, and there’s a special-edition, archive-inspired Carhartt button on the secured right chest pocket.

Availability and pricing

The Crafted Series Drill Painter Chore Coat is available now on Carhartt’s website, retailing for $150.

Carhartt

Carhartt Crafted Series Drill Painter Chore Coat

• Shop Now

For a brand generally known for impeccably engineered, supremely reliable two-wheelers, BMW Motorrad isn’t afraid to take bold swings with its concept bikes.

Still, the latest blue sky silhouette from the revered German brand is pretty bonkers even by their standards. 

BMW Motorrad

Set for a public reveal at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Italy’s Lake Como this weekend, the Vision K18 is arguably the brand’s most jaw-dropping bike.

Its surprisingly engine-driven design also provides a pretty interesting window into how the brand thinks these days.

They’ve got your six

The brand’s press release about the bike is probably best digested with the help of some mind-altering substances, but a couple of early sentences nicely lay the groundwork for the unicorn gracing the images on this page: 

“The Vision K18 embodies BMW Motorrad’s ambition to combine technical excellence with emotional appeal, making performance not only measurable but also visibly tangible.

At the same time, it positions the inline six-cylinder as part of BMW DNA and sends a clear signal of pioneering spirit: greater radicality and sharper character down to the finest detail – as inspiration for future series-production solutions.” 

BMW Motorrad

I was personally pretty stoked to read that, because it points to this concept actually carrying over into some production bikes, though it’s very unlikely any will look quite like this particular silver surfer.

It’s also reflective of the brand’s clear love for this particular engine, an emotion that carries through much of the bike. 

BMW Motorrad

Getting down to brass tacks, the beating heart is a 1,800cc inline six-cylinder, a high-powered beast whose dimensions dictate the stretched profile of the K18, which also takes cues from the legendary Concorde supersonic airline, another vehicle that appeared to be in motion even when it wasn’t.

BMW’s existing six-cylinder bikes reside in the long-haul touring category, and this silhouette follows along those lines (though based on its lack of actual on-board storage, it’s as much a cruiser as it is a tourer or a bagger, IMHO).

BMW Motorrad

Together with the aircraft inspiration, that foundation translates to large body surfaces and complex, visible tech with meticulous cut-outs and openings.

The inline-six tribute manifests in the repetition of that number: hence the bike has six intakes, six LED headlights and, most stunning of all, six spaghetti-like tailpipes, which reside in futuristic-looking “saddlebags” on either side of the rear wheel.

The K18 also features hand-formed body parts, a hydraulically lowerable suspension and seamless aluminum surfaces interplaying with lavish forged carbon.

BMW Motorrad

The brand’s description of the bike references “the heat of speed,” a guiding principle that manifests in what it calls a “deliberately employed heat-haze effect.”

This smoky notion presumably explains another significant feature: the actively cooled headlight.

Availability and pricing

The BMW Motorrad is a one-off, but if you happen to be anywhere near Lake Como this weekend, perhaps you can at least get a look at it.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad Vision K18

• Learn More

Timex has a long relationship with the Peanuts gang, dating back to the 1960s when Snoopy and company were making their biggest impact on pop culture through projects like their now-iconic holiday TV specials and forming a relationship with NASA.

Today, Timex still produces a wider variety of Snoopy watches than any other brand, with everything from quartz chronographs to divers to digital watches.

But as far as I’m concerned, the best Snoopy watches coming out of Timex are those that resurrect a cool and quirky feature from vintage watches, like the new Peanuts x Timex Marlin Automatic Space.

Timex

Float on

In recent years, Timex has brought back the mid-century “mystery dial” in the form of several Snoopy watches. Mystery dials replace one or more of their hands with a marking on a transperent disc, creating an illusion that looks as if the hands are floating over the dial.

Timex has used mystery dials with floating second hands in several Peanuts-themed Marlin Automatics, which give the impression that the seconds hand is floating around the dial thanks to the automatic movement’s clean sweep. We’ve seen this effect with Snoopy smacking a tennis ball, kicking a soccer ball and chasing his pal Woodstock.

But the newest mystery dial from Timex is a bit more ambitious, if also a bit less practical. Rather than a single seconds hand, the Peanuts x Timex Marlin Automatic Space features a trio of Peanuts characters as astronauts printed on a transparent disc.

Timex

Against a static space ship dial featuring Lucy and Snoopy as astronauts, Charlie Brown, Peppermint Patty and Franklin all float around them in zero gravity, making their way around the dial. All five characters are dressed in modern orange astronaut uniforms, reminiscent of those worn by the Artemis II crew.

Powering the floating astronauts is a Japan-made Miyota Calibre 8215 automatic movement, which has 21 jewels, beats at 4Hz, has a power reserve of 40 hours and has a date complication at 3:00. It’s visible behind a display caseback decorated with a printing of the Peanuts gang.

Timex

The mostly polished 40mm stainless steel case is the same one you’ll find on other Marlin Automatics and is heavily mid-century inspired, as is the sunbrushed silver dial that serves as the background for our space station. The thin pencil hands, applied stick indices and highly domed acrylic crystal add to the retro vibes.

The watch is paired with a sustainably produced black leather strap affixed with quick-release spring bars and secured with a Timex-signed pin buckle in stainless steel.

Availability and pricing

I generally like Timex’s Snoopy watches, and this may be the coolest one I’ve seen yet. I’m always a sucker for a mystery dial’s floating effect, and the application here of making three Peanuts characters float around the dial is just so clever and fun. Plus, it’s dropping at a time when excitement around space travel is the highest it’s been in decades, so it feels particularly culturally relevant.

The Timex x Peanuts Marlin Automatic Space is currently available for preorder on Timex’s website, where it is priced at $339. Given the popularity of Timex’s previous Snoopy mystery dials, and the lasting hype around Artemis II, I expect this to sell out quickly.

Timex

Timex x Peanuts Marlin Automatic Space

Specs

Case Size	40mm
Movement	Miyota Cal. 8215 automatic
Water Resistance	50m

• $339 at Timex

Seiko enjoys one of the most expansive and dedicated followings of any watchmaker, yet its dressy offerings remain relatively underappreciated.

The elevated Presage Classic Series is overshadowed by its tool watch counterparts in the Prospex and Seiko 5 Sports collections, but it offers the same value and daily-wearing appeal. Two new releases in Seiko’s 145th Anniversary series exemplify what makes the brand’s affordable dress watches so appealing.

Seiko

The newest additions to the Presage Classic Series fall into two distinct price categories, and both celebrate the Japanese watchmaker’s birthday with “Seiko Blue,” a distinct hue that became synonymous with the brand in the 1960s.

The pricier option features an Arita porcelain dial and debuts a new case design, while the more affordable alternative is an update to the 36mm silk dial Presage Classic introduced in late 2025.

A taste of luxury

Starting from the top, the Presage Classic HCC007 features an Artia porcelain dial with a rich “Seiko Blue” glaze forming a sunburst sector pattern.

Seiko

This isn’t the first time the traditional Japanese craft has appeared on a Seiko dial, but it is certainly the most elevated execution yet. The intricate shading and deep hues are reminiscent of porcelain dials from Credor, Seiko’s luxury sister brand.

The simple time-only dial layout features applied dash indices, polished leaf hour and minute hands and a needle seconds hand with a crescent-tipped counterbalance. A small 60-minute track appears on a cobalt blue rehaut.

Seiko

The 40mm stainless steel case debuts a new shape for Seiko, with exaggerated curves on the bezel and lugs to complement the porcelain dial. It comes on an indigo blue pebble grain leather strap with a steel folding clasp.

Along with the ornate dial, a good deal of the price comes from the Caliber 6R51 automatic movement powering this elegant dress watch. It beats at 3Hz, provides a 72-hour power reserve and features a decorated rotor, displayed through a sapphire exhibition caseback.

Silky smooth

Then there’s the Presage Classic HCC004, a beautiful new iteration of what might be the best daily-wearing dress watch $1,000 can buy.

“Seiko Blue” is represented on the alpha hands and applied dash hour markers this time. They sit atop a silvery-white version of Seiko’s radial silk dial texture with no date to disrupt the balance and symmetry.

Seiko

It is capped with a dual-curve sapphire crystal that accentuates the dial’s radiant pattern. The dial is framed by a fluted steel bezel that has only appeared once before on this Presage Classic model.

The 36mm stainless steel case has a satin-brushed finish and a signed, fluted crown. It comes on a navy blue pebble grain leather strap with a steel folding clasp.

Seiko

Despite being significantly more affordable, this Presage Classic is powered by the same movement as its more luxurious companion, the Caliber 6R51. It is certainly one of the best automatic movements available in a $1,000 watch.

Availability and pricing

It seems like Seiko is celebrating some anniversary every year, but regardless of the occasion, these are two of the best Presage dress watches the brand has released in a long time. Both offer exceptional value: one for the elegance of its dial, the other for pure wearability.

The porcelain-dial Presage Classic HCC007 will be available in July 2026 for $1,700 and limited to 1,500 pieces, while the silver-dial Presage Classic HCC004 will be available in June 2026 for $1,000 and limited to 2,500 pieces.

Seiko

Seiko Presage Classic HCC007

Specs

Case Size	40mm
Movement	Seiko Caliber 6R51 automatic
Water Resistance	30m

• $1,700 at Seiko

Seiko

Seiko Presage Classic HCC004

Specs

Case Size	36mm
Movement	Seiko Caliber 6R51 automatic
Water Resistance	100m

• $1,000 at Seiko

The 1995-96 NBA season was special for Michael Jordan.

That year, His Airness completed his return to professional basketball with a championship win, beating the Seattle Supersonics in six games. It was his and the Chicago Bulls’ fourth ring, but this time around, there was some extra weight behind the glorious victory.

Nike

With its latest edition of the Air Jordan 3s, Nike aims to capture the emotion behind that comeback, while paying tribute to the fathers of the world in the most subtle way. 

Call it a comeback

After completing his three-peat in ‘93, Jordan decided to retire from the sport to pursue a career in baseball. It was head-scratching at the time, since MJ was still in his prime and wasn’t nearly as dominant in the batter’s box. But if you knew anything about his relationship with his father (or at the very least watched Space Jam), you’d understand why he lost the will to play. 

Nike

James R. Jordan Sr. died in July 1993, compelling Michael to hang up his sneakers. Luckily, what was a major punchline at the time quickly turned into a mere cultural curio as time went on, owing to how earth-shattering his return to the court was.

The 1995-’96 season saw MJ win league MVP and the Bulls finish with a 72-10 record, which had never been done before (the record has since been broken by the Golden State Warriors) — punctuated by a Finals win on June 16. It was Father’s Day, and marked the first title Jordan won following his dad’s death.

Nike

Nike

The emotional celebration found its way back to the Bulls’ locker room at the United Center in Chicago, where Michael collapsed to the floor, brought to tears while clutching the game ball. The image has been immortalized in photographs of that evening, and now in a pair of shoes.

Inside basketball

At first glance, these new Jordan high-tops don’t look all that different from your standard AJ3, with classic Bulls colors. Sail White is used for most of the uppers, accented in anthracite and University Red. However, there’s one major change.

Nike

Dubbed “World’s Best,” this special iteration of the sneaker puts that locker room carpet pattern and color on the heel and forefoot, replacing the typical elephant pattern the sneakers have been known for since their 1988 debut. Completing the theme, large “WORLD’S BEST” text is embroidered in gold on the inside of the tongue.

Availability and pricing

These Air Jordan 3s drop May 16 at 10 a.m. ET from Nike’s SNKRS app for $215, and will likely move very quickly. Aside from men’s sizes, the sneakers will also come out in kid and toddler sizes.

Nike

Nike Air Jordan 3 “World’s Best”

• $215 at Nike

Ever heard of the Lada Niva? If you haven’t, that’s okay. You’ve probably seen one in passing, either on the big screen or making a rare appearance at a car show.

It’s an old-school Soviet-era off-roader and one of Russia’s longest-running automotive nameplates. You’ve likely never heard of it, because we’re not exactly the primary target market for Russian automobiles, for, well, reasons.

But despite its limited availability, the Lada Niva is actually one of the world’s best-kept off-roading secrets. And, it may be getting its first major update in decades.

A communist legend stuck in time

AvtoVAZ

In 1977, at the height of the U.S.S.R., state-owned AvtoVAZ, one of the Soviet Republic’s oldest automotive manufacturers, introduced the Lada Niva. It was an off-roader designed specifically for the country’s rural citizens.

Thus, it was built with the region’s treacherous and desolate (read: nonexistent) roads in mind. Because AvtoVAZ engineered the Lada Niva to take on the Soviet wilderness, it immediately gained notoriety for its incredible off-roading capabilities.

AvtoVAZ

Despite its Soviet roots, which usually means it’s been assembled by a bunch of blokes in a shed, the Lada Niva miraculously earned a reputation for its durability and reliability. This was thanks to its rugged and simple construction.

The Lada Niva has also become an icon because it’s a time capsule stuck in a bygone era. Although originally built specifically for the Russian people, the Lada Niva went beyond its regional borders and sold wherever there was a strong Soviet political and economic influence.

TTTNIS via WikiCommons

This allowed the Lada Niva to penetrate markets throughout Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and even South and Central America. Thus, its notoriety has expanded beyond the clutches of Russia’s tightly controlled culture.

The OG GOAT of the four-wheeling world

As unassuming as the Lada Niva might seem, it was a masterful piece of innovation, and it was actually the world’s first mass-produced off-road vehicle with a car-like unibody. That technically makes it the predecessor to today’s modern crossover SUV.

It’s also the longest-running production light off-road vehicle that still retains its original design. If you live in a region where Ladas are available, you can still get an old-fashioned Niva. Brand, spankin’ new.

But, because the design is almost a half-century old, it’s archaic and unequipped to handle today’s regulatory requirements. This is why AvtoVAZ is reportedly gearing up to build a completely new Niva.

Next-Gen Lada Niva Patent Filings

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The confirmation comes courtesy of new patent filings with Russia’s intellectual property office. A few years ago, AvtoVAZ partnered up with France’s Renault for a joint venture on a mission to revamp the Niva.

The agreement ended in 2022, bringing the next-gen design’s development to a complete halt. Now, however, the effort appears to be resuming, as AvtoVAZ’s documents prove that the Niva hasn’t been forgotten.

A complete overhaul that could upset purists

AvtoVAZ

The filings reveal a complete Niva overhaul, which seems to take inspiration directly from the Lada Niva VISION Concept from 2021. There isn’t much additional information.

This is wholly representative of the Russian state’s tight grasp on its intellectual property. But the next-gen Niva could be going down a similarly polarizing path as the Land Rover Defender.

Like the Defender, fans appreciate the OG Niva for its original, unfettered design. It has a huge cult following, all curated around its tried, tested and true old-school formula.

AvtoVAZ

When Land Rover began finalizing its plans to overhaul the Defender, hardcore enthusiasts burst into uproar. Purists thought the Defender’s new design wouldn’t do the original model justice.

Fans might say the same for the Niva. But that’s ultimately down to whether AvtoVAZ can come through and actually execute a next-gen model (even after repeated developmental snags).

AvtoVAZ has produced newer, more modern variants of the Niva, as well as newer models, all based on newer Dacia models. However, none have lived up to the reputation of the OG Niva.

AvtoVAZ

Dacia is Romania’s largest carmaker and is still in partnership with AvtoVAZ, which is a remnant of its joint venture with Renault. But they never sold in the US and Canada, officially, and remain off-limits.

Some hardcore fans imported OG Lada Nivas under the 25-year-old import rule, presuming the examples grey-marketed were of age to qualify. Otherwise, Ladas have essentially been inaccessible to Americans.

The story will likely be the same for the new Lada Niva. However, that still won’t prevent us from appreciating and lusting over them from across the pond.

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Wharfedale introduced its Heritage series in 2012. It consists of reimagined versions of its classic loudspeakers from the 1960s and 1970s. At the time of writing, there are eight individual loudspeakers in this Heritage series.

Just last month, the British audio maker revealed an outlier to the series in the Heritage Centre, as it isn’t a new version of an old loudspeaker.

Instead, it’s a center-channel speaker designed to match the Denton (bookshelf speakers) and Linton (standmount speakers), both are in the Heritage series, so that their owners can build out their stereo system into a 3.1- or 5.1-channel home theater system.

Fast forward a month, and Wharfedale has introduced a ninth addition to its Heritage series. And it gets back to the range’s tried-and-true formula.

Wharfedale Denton 1S

Wharfedale

The Denton 1S is a pair of passive bookshelf speakers and the latest addition to the company’s Heritage series. It’s a reimagined version of the company’s original Denton 1, which was released in 1974.

Like the originals, the Denton 1S are bookshelf speakers with a modern design (curved cabinets) and a unique coaxial driver, which positions the tweeter inside the mid-woofer unit, making it appear like a single driver. (KEF is probably most famous for its coaxial driver designs.)

Wharfedale

Wharfedale

Wharfedale claims that the Denton 1S is not a simple revival of an older loudspeaker, but “a clean-sheet reinterpretation of what a compact, modern hi-fi loudspeaker can be.” Basically, even though it looks similar to its predecessor, it’s been re-engineered from the ground up.

It features a newly developed two-way coaxial driver that places a 25mm silk-dome tweeter inside a 165mm polypropylene mid-woofer unit. Both drivers radiate from a single acoustic center, which helps the Denton 1S deliver an accurate sound.

According to the brand, the result “is a remarkably unified presentation with stable stereo imaging, a wide, immersive soundstage and consistent tonal balance across a broad listening area.”

Wharfedale

Wharfedale

The Denton 1S is a fairly compact standmount speaker (or average-sized bookshelf speaker) with a bass reflex enclosure. But despite its size, it promises to deliver impressively deep bass: down to 45Hz (-6dB).

The speakers have an 88dB sensitivity and an 8 ohm nominal impedance, meaning they should be easy to drive by a wide range of amplifiers. According to the brand, this makes them a “flexible partner for both classic hi-fi systems and modern integrated amplifiers.”

As for looks, each Denton 1S features a curved, contemporary cabinet design with retro-inspired badging. They’re available in three matte paint finishes: black, white and blue. And each pair comes with detachable cloth grilles.

Wharfedale

Wharfedale

Availability and pricing

The Wharfedale Denton 1S are available to order now from the company’s website. They’re expected to start shipping later this month.

A pair costs $999.

Wharfedale

Wharfedale Denton 1S

• $999 at Wharfedale USA (Pair)

Welcome to “Today in Gear,” your daily snapshot of the most important releases in style, watches, tech, motoring, fitness, home and the outdoors.

Today in Gear: The most important news in the product world, independently curated by our editors. Catch up on other key releases across all the topics you care about.

MV Agusta

MV Agusta Brutale 1000 ABT

In celebration of its 130th anniversary, legendary German tuner and Audi specialist ABT Sportsline worked with MV Agusta to create a limited-run, special-edition hypernaked based on the Brutale 1000. Suffice to say, it’s a bike that’s as head-turning as it is potent in performance. Around the outside, you’ll find no fewer than 19 different components comprised of carbon fiber, and it also brings eye-catching touches like a turbofan-inspired rear wheel cover and a hex-stitched Alcantara saddle. However, with as much as 208 horsepower on tap when equipped with the Racing Kit and Arrow exhaust, it’s far from just a looker. Only 130 of these elusive beauties have been announced for production.

• Learn More

Mack Weldon

Mack Weldon ACE Cargo Sweatshort

The beloved basics brand’s classic sweat shorts level up with the introduction of smart cargo pockets that fly pretty under the radar until you need them. Of course all the traditional coveted traits are retained, including super-soft micro-brushed French terry fabric, a relaxed fit and a just-a-bit-above-the-knee 9-inch inseam.

• Shop Now

Huckberry

Huckberry x Danner Wallowa Sandal

Danner has teamed up with Huckberry and Mossy Oak to craft an exclusive version of the former brand’s Wallowa hiking sandal. That means its straps get an iconic Mossy Oak Bottomland camo colorway that helps this sandal stand out among its peers. And yet, it still offers the same top-notch performance, boasting durable nylon for its straps, a comfortable contoured footbed and, most crucially, a treaded Vibram outsole. It can even be recrafted at Danner’s stores, should you wear them out.

• Shop Now

Cometeer

Cometeer The World Mug Collection

As part of the lead-up to the World Cup, Cometeer has created a tournament of its own in a kit called “The World Mug.” The kit contains 32 of the brand’s flash-frozen brewed coffee capsules, two each from 16 different countries around the world. The capsules are set up like a tournament, where you’re meant to compare flavors and decide which coffees move on. You can vote for your winners in the Cometeer app and track your progress, and the kit also includes a printed bracket for old-fashioned tracking. The limited-edition kit is available to preorder now for $99 (or $79 for first-time customers and subscribers), and will begin shipping on May 18.

• Shop Now

On

On LightSpray Cloudmonster Loewe

LOEWE and On’s latest collaboration is anchored by the innovative Lightspray Cloudmonster, On’s revolutionary, ultra-lightweight, laceless running shoe with an upper constructed by robots. The collaborative version of the long-run super trainer comes in an all-white colorway with silver Loewe and On branding. Each shoe includes three brightly-colored LightSpray socks, in Fluo Yellow, Fluo Green and Teal. This isn’t just a fun add-on; the socks are specifically paired with the silhouette to show off its hyper-minimal upper construction and offer multiple looks. The luxury partnership bumps the price of the super shoe to a staggering $990. The model is only available at select retail locations.

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If you’ve not yet heard of Vero Engineering, it’s high time to get the cult-favorite, award-winning brand’s name on your tongue. This outfit makes some of the best minimalist EDC knives and tools on the market at the moment.

And the proof is in their sales: the brand’s gear sells out incredibly fast whenever it drops.

That’s what makes the return of the brand’s beloved Vero Nova so special. If you, like me, fawn over magnificently executed minimalist EDC knives, this is a rare opportunity.

Vero Engineering

Everything you need, nothing you don’t

So, what makes the Nova special? For starters, it’s the first Vero Engineering knife to feature “a large bellied, 3.65″ drop point M390 steel blade.”

That alone is noteworthy, as this Böhler-made steel is an outstanding high-performance material that stands among the best super steels on the market today. Some people have even called it “grail” steel, and I wouldn’t necessarily argue with that.

Vero Engineering

It offers an exceptional balance of corrosion resistance, extreme edge retention and rock-solid hardness. And yet it’s also relatively easy to care for.

The blade shape is also remarkably versatile, making it suitable for both precision cuts and larger jobs alike.

While four of the five available versions of the knife come with M390, there’s also a special edition with eye-catching Damasteel.

Vero Engineering

Maximal minimalism

The other side of the knife, the handle, is definitely no slouch, either.

On all five editions, it’s crafted from solid titanium, although there are different finishes (especially the blacked-out version).

It also features minimal hardware, offering an extremely clean appearance, while still offering solid ergonomics.

Vero Engineering

As far as locks go, this one is about as classic and robust as they come: it gets an integrated frame lock. And opposite that, there’s a deep-carry pocket clip for easy, discreet hauling.

The whole knife measures 8.29 inches, with a 3.65-inch blade. And it weighs 5.7 ounces.

Vero Engineering

Availability and pricing

The Vero Nova is available on the brand’s official site right now, starting at $325.

Vero Engineering

Vero Engineering Nova

• Starts at $325

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There’s a reason Santa Maria-style grilling has endured for generations: cooking over live fire is virtually human nature.

Now Weber is betting that more backyard cooks are ready to embrace one of America’s oldest barbecue traditions with its first-ever Santa Maria-style grill.

Weber

The new cooker debuts this week at the 2026 Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, where Weber’s own Dustin Green will use one to go up against the world’s top open-fire cooks.

“Cooking over live fire is one of the oldest and most expressive forms of grilling,” Green says. “With this launch, we’re bringing that experience to more people without compromising the performance that defines it.”

Weber

Weber

At the center of the setup is a classic wheel-and-pulley adjustable grate system, allowing users to raise or lower the cooking surface from 2 to 27 inches above the fire.

In other words: precise control over searing, roasting and slower cooks.

Weber

Weber

Weber also built the grill around versatility. A firebrick-lined cookbox and heavy-duty stainless-steel construction give it the feel of a serious live-fire rig without drifting into custom-built price territory.

In a market crowded with smart grills, electric grills, griddles, multicookers and pellet smokers, Weber’s latest release feels refreshingly analog.

Weber

Availability and pricing

Soft launching at the 2026 Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, the Weber Live-Fire Grill will be available in early 2027 for $899.

Weber

Weber Live-Fire Grill

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Nameplates like Ford Mustang and Dodge Charger often command a lot of attention in classic muscle car circles, but they’re a few among many. From obscure AMCs and stately Oldsmobiles to powerful Pontiacs and slippery Mercurys, the niche is a cornucopia of variety.

However, even badges that have fallen by the wayside are comparatively well-known when you count some of the forbidden fruit sold overseas. A lot of the time, we enthusiasts in the United States (thankfully) don’t even realize what we’re missing out on.

GM Brazil

If you’re curious about what the rest of the world has to offer, GM’s latest revivals are bound to tickle your interest. As part of an ongoing restomod effort, Chevrolet Brazil just served up a pair of sweet ‘70s classics that most North American classic car fans might not have ever heard of.

A pair of eye-catching coupes

Those being a yellow 1976 Opala SS and a green 1979 Opala SS, picked, naturally, as an homage to the national flag. 

The little couple is an important Chevrolet for the Brazilian market, based on the German Opel Commodore but reimagined with more muscle-like styling and performance. GM launched the Opala in 1968 and kept it in production through 1992.

Accordingly, the Chevrolet Vintage team made these restomods as tasteful as they come. Rather than doing away with the original identity of the model, they introduced tasteful enhancements to make them more modern in manners.

Along with swapping in a set of Bilstein shocks, this also meant refining the steering, upgrading the disc brakes and fitting the rebuilt 4.1-liter inline-sixes with some FuelTech electronic fuel injection. Manual enthusiasts will be happy to know they each received five-speed Tremec gearboxes, too.

GM Brazil

What’s more, Chevrolet Vintage treated both Opalas to some interior upgrades. Three-point seatbelts bring added security up front, while a LED dash, a Bluetooth radio, A/C and power steering all make them more fit for daily driver material.

Rounded out by some 15-inch alloy wheels, fresh leather upholstery and Lotse sports steering wheels, they’re made only better by touches like NOS trim and door handles, as well as some period-correct tinted glass. Classic yet refreshed, they amount to some evocative vehicles. 

GM Brazil

Chevrolet Brazil’s vintage revival

Unsurprisingly, they each fetched a hefty sum when they crossed the block during a recent auction at the Carde Museum in Campos do Jordão.

The green car drew more than 25 bids, while its yellow counterpart bettered it with at least 30. With each Opala closing at around $102,000, they cleared approximately $204,000 combined, as reported by Carscoops.

And here’s the thing: if you think those are cool, wait until you get a load of the 2004 S10 Rally. Chevrolet Brazil spent months locating it, as it’s a pickup that was never offered to the public.

GM Brazil

Rather, it was a competition-bred model developed specifically for the demands of grueling off-road races such as the Rally dos Sertões. 

In keeping with its Opala counterparts, it too received a hero’s treatment. Fully restored through the Vintage program, the team preserved key race enhancements in the form of its roll cage, chassis reinforcements and tuned 2.8-liter turbodiesel. 

However, they also made some tweaks, like dialing back the engine’s torque curve to make it more manageable outside of high-strung competition environments. Perhaps it’s because of this added drivability that it also did well at auction, netting roughly $92,000.

GM Brazil

More to come

Before these three vehicles, GM Brazil’s Chevrolet Vintage division whipped up an Omega. With a total of 10 such projects planned altogether, there’s still more of these exotic Brazilian specials destined for the restomod treatment yet.

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Seiko is not the company’s original name, and it didn’t start out making watches. In 1881, Kintaro Hattori opened a shop in Tokyo simply called K. Hattori, and it wasn’t until 1913 that he produced Japan’s first wristwatch.

A series of watches is being released to celebrate 145 years of the brand that became Seiko. Of course, two divers are included, both accented with a particular shade of blue pulled from deep in the brand’s archive.

Seiko

The 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 and Prospex “Samurai” HBB001 use essentially the same color scheme. Both have stainless steel cases and bracelets, housing silver dials with sunburst brushing.

In both cases, the uniform metallic appearance is broken up by bezels decorated in a distinctive shade of blue that became synonymous with Seiko in the 1960s. The deep shade of royal blue, which is perfectly suited for an aquatic tool watch, also appears on each watch’s seconds hand.

The infinitely wearable color scheme, offered in two different price tiers, is sure to be an instant classic among the brand’s cult following.

The deep blue

The pricer and better-equipped of this anniversary duo is the 1965 Heritage Diver. While the 62MAS, Seiko’s first official dive watch, was originally released in black, it is a contemporary of the watches that established “Seiko Blue,” and is a fitting canvas for the color.

Seiko

This special rendition features a “Seiko Blue” aluminum bezel insert that creates a metallic shine, and the 60-minute fully-graduated countdown track is composed of exposed metal. The triangle pip is fitted with a lume pearl.

A “Seiko Blue” seconds hand is set against a fully metallic dial, including a brushed hour hand, minute hand and applied hour marker frames. The hands and indices hold white Lumibrite inserts, and the dial is capped with an AR-coated curved sapphire crystal.

Aside from the new color scheme, this watch has all the standard 1965 Heritage Diver specs. The 40mm brushed stainless steel case comes on a matching three-link bracelet, equipped with a folding clasp featuring a sliding diver extension.

Seiko

This revival diver offers 300m water resistance, but where it really separates itself from its more affordable companion is the movement. It’s powered by a Seiko 6R55 automatic movement, which beats at 3Hz and provides a 72-hour power reserve.

The way of the samurai

The other diver decorated in “Seiko Blue” is the brand’s best aquatic option under $1,000. Affectionately known as the “Samurai” for over a decade, the current design was introduced in 2024 with a smaller 42mm case and a narrower arrowhead hour hand.

Seiko

It follows the same color scheme, with a silver sunburst dial topped with metallic hour markers and hands, save for a “Seiko Blue” seconds hand. The bezel insert is also aluminum, but the brand’s signature color only goes three-quarters of the way around, leaving a contrasting silver 15-minute segment.

The “Samurai” offers 200m of water resistance, doubling that of the Seiko 5 Sports collection, thanks to a sizable knurled screw-down crown and hardlex crystal. It comes on a similar three-link steel bracelet, but there is no sliding extension in the clasp.

Seiko

What makes this fully capable dive watch so affordable is Seiko’s go-to workhorse automatic movement, the Caliber 4R35. It beats at 3Hz and has a 41-hour power reserve. As one of the most abundant automatic movements on the market, it is cheap and easy to service and fix.

Availability and pricing

Seiko offers plenty of color schemes in both the 1965 Heritage Diver and the “Samurai,” but I haven’t come across many as charming and versatile as this anniversary “Seiko Blue” motif. And offering it in two distinct price tiers is a classy move.

Both of Seiko’s 145th Anniversary divers will be available in June, with the 1965 Heritage Diver priced at $1,400 and the “Samurai” at $595.

Both are limited editions, but in Seiko’s typically loose sense of the term. The Heritage is limited to 4,000 pieces, and the “Samurai” to 9,999.

It took New Balance 22 years to update the 991, but the running-turned-dad shoe didn’t lose its iconic appeal when the v2 debuted in 2023. 

While the Abzorb cushioning was upgraded to a full-length FuelCell, the 991v2 kept the “Made in UK” provenance and only made minor tweaks to the aesthetic that included a cleaner overall looks and smoother transitions between upper panels.

New Balance

It’s safe to say that the 991v2 is a contender for the most streetwear-friendly New Balance in the catalog, but this latest variant might make it a retro king.

Some backstory

Back in 2019, New Balance celebrated the 30th anniversary of the 1500 with the brand-new 1530 model.

The original 1500 helped define the modern “Made in UK” aesthetic and the 1530 remixed the ‘80s styling with more modern tech found in the 99X lineup.

It launched in two different colorways, “Balsam-Total” and “Eclipse-Gray,” chosen for their retro feel.

New Balance

New Balance

For its latest installment in the Iconic Influences series, New Balance revisits those colors on the Made in UK 991v2.

New Balance

Color me nostalgic

This time around, the sneakers lean into the turquoise-toned Balsam much more, thanks to the broader mesh toe box.

But the hue can also be found heavily on the tongue and collar. The majority of the nubuck leather is in navy-like Total Eclipse and various shades of gray, including on the reflective “N” logo at the side.

New Balance

New Balance

Pushing these dad shoes firmly into throwback territory, and perhaps the most divisive element, are the intentionally-yellowed soles, made to look like you found these in an old shoebox in your closet. The color fades into a less aggressive tone toward the front of the foot.

New Balance certainly has its fair share of retro-inspired releases, but this one might be truest to that concept.

New Balance

Availability and pricing

Priced at $170, this old-school pair of Made in UK 991v2 drops May 21 at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Sign up on New Balance’s website to be notified.

New Balance

New Balance Made in UK 991v2 Iconic Influences

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Outside of the big three integrated luxury sports watches, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Patek Philippe Nautilus and Vacheron Constantin Overseas, there are a number of other tempting, lesser-known options from smaller luxury brands.

One of the best, and a personal favorite of mine, is the H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner. The Streamliner boasts a unique cushion case, a serpentine integrated bracelet that’s a dream on the wrist and, in most cases, head-turning dials made using Moser’s trademark fumé grand feu enamel technique.

One of the most popular variations of the Streamliner is the Small Seconds version, which boasts a fumé grand feu enamel dial in Aqua Blue. But a new version released this week may be even more striking.

H. Moser & Cie.

Green dream

The new Moser Streamliner Small Seconds is exactly the same as the existing Aqua Blue version, except for one difference: the dial.

The new dial is still produced via Moser’s incredible grand feu enamel treatment, which sees a gold dial plate hand-hammered before being coated with powdered pigment in three different colors.

These pigments are applied by hand, one at a time, so they meld perfectly together to create the brand’s signature textured fumé effect that’s darker at the edges and bright in the center. The enamel is then fired in an oven a dozen times to create the proper appearance and texture.

H. Moser & Cie.

But instead of blue, this time around, the effect was completed in Lime Green. We’ve seen Moser use Lime Green fumé enamel before on the Endeavour Centre Seconds Concept Lime Green, but this marks the first time the particularly striking color has appeared on the brand’s flagship sports watch.

As previously stated, the rest of this Streamliner small seconds is the same as before. The cushion case still measures 39mm in diamter and is fixed to the same integrated bracelet, both in stainless steel. The water resistance remains a robust 120m. The hour and minute hands still boast solid ceramic Globolight luminous inserts. And the small seconds display at 6:00 still features a lacquered finish and a circular pattern.

There are sapphire crystals front and back, and through the caseback, the usual in-house Calibre HMC 500 movement is on full display. An automatic with a 74-hour power reserve and wound with a platinum micro-rotor, the HMC 500 features Moser’s typical skeletonization, anthracite coating and “Moser stripe” decoration.

H. Moser & Cie.

Availability and pricing

I lied earlier when I said the only difference between the Lime Green and Aqua Blue versions of the Streamliner Small Seconds was their dial color. There’s also a difference in price and availability.

Pricewise, the new Lime Green version comes in 1,000 CHF higher, presumably due to the added exclusivity. It’s priced at $39,000 USD. Then there’s the availability, as the Lime Green is a boutique exclusive, meaning it can only be purchased in person at a Moser boutique, of which there are just nine in the world, with the latest having opened in Chicago earlier this year.

H. Moser & Cie.

H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Small Seconds Lime Green Enamel

Specs

Case Size	39mm
Movement	H. Moser & Cie. Cal. HMC 500 automatic
Water Resistance	120m

• $39,000 at H. Moser & Cie.

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Apple started rolling out macOS 26.5 earlier this week and, admittedly, it’s a pretty underwhelming software update, mostly fixing things that you’d barely notice (such as bugs and security patches).

However, it did introduce one new feature that’s particularly useful for those with a permanent Mac desktop system with an iMac, Mac mini or Mac Studio. (Basically, any non-MacBook Mac.)

It’s called Power Control.

Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol

A new way to turn on your Mac

Power Control is a new feature that effectively introduces a new way to turn on your iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Studio. It’s a fix mostly aimed at the Mac Mini, as its power button is located underneath and can be difficult to press. (The Mac Studio’s and iMac’s power buttons are both located on the rear panel, not underneath.)

With the new Power Control setting turned on, your iMac, Mac Mini or Mac Studio will automatically turn on when reconnected to power. So if it’s off, you can just unplug and replug it into a power outlet and it’ll automatically turn on. It’ll also automatically turn on if your house loses and then regains power.

According to Apple’s Support document, the feature “can be helpful when you don’t have easy access to the computer’s power button.”

Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol

How to enable Power Control

Once running macOS 26.5, iMac, Mac Mini and Mac Studio owners will have access to the new Power Control feature located in the Energy section of the Settings app.

1. Open the Settings app on your Mac.
2. Click Energy in the sidebar.
3. From the “Start up when power is connected” menu on the right, choose Always.

And boom, you’re done.

But there’s a bit of a catch. The new Power Control setting requires you to have a Mac mini or iMac that was “introduced in 2024 or later,” or a Mac Studio that was “introduced in 2025 or later.” So, if you’re current model is from before that, you’re out of luck.

macOS 26.5 is available to download now.

Photo by Tucker Bowe for Gear Patrol

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G-Shock has been the top name in shock-resistant watches since its first launch back in 1983. For those keeping score, that’s over four decades of durability dominance.

And yet, the brand has hardly taken a breather from its innovation. In fact, the Casio sub-brand is still traveling along the cutting edge to this day.

In fact, there’s proof in one of its latest releases, the G-Shock MTG-B4000BD-1AJF (and its sibling launch, the MTG-B4000B-1AJF).

G-Shock

A mélange of materials

Utilizing groundbreaking technology, G-Shock has compiled and analyzed its forty-three plus years of shock-resistance data to synthesize this watch’s new dual-guard core structure.

The result is a complex, incredibly robust frame crafted from a combination of stainless steel and carbon fiber. But this isn’t standard-faire carbon fiber, either. It’s a laminate built via a three-dimensional process that layers sheet carbon and fiberglass, creating an even more durable, formidable bond.

G-Shock

And yet, that is only one of the marvels of technology to be applied to this watch. Its stainless steel parts, for instance, feature an IP coating and dual polished finishes. And the caseback is crafted with MIM (metal injection molding) technology, an impressive manufacturing process (which has also been used to create Magpul’s cutting-edge EDC knives).

Even the watch’s bracelet is unique, combining stainless steel and carbon fiber-reinforced resin into a stunning, robust synthesis of its constituent parts. And we haven’t even touched on the watch’s feature set yet …

G-Shock

Shockingly robust

As is often the case with G-Shock watches, especially in the higher-end lines, this watch has a huge number of things it can do.

Obviously, the big one is telling time. But it also boasts automatic time correction, radio-controlled connectivity (Multiband6), world time for 300 individual cities and, perhaps most interestingly, a “Find My Phone” feature.

G-Shock

It also boasts Bluetooth connectivity, so it can automatically adjust itself wherever you are, as long as it’s connected to your phone. And there’s a bevy of other controls within the Casio app.

And the cherry on top of the cake might be its movement. This watch has a Tough Solar movement, which means it can be charged with any light source, giving it major points in the convenience category. And since it’s quartz, the brand’s go-to, it’s incredibly accurate, reliable and dependable.

G-Shock

Availability and pricing

The G-Shock MTG-B4000BD-1AJF is now up on G-Shock’s Japanese site for ¥203,500 (approximately $1,287). Its sister watch, the G-Shock MTG-B4000B-1AJF, is also available for ¥176,000 (approximately $1,113).

G-Shock

G-Shock MTG-B4000BD-1AJF

This watch’s dual-core guard structure was designed utilizing literal decades of the brand’s shock resistance data, helping make it even more resilient and tougher than ever before. It also features a unique fusion frame utilizing both carbon fiber and stainless steel. Other tech featured on this watch includes IP coatings, MIM (metal injection molding), carbon fiber-reinforced resin, a Tough Solar movement and more. And that’s to say nothing of its robust feature set.

• $1,287 at G-Shock

Designed by the late, great Kit Carson three decades ago, CRKT’s M16 garnered a well-deserved place in Blade Magazine’s Top 10 tactical folders of the decade back in the day. 

Standing the test of time, the retired Army Master Sergeant and Cutlery Hall of Famer’s masterpiece continues to be one of the brand’s most popular offerings.

CRKT

Fittingly, CRKT is celebrating the M16’s 30th anniversary with real-life stories via its  “Carried” YouTube series and a #showmeyourM16 social campaign, but that’s not all. 

Adding to the more than two dozen versions of the knife currently available on its site is a brand-new take on the M16 that’s both highly affordable and exceptionally user-friendly.

Lock and load

Available in both black (M16-10XK) and tan (M16-10XD) colorways, this new treatment stands out thanks largely to its crossbar lock.

To my knowledge, this modern mechanism is limited to only a few other editions of the M16, all of which cost at least $75.

CRKT

Coveted for its secure, ambidextrous nature, the crossbar lock serves as a bonus deployment option while making one-handed retraction quick and easy.

Even as it modernizes, the knife retains many features its legions of fans have grown to love and expect over the years.

CRKT

Chief among them is an eye-popping 3.03-inch tanto blade complete with spine jimping and Veff Serrations, which give the lower half an aggressive jagged edge that can saw through practically anything.

Democratizing the whole affair is 8Cr14MoV, an incredibly wallet-friendly high-carbon stainless steel that nonetheless offers respectable hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance.

CRKT

I can only assume this selection plays a major role in the price dipping below $50, pretty remarkable for such a scene-stealing knife.

The blade also boasts a prominent ambidextrous thumb stud, cross-hatched for additional grip, with the classic IKBS ball-bearing pivot ensuring smooth deployment. 

CRKT

The handle itself helps carry the M16’s heritage forward, as the skeletonized glass-reinforced nylon scales echo the striking silhouette of its forebears.

Rounding things out is a reversible pocket clip, making this streamlined 2.1-ounce icon as easy to carry as it is to use.

Availability and pricing

The CRKT M16-10XK Crossbar Lock and M16-XD Crossbar Lock are available now for $48 apiece.

CRKT

CRKT M16-10XK Crossbar Lock

• $48 at CRKT

CRKT

CRKT M16-10XD Crossbar Lock

• $48 at CRKT

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Much like the quest to reach inbox zero and maintain it, the pursuit of a continually clean and organized desk requires simple tools that can be easily implemented.

If you’ve struggled to keep your workplace essentials tidy and failed to find the right system that suits your needs, Orbitkey’s latest release could be the game changer you’ve been looking for.

The Grid Desk Organizer brings a flexible, streamlined approach to managing desk essentials.

Orbitkey

“Good order is the foundation of all good things”

Modern work may require many implements and accessories to get the job done, but Orbitkey’s latest release makes it possible to eliminate the messy desk once and for all.

Orbitkey

That’s thanks to its modular design, which makes this the opposite of a one-size-fits-all system; the foundation of the Grid Desk Organizer is the customizable pegboard divider, constructed with snap-in dividers that can be rearranged to fit your needs, not the other way around.

Orbitkey

Orbitkey

The system launches with two sizes, the Grid Desk Organizer and the Grid Desk Organizer Mini, and three colorways: Black, Stone and Terracotta.

Orbitkey

Both sizes are built with the same layout. The main layer is the base and houses the divider system. Then there’s the secondary accessory tray for smaller items, plus a lid that pulls double-duty as a valet tray for even quicker access to tools.

Each of the trays slide open rather than needing to be lifted off, and the entire system can fit in a drawer, on your desktop or even a bedside table.

Orbitkey

At less than $50, Orbitkey’s latest entry into everyday organization brings value that far exceeds its price point and size.

The Grid Desk Organizer will begin shipping in September 2026.

Availability and pricing

Released less than 24 hours ago, the Kickstarter project was fully funded in 12 minutes, with $85,000 raised in the first hour and 26 days to go in the campaign.

The Grid Desk Organizer is retailing for $42.

As devout fans know, GiantMouse routinely names its knives after favorite food, drink and hotel haunts of Danish founders Jens Ansø and Jesper Voxnaes.

So it is with the iconic Ace Biblio, which draws its name from a beloved, literary-leaning Brooklyn bar.

GiantMouse

Alas, Ansø has since left GM to focus on his own thing, the bar has closed its doors (with a rather bonkers redirect) and the knife has not been updated in some time.

Thankfully, that statement is now two truths and a lie, as the Ace Biblio returns in a beautifully blacked-out new edition.

Biblio tech

GiantMouse knives almost universally pair sleek, functional design with top-notch materials, and the brand’s sweet new Ace Biblio FL Blackout is no exception.

GiantMouse

The fun starts with a 2.82-inch drop-point blade made of M390 super steel, which is generally prized for its blend of wear resistance, corrosion resistance and edge retention. 

GiantMouse

Mid-spine jimping boosts control during detail-driven, precise cuts, while a bit of extra protection arrives in the most badass way possible: a black PVD stonewash finish.

GiantMouse

Like a fair number of GM’s, the blackened steel is multi-deploying, courtesy of a thumb hole and a rear flipper, with the blade held in place by that sturdy staple of upscale knives, the frame lock. 

GiantMouse

Opposite the business end, a matching blacked-out titanium handle is ergonomically shaped, with dual choils (one on the blade and one on the handle) ensuring a steady four-fingered grip. 

Rounding things out is a reversible steel wire clip with an equally ashen hue, letting you carry this five-ounce phoenix wherever you like.  

Availability and pricing

The GiantMouse Ace Biblio FL Blackout is available now for $285. Only 300 will be produced, so don’t snooze if you are interested.

GiantMouse

GiantMouse Ace Biblio FL Blackout

• $285 at GiantMouse

As part of its grand comeback plan, Nissan has been on a mission to reinvent its image. With appeals ranging from a teased next-generation Skyline to a first look at the long-awaited Xterra revival, it’s been an exhaustive all-surface campaign.

Nissan’s latest enthusiast proposition doesn’t take the form of an in-house effort. Instead, it’s an outside endorsement that comes courtesy of Overland Expo.

Overland Expo

As this year’s Ultimate Overland Vehicle, the top-dog Frontier pickup has gotten treated to a comprehensive adventure-ready redux. It’s a look that the truck pulls off with ease, and it’s made only better by the fact that you could land this very rig in your driveway. 

A new frontier for the Pro-4X

From the factory, Nissan’s Pro-4X trim improves on the Frontier through upgraded suspension, skid plates, an electronic locking rear diff and some chunky all-terrain rubber. In other words, it already brings a lot to the table beyond its proven 310-horsepower 3.8-liter V6.

Overland Expo

Even still, this year’s Ultimate overhaul introduces some impactful changes to the truck’s equipment. Along with an ADO TitanSwap kit, it now rides on Fox coilovers and piggyback shocks, as well as some Black Rhino wheels wrapped in Nokian Outpost tires.

What’s more, it benefits from a set of NISMO rock sliders for extra underbody protection, and you’ll also find a raised Borla cat-back exhaust for extra clearance in addition to a front-mounted winch for recovery.

Overland Expo

Of course, the most transformative aspect of the Frontier Pro-4X’s Ultimate treatment is obviously the addition of its sleeping accommodations. At the rear, there’s a sweet pop-top camper by Tune Outdoor that tips the scales at a mere 322 pounds.

Not only that, but with a total of 28 different brands partnering for the build, it also brings a lot to the table in the case of living provisions. From RotopaX water storage and a Rixen shower to a portable firepit and an onboard electric fridge, it’s got it all.

Overland Expo

Not the first Ultimate build

This year’s Ultimate build marks the sixth time that Overland Expo has taken a stock vehicle and turned it into a dream adventure rig, and it’s a first for Nissan.

Previously, the outfit’s one-off overlanding conversions have included fan-favorite platforms like the Toyota 4Runner and the Lexus LX, as well as rugged, off-road-ready GMCs like the Sierra 1500 AT4X and the Canyon AT4X (in AEV guise, too).

Overland Expo

Two-wheel fans will also be happy to know that the Overland Expo’s efforts extend to motorcycles, too. Be it Africa Twin, Ténéré 700, Tiger or even Ural, they all invite wanderlust.

Overland Expo has auctioned off each of these drool-worthy vehicles at the end of their life on the show circuit, donating the proceeds to the Overland Expo Foundation. If you’re a fan of the Pro-4X above, be sure to watch for it in a few months on Bring a Trailer.

More to come

For now, the soonest way to catch the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Ultimate Overland Vehicle will be at Overland Expo West, running May 15-17. While there, it’ll make its full debut.

Overland Expo

Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Ultimate Overland Vehicle

• Learn More

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The Chuck Taylor All Star is Converse’s most well-known style, but the Chuck 70 has become a foundational sneaker in its own right, bringing a premium, 1970s-inspired perspective to the traditional All Star.

The underrated alternative already features heavier-duty canvas, better cushioning and a more durable overall construction, but the latest take on the retro-inspired silhouette raises the bar even further, infusing classic Americana aesthetics into the heritage design.

Converse

Stars and (pin)stripes

The latest Converse x Madhappy collaboration sees five new, limited-edition takes on the Chuck 70, in both the High and Ox silhouettes.

The second partnership effort between the legacy footwear brand and the Los Angeles-based lifestyle and apparel brand pays homage to the West Coast, bringing premium materials and a timeless yet refreshed look to the quintessential sneaker.

Converse

The new capsule collection emphasizes what already makes Converse a favorite.

Nostalgic felt patches, oversized star cut-outs in suede, pinstripe interiors and cursive co-branding make traditional Converse elements more playful and prominent, while premium materials and hand-done finishes via Madhappy elevate the familiar shoe.

Converse

Converse

Five distinct colorways (Graystone, Lipstick Red, Natural Ivory, Black and Thunderdaze Pinstripe) offer a grounded take on classic Americana styling, giving the collection a contemporary yet playful attitude.

Converse

The refined update to the Chuck 70 expertly balances the core features of the shoe while bringing in an optimistic, high-spirited perspective.

Availability and pricing

The Converse x Madhappy Chuck 70 Hi ($130) and Ox ($120) will release on Friday, May 15th on both Converse and Madhappy’s respective websites and select retailers.

The Graystone colorway of the Chuck 70 Hi is available exclusively at Madhappy.

Converse

Converse x Madhappy Chuck 70 Hi

• Shop Now

Converse

Converse x Madhappy Chuck 70 Ox

• Shop Now

Wrensilva has been making some of the most gorgeous (and expensive) modern record consoles for the last decade.

These all-in-one hi-fi systems feature a built-in turntable, preamp, amplifier, and speakers, as well as numerous wired and wireless connections (including Sonos multi-room functionality). Plus, they’re packaged in a handmade, mid-century-inspired wooden cabinet.

To date, the California-based audio maker has offered two different modern record consoles — its flagship M1 ($18,900+) and The Standard ($14,900+), the latter of which is slightly smaller, scaled down, and more affordable.

Now, Wrensilva has added a third option, the Studio, which is its most compact (and affordable) modern record console to date. According to the brand, it’s “built for the spaces where high-end audio has always deserved to live but never quite fit.”

Wrensilva Studio

Wrensilva

A timeless piece of furniture

If you’re familiar with Wrensilva’s previous record consoles, including the flagship M1 and The Standard, then you pretty much know the deal with the Studio. It’s an all-in-one hi-fi system that’s capable of both playing your favorite vinyl records and streaming your favorite music over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Of course, the Wrensilva Studio is a statement piece. The console is handmade in San Diego using natural walnut and charcoal speaker fabric. And it’s balanced on a pedestal base made of anodized brushed aluminum, inlaid with walnut. It’s simply stunning.

Wrensilva

Wrensilva

Tuned by master mixers

On top of the Studio sits a floating belt-driven turntable that features a frosted acrylic platter, a bespoke one-piece magnesium tonearm, and an Ortofon 2M Red cartridge. Inside, Wrensilva features a custom 100-watt-per-channel Class D amplifier powering a pair of custom 2-way bass-reflex speakers.

The sound of the system was tuned in collaboration with Manny Marroquin, an 18-time Grammy-winning mix engineer, and Giles Martin of Abbey Road Studios (who also happens to be the senior vice president of sound experience at Sonos).

Wrensilva

Wrensilva

Campfire glow

The Studio has been detailed with other stylish accents. The lid and the brass Wrensilva brandmark both have built-in backlighting. According to the brand, this makes the deck exude a warm glow, “transforming “the listening experience into its own musical campfire.”

Below the turntable and between the built-in speakers, the Studio features a textured door, behind which is a storage cabinet large enough to store up to 40 vinyl albums.

Wrensilva

Wrensilva

Built for smaller spaces

The entire record console measures 31 inches wide by 17 inches deep and 33 inches tall, so it has quite a small footprint (especially compared to its larger siblings). According to the brand, its minimal footprint allows it “to fit seamlessly into smaller rooms, creative studios, retail, and hospitality spaces.”

Like all Wrensilva record consoles, the Studio is designed for both modern listening and vinyl. It has listening modes for vinyl, Bluetooth, and auxiliary. Additionally, you can order it configured with a Sonos Port, which allows you to easily integrate the Studio into your existing Sonos multi-room system. Naturally, this costs a bit extra.

Wrensilva

Availability and pricing

The Studio is the most affordable option in Wrensilva’s Record Console Collection, which also includes the flagship M1 ($18,900+) and The Standard ($14,900+), but it’s still anything but cheap.

Wrensilva’s Studio starts at $9,900 for the model that supports three listening modes (vinyl, Bluetooth and auxiliary). If you want the Studio to integrate seamlessly with your Sonos system, that costs an extra $900.

The Wrensilva Studio is now available on the company’s website. At the time of writing, orders are expected to take between six and eight weeks to ship.

Wrensilva

Wrensilva Studio

• $9,900 at Wrensilva
• $10,800 at Wrensilva (w/ Sonos)

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Collecting whiskey is no cheap hobby.

Even after two consecutive years of declining sales, the industry still has its hardcore fans who are willing to shell out extra cash for exclusive releases.

That said, Maker’s Mark has always been different, and now it’s releasing a rare bottle design to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

The best part? It costs the same as your classic everyday Maker’s Mark.

Maker’s Mark

Wax poetic

If you know nothing about the world of whiskey, you can likely still recognize the Kentucky distillery’s signature red wax.

Introduced by founder Bill Samuel’s wife Margie, the hand-dipped wax has been dripping down the bottle’s neck ever since the brand launched in 1958, sealing the cork stopper underneath and also stamped on front (although recent packaging doesn’t feature the stamp as often).

Maker’s Mark

With a few exceptions, the wax has been colored exclusively in red. In recent years, Maker’s has started to play on tradition a bit.

Notable examples include the all-blue wax when racehorse American Pharoah won the Triple Crown in 2016 or a combination of red and blue when the New England Patriots won the Super Bowl in 2015. For the first time in nearly two decades, Maker’s Mark layers three colors together, just like it did for a 2002 release that remembered the 9-11 attacks.

Maker’s Mark

For America’s 250th-anniversary edition, the classic red drapes down over a white underneath, covering the neck. Meanwhile, blue is used for the bottle stamp, upon which the standard “S IV” is placed, nodding to William Samuels Jr., the fourth-generation of distilling Samuelses and the long-time face of the company (he now serves as Chairman Emeritus).

Well, well, well

Maker’s Mark is no slouch, and even its entry-level hooch is far from your average well whiskey.

While this writer prefers the brand’s 46 Cask Strength, their Straight Bourbon is surprisingly pleasant for sipping (and mixing) thanks to its wheated mashbill, which gives it a slightly sweeter profile with vanilla notes, which you can experience at a solid 90 proof (45% ABV).

The liquid inside this limited-edition 250th Anniversary edition is the exact same as the distillery’s basic $30 bottle, and so the price hasn’t changed either. Maker’s has long been somewhat resistant to premium pricing, even with its more meticulously stave-finished bottlings. 

Maker’s Mark

In recent years, it has shifted that mentality a bit with its Cellar Aged expressions, retailing around $150 and featuring liquid that’s been aged up to 14 years. However, it says something about the brand’s commitment to giving its diehard fans a collector’s item without the upcharge.

Availability and pricing

Priced at the aforementioned $30, this Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon America’s 250th Anniversary bottling is limited to an unspecified edition size, which means it may or may not be available long after its June 1 launch date.

If you’re thinking of displaying this bottle at your upcoming Independence Day celebration, you might want to act fast.

A portion of all sales will go to the Farmer Veteran Coalition, which helps US veterans begin agricultural careers.

Update: An earlier version of this story misstated that this release was the first time Maker’s Mark used a tri-color wax, but the article has now been corrected for accuracy.

Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon America’s 250th Anniversary

• $30 at Maker's Mark

I’d like to think that, even in a galaxy far, far away, a trusty pocket knife would still be an invaluable, handy tool to keep on your person.

It seems Prometheus Design Werx, a beloved tactical and outdoor brand, agrees. Or at least that’s what I’ve gathered from the PDW SPD X Strider SMF Tiger Stripe Mythosaur.

This release takes one of the most iconic tactical folding knives ever and breathes new, interesting life into it. Here’s how:

Prometheus Design Werx

Galactic camouflage

Clearly, this special-edition knife was designed and launched in anticipation of the upcoming Star Wars movie, The Mandalorian and Grogu. That would explain the Mythosaur skull etched onto the handle, a signature of the Mandalorian people.

And while that novelty is certainly fun, especially for lifelong fans like myself, it’s honestly the least interesting part of this knife.

Prometheus Design Werx

Take in the surrounding design, for instance. This unique camouflage pattern, which can be found on both the blade and the handle, is a laser-etched design. And it is so in-depth and detailed that it takes a whopping four hours per knife to apply.

And it’s convincing, too. Drop this knife onto the forest floor of one of the moons of Endor, and I bet you’re going to have a damn hard time finding it again. (On second thought, don’t try that, just to be safe.)

Prometheus Design Werx

Bountiful blade

It doesn’t hurt that this unique design is applied to what is certainly among the most beloved tactical folding knives ever, the Strider SMF. Originally designed for the USMC, this knife has always been formidable, but this version is especially so.

That starts with its blade. While maintaining the same drop-point shape, spine jimping and signature thumb hole, it gets a big material upgrade to MagnaCut steel, among the most beloved of the moment.

Then, on the other side of the knife, there’s the handle. With an integrated frame lock, it boasts an all-titanium construction, helping to cut weight without sacrificing any strength, durability or security.

As it says on the handle of this knife itself, “keep your wits sharp and your blade sharper.” It’s sage advice, of course, but it would definitely help your cause if this particular knife were in your pocket.

Prometheus Design Werx

Availability and pricing

The PDW SPD X Strider SMF Tiger Stripe Mythosaur is live on the Prometheus Design Werx site. However, it does look to be out of stock already (in under a day, no less).

That said, you can sign up for restock notifications on the product page.

Audi allroad fans, assemble! The Ingolstadt automaker is apparently readying a new model based on the latest A6. New spy shots and intellectual property office filings indicate that the lifted soft-roader wagon variant of Audi’s popular midsizer isn’t going anywhere.

The carmaker just recently launched an all-new, fifth-generation A6, which, of course has fans wondering what’s next for its different variants. So, if you were fearing the disappearance of the allroad model, fret no more.

Subaru Outback fans will still have a fancier lifted wagon to move up to

Audi

The fifth-gen A6 recently dropped not too long ago with the standard sedan and wagon leading the launch. Despite a new generation already out and about, the outgoing A6-based allroad variant remains available for the 2026 model year.

But obviously, the fourth-gen model is on limited time as Audi continues phasing out the old version. That leaves the slot wide open for a new model, which is exactly what the brand is preparing.

Audi

According to our friends at Drive on the opposite side of the planet, spy photos recently surfaced of a next-gen A6 allroad prototype. Additionally, Australia’s intellectual property offices received trademark filing renewals for the A6 allroad.

Although heavily camouflaged, per normal protocol, one can still make out widened wheel wells with additional protective cladding, a slight bump in ground clearance and standard roof rack rails.

Audi

Considering the details, all serve as solid confirmations that an A6 allroad successor is most certainly in the works. And, perhaps, just around the corner.

In addition to sticking to its beloved formula, the A6 and its allroad variant will also retain their “A6” badges. Originally, Audi was on a controversial remodeling kick after it renamed the A4 model as the A5.

The plan included rebranding the A6 as the A7. But after huge backlash, the brand canceled that strategy, which means the A6 will stick with its original designation.

A ongoing tradition and love for Audi’s quirkiest automobile

Audi

Believe it or not, the allroad variants have been some of Audi’s longest-running models. Originally introduced in the 1990s on the second-gen A6, the allroad has become a huge cult favorite.

It’s so beloved, Audi has continued producing an allroad version of the A6 over the years without interruption. And it even attempted to make a smaller, more affordable version based on the previous generation A4.

Audi

With the next-gen model, Audi will be sticking with tradition. However, new rumors suggest that it could inherit the new A6’s latest plug-in hybrid gas-electric powertrain. European and Asian market customers are also likely to get an optional turbodiesel variant.

“The big thing is what we found with allroad customers, traditionally A4 and A6, they are traditional buyers of allroads,” Matthew Dale, Audi Australia’s chief product manager, once told Drive. “They don’t want passenger vehicles, they’re very loyal, they don’t want an SUV, so they’ll continually buy an allroad because that’s the car that suits them.”

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After a nine-year hiatus, one of IKEA’s most iconic collections returns to shelves.

The PS 2026 collection arrives this month with a handful of whimsical designs, including a rocking bench and $5 paper masks that hang from the wall as decoration.

Ikea

Ikea

But there’s genuine utility here, too.

Comprised of nearly three-dozen items, PS 2026 showcases a four-tier cart on wheels, rattan ottoman with internal storage and inflatable lounge chair that’s easy to move around one’s home.

Ikea

Ikea

One of the highlights is a wooden version of IKEA’s Guide shelf. Highly collectible, the Guide first came out in 1985 and was later reissued under the name Byakorre.

Here it simply goes by the name IKEA PS 2026 Shelf, and it features red-painted end grains as a tribute to “traditional wood drying techniques,” the product page reads.

Ikea

Ikea

A brief history of PS

The first PS collection debuted in 1995, when IKEA set out to reestablish itself as a leader in Scandinavian design.

At the time, British, Japanese and Italian designers were gaining attention for minimalist furniture in natural wood.

Ikea

Ikea

In response, IKEA launched the first PS collection at the Salone del Mobile in Milan, where it quickly impressed both critics and consumers.

Rooted in Scandinavian heritage, the first collection featured clean lines, playful functionality, and thoughtful design. Just as important, the prices catered to shoppers at both ends of the economic scale.

Ikea

Availability and pricing

The PS 2026 collection retains the attitude of democratic design.

Prices start at $5 and top out at $499 for a pine cabinet with a handwoven effect.

Pieces are available now at IKEA locations across the globe but expected to move fast. The company has yet to confirm how long it will keep the collection in its catalog.

Ikea

IKEA PS 2026

• Starts at $5

Is there a watch brand today doing crazier things than Ming?

In the past year and change, the brand launched the industry’s first pure white-glowing lume, debuted a 3D-printed titanium mesh bracelet with no screws or fasteners, created a bracelet with links that can be removed without tools and debuted a multiphasic dial that radically changes color depending on your viewing angle.

That last one was apparently of special interest to Ming, as the brand’s latest watch takes the concept of a color-changing dial to never-before-seen places.

Ming

Now you see me

Ming’s new creation is the 29.06 Peepshow, and its approach to dial-making is exceedingly clever. Previously, any type of dial described as color-changing was illusory. Iridescent dials like the previously alluded to Ming 57.04 Iris and the Oris ProPilot X Calibre 400 Laser both have dials whose color appears to constantly shift, but this is just a trick of the light. Their dials’ appearance varies based on how our eyes perceive the light reflecting off of them, based on the angle at which they’re viewed.

Knowing this, Ming came up with a way to deliberately control the light reflecting off the dial, meaning we can only see the dial as Ming wants us to see it at any given moment. The Peepshow’s dial shifts from pitch black to the same iridescent multiphasic color seen on the Iris, and it does this regardless of your viewing angle.

Ming

So, how did Ming achieve this? By using the same technology found in your sunglasses’ lenses.

The hour and minute hands on the Peepshow look like standard Ming hands, but they actually aren’t hands at all. Each “hand” is actually etched on its own transparent sapphire disc, one on top of the other. These discs are linearly polarized to each other, meaning they control how much of the dial you can see by altering how much visible light is allowed to pass through.

When the hands are aligned, such as at 6:00 or 12:00, the discs are fully transparent, revealing the iridescent, guillochéd dial in all its purple-blue-green glory. When the hands are angled at 90 degrees, like at 3:00 or 9:30, all light is blocked and the dial appears completely black. As the hands move throughout the day, the perceived color of the dial is constantly changing, meaning your watch never looks the same for longer than a few brief moments.

Ming

Both hands are filled with HyCeram ceramic Super-LumiNova X1, while the underside of the sapphire crystal features laser-etched indices filled with Ming’s proprietary Polar White lume.

The metal dial features a machined guilloché pattern to go along with its multiphasic coating, and the case is Ming’s standard 29-series case. The 40mm x 11.8mm Grade 5 titanium case is my favorite design from the brand, as it features a hollowed-out version of Ming’s signature flying blade lugs and a glassbox-like sapphire crystal that fully envelops the bezel (or lack thereof).

Ming

Powering the watch is a pretty fantastic movement, too. It’s the Schwarz-Etienne for Ming Cal. ASE 200.M1 automatic. The movement is wound by a tungsten micro-rotor, features a skeletonized mainspring barrel and boasts some nice-looking contemporary decoration typical of Ming’s higher-end movements. The power reserve is an impressive 84 hours when fully wound.

Like many Ming watches, the Peepshow is mounted on a Jean Rousseau strap, this one in perlon-textured calf leather with an Alcantara lining. It’s secured via Ming’s microadjustable Flying Blade Tuck Buckle that keeps the strap’s tail against your wrist for a neat appearance.

Availability and pricing

Ming watches have a reputation of being especially hard to get, given their small production runs and high demand, but this has been alleviated in recent years with a series of permanent-collection models from the brand that are more or less always in stock.

With the Peepshow, however, Ming is back to its old ways.

The watch is limited to just 50 pieces, and demand is through the roof. The Peepshow went on sale yesterday and is already sold out on Ming’s website, though you may still be able to snag one through authorized dealers like Collective Horology.

Ming

Ming 29.06 Peepshow

Specs

Case Size	40mm
Movement	Schwarz-Etienne for Ming Cal. ASE 200.M1 automatic
Water Resistance	50m

• $31,000 at Ming
• $31,000 at Collective Horology

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Welcome to “Today in Gear,” your daily snapshot of the most important releases in style, watches, tech, motoring, fitness, home and the outdoors.

Today in Gear: The most important news in the product world, independently curated by our editors. Catch up on other key releases across all the topics you care about.

Buck Mason

G.H.Bass x Buck Mason Larson Weejuns Loafer

Buck Mason renews its collaboration with G.H.Bass by introducing its elevated take on the Larson loafer in brown. Built from Horween Chromexcel leather, the naturally textured upper borders on oxblood with rich burgundy hues. It has a leather insole, a full leather outsole attached with a Goodyear welt and a stacked leather heel with a full rubber grip. The upper is hand-stitched, including the Maine shoemaker’s signature “beefroll.”

• $248 at Buck Mason
• $295 at G.H.Bass

Panasonic

Panasonic Lumix L10

Panasonic’s Lumix L10 is a compact fixed-lens camera released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Lumix brand. It features the same 20.4-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor as in the company’s Lumix GH7. Plus, it packs a hybrid phase-detect autofocus system and comes with a fixed Leica DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm (f/1.7-2.8) zoom lens. According to the brand, its “tactile controls and balanced design creates a seamless shooting experience, enabling photographers to capture moments freely, without distraction, particularly suited for street, travel and everyday photography.”

• $1,500 at Panasonic

Hayworth Athletic

Hayworth Athletic Standard Model No. 152

Based in Austin, TX, Hayworth revives the lost art of hand-stitched soccer balls. The No. 152 features 1.5mm layers of polyurethane leather, sewn tight using high-tensile Italian waxed thread. The result is a soccer ball built to last through the years, rather than break down after a single season.

• $135 at Hayworth Athletic

Native Union

Native Union Pop Cable

Gen Z might not find the design of this cable very familiar, but anyone who grew up before the 2000s and had a landline at home will immediately catch the Y2K vibe of this coiled charging cable. However, this is not a phone cable; it’s a USB-C charging cable compatible with the Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, iPhone 15 and any other bit of tech with that input/output. It also boasts high-speed charging up to 60W, offering up to 50 percent of an iPhone charge in just 30 minutes. And if you need a longer one, there’s a Pop Cable XL.

• $20 at Native Union

3Bird

3Bird Alux Sun Hoodie

Apparel-based sun protection continues to be underrated, but this new drop from Jackson Hole, Wyoming-based 3Bird makes it easy, comfortable and stylish. This moisture-wicking, quick-drying 90% polyester/10% Spandex blend hoodie features a UPF 50+ rating, plus finger loops (for over-the-hand coverage) and a handy left-chest zippered pocket. Available in five sizes and three colors, it’s a streamlined, set-it-and-forget-it way to shield your skin this summer.

• $109 at 3Bird

Toyota has a pretty robust history of making pickups. Nevertheless, we weren’t expecting to hear that the big Japanese auto giant is potentially considering a tiny, affordable truck based on the RAV4.

Yep, you read that correctly. According to Automotive News, which sat down with Toyota North America CEO Tetsuo “Ted” Ogawa, the Big T might be tripling down on its pickup plans.

Those could involve taking the RAV4, chopping its arse off and making a car-based crossover SUV model to pick up where the Hyundai Santa Cruz left off.

Toyota may answer the call for a small, affordable pickup before anyone else

Toyota

Toyota has maintained a firm hold on the pickup market for decades, thanks to the global Hilux and North America’s Tacoma and Tundra. Because even though the Tundra is up against some stiff competition from Detroit, its Tacoma is the ultimate go-to in the midsize market.

But now, the company wants to apparently amp up its pickup superiority in a space where everyone’s clamoring for one.

As pickups have grown in size and popularity, they’ve also gotten exponentially more expensive. With automakers prioritizing midsize and full-size models, those looking for smaller, more affordable options have been left out.

Toyota

Some carmakers know this and are working to address the major hole in the market and meet the demand for smaller trucks. Now, Toyota could be rushing to the frontline with one.

“There is, of course, some opportunity for us in the commercial area, but it is new to us,” Ogawa said when asked about more commercial vehicles and a small pickup. “We need to study more. But for the compact truck? Definitely, we have such demand.”

Could Toyota succeed where Hyundai didn’t?

Toyota

Pickup truck lovers have been clamoring for a small, affordable model for years. A few companies tried answering the demand.

Most recently was Hyundai, which gave us the quirky Santa Cruz pickup. However, although seemingly perfect in concept, it didn’t quite take off.

Some point to the fact that it was based off a crossover SUV, rather than a more conventional body-on-frame platform. Others say it was too expensive for what it was.

Hyundai

But despite the Santa Cruz’s flop, interestingly, Toyota could be attempting the same sort of recipe with this RAV4 pickup prospect. There are also other examples in the past where car-based pickups did well enough to leave an impression. Such examples include the Subaru Baja and the Volkswagen Rabbit-based Pickup from the ’70s and ’80s.

“A RAV4-based pickup is an opportunity for us, and the dealers are waiting,” Ogawa continued. “Maybe they say we need today or tomorrow, but it takes time.”

Toyota

Toyota Chief Operating Officer, Mark Templin, also hinted at the prospect of a more affordable pickup in recent years. But he emphasized the need for patience as he felt the segment still needs time to grow.

Currently, Ford is the leader in the push for small pickups with its Maverick compact pickup. It remains the best-seller with over 155,000 sold just last year.

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Just as you can debate the definition of a gentleman’s knife, you can undoubtedly do so with the term tool watch as well. 

For that reason, I can understand horology enthusiasts hesitating to refer to the new Increment Labs LMW-V1 as such.

Increment Labs

However, I have no qualms about saying the specific function it offers is unlike anything else I’ve seen wrapped around a wrist. 

Short for Light Meter Watch-Version 1, this unique Kickstarter project just might be the budding photographer’s best friend.

Wrist shot

Operating out of London, Increment Labs calls the LMW-V1 the first watch to feature a built-in light meter for avid shutterbugs wrestling with manual settings.

Though this topic is far beyond my own expertise, I can say off the bat that they’ve scored on the aesthetic front.

Increment Labs

Both inspired by classic camera design and resembling an old-school Casio, the watch features a waterproof aluminum case, a bisected LCD screen and, with the Limited Edition: Black LMW-V1 upgrade, a textured leather strap with vintage camera leatherette grip vibes.

Leaning into the analog nature of classic cameras, the almost handmade-looking case features engraved depth of field lines, while the read button mimics a shutter release.

Increment Labs

Concerning its functional bona fides, the LMW-V1 is the product of two years of R&D, feedback from hundreds of photographers with issues like co-designer Rich Soler’s own: struggling to translate manual metering into aperture and shutter speed settings.

The idea is that toting a light meter on your wrist helps you train your eye on aperture and speed anytime you like, even when you don’t have your camera, an exercise that will essentially train you to become a much better natural judge of light.

Increment Labs

According to the team, the watch can serve everyone from beginners to pros looking to streamline their camera kit, though I suspect there will be much more interest from the former than the latter.

Increment Labs also makes the case that the LMW-V1 is superior to smartphone apps that are dependent on the phone’s potentially imprecise capabilities and more reliable than bulky, incidental light meters that work better indoors.

The LMW-V1’s advantage lies in accurate and consistent readings gleaned from a silicone photodiode sensor angled at 45 degrees that employs the same tech used in pro-level exposure meters and industrial optical instruments.

Increment Labs

One rather gimmicky but nonetheless cool bonus feature is a “golden hour alarm” calibrated to longitude and latitude, giving you an alert for the best window to capitalize on glorious sunsets and sunrises.

Oh, and just like a traditional tool watch, it also has the most fundamental feature on lock: a 32,000Hz quartz crystal tracks the time and date like a champ.

Availability and pricing

The Increment Labs LMW-V1 is available now on Kickstarter, starting at $162. Estimated delivery is March 2027.

Increment Labs

Increment Labs LMW-V1

• Starts at $162

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From the Barrel isn’t your average blended whisky.

First of all, the entire expression comes from Nikka’s own facilities, which already gives the whisky a singular identity.

Combining liquid from the legendary whisky maker’s Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries, the marriage typically combines both malt and grain whiskies for a three-month period.

Nikka Whisky

From the Barrel is also bottled at a 102.8 proof (51.4% ABV), higher than your typical blend, resulting in deeper tasting notes of vanilla, orange peel and oak.

Here comes the barrel

For the expression’s 40th anniversary last year, Nikka announced a special edition of From the Barrel called “Extra Marriage,” keeping the same 51.4% ABV but enhancing the profile by doubling the amount of time the two separate liquids meet (six months instead of three).

Nikka Whisky

Nikka Whisky

Continuing the celebrations, From the Barrel Extra Marriage will now be released alongside a three-bottle Gift Set that includes a 500mL bottle of the standard expression, as well as individual 500mL bottles of the malt (Malt Pieces of the Barrel) and grain (Grain Pieces of the Barrel) whiskies.

Each will be bottled at 58% ABV (116 proof) and limited to just 800 sets.

Nikka Whisky

Widely believed to be corn-based, the grain bottling exhibits a nose of banana cake and marmalade that gives way to a sweet and rich character you might find in American whiskeys.

Nikka Whisky

Meanwhile, the malt expression combines vanilla, apricot jam, and chocolate cake on the nose before offering fruit and soft peat notes on the palate.

Nikka Whisky

Availability and pricing

Already sold out from Nikka’s website, From the Barrel Extra Marriage can be found from certain retailers while supplies last. Total Wine has the bottle at $73 but is selling out quickly.

As for the Extra Marriage Gift Set, the trio will be released this month with an MSRP of $400, but you can expect that to increase on the secondary market once the 800 units are all gone.

Nikka Whisky

Nikka From the Barrel Extra Marriage Gift Set

• $400 at Nikka

G-Shock is no stranger to the rumor mill.

Who could forget the whispers around the MRG-B5000, the first ever MR-G model based on the legendary 1983 original? Or last year’s Ring Watch, widely believed to be fake until it actually came out?

Now the mill is churning yet again, this time with a G-Shock so obscure, you might never see one in person.

Not your average metal

Hypebeast Japan shared a video of the upcoming GM-6900CCC-3, which the outlet claims will be limited to less than a dozen examples worldwide.

Similar to the popular but now-discontinued GM6900G-9, the 6900CCC (nickname pending) is gold in color. But rather than stainless steel, the bezel is made of an alloy called Cobarion.

Used on certain MR-G models in the past, Cobarion was developed at Iwate University in Japan by Professor Akihiko Chiba and is made up of cobalt, chrome and molybdenum.

Prior to making its watchmaking debut with the G-Shock MRG-G2000CB “Kurozonae” in 2017, the material was applied in the medical field for artificial joints, thanks to its extreme hardness.

G-Shock

G-Shock

Twice the hardness of stainless steel and four times that of titanium (albeit heavier), Cobarion has been compared to platinum in terms of its luxurious luster, which you can see here on the 6900CCC’s faceted bezel.

G-Shock

In true G-Shock fashion, there is no official information yet, so sizing is still unclear. However, a GM-6900 almost always spans 49.7mm across and 53.9mm lug-to-lug with 200m of water resistance.

It also appears the watch has the standard resin inner case as well, but the caseback is gold-colored, featuring a monochromatic camouflage pattern shared with the dial. 

Likewise, the resin strap will have a camouflage print, but in a darker woodland pattern with greens and grays.

A stylish staple

While you could pick any model from the Casio sub-brand as a streetwear favorite, the 6900 range is the paragon.

G-Shock

Since it debuted in the mid-’90s, the rounded digital timepiece has been popular with urban culture simply for how it combines boldness and subtlety.

Lending itself well to collaborations due to its deceptive simplicity, the 6900 was the canvas for G-Shock’s earliest collaborations, such as one with Stüssy in the late ‘90s and Bathing Ape a few years later.

In other words, it’s the perfect candidate for a variant that only a few people in the world will be able to wear.

G-Shock

Availability and pricing

G-Shock has yet to officially reveal the GM-6900CCC-3.

According to Hypebeast Japan, G-Shock will be select 10 “key individuals” who will receive this watch, although the process remains ambiguous.

Don’t get too excited. No, Saab’s automotive division is not about to make some grand return.

However, the enthusiast-favorite Swedish carmaker is now making headlines, more than a decade after its collapse.

That’s because the last cars ever built at Saab’s Trollhättan factory have recently surfaced, and now they’re about to go up for sale as part of an upcoming auction.

Klaravik

The last of a beloved brand

Not only that, but they’re some truly unique vehicles. Following Saab’s bankruptcy in 2011, National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) took control of the remaining assets, attempting to salvage the brand by leaning on legacy and adding battery power along with next-gen tech.

As such, the Klaravik auction lineup includes a total of eight vehicles. Some are more traditionally Saab-like, while others offer a glimpse of what could have been, assuming things had panned out for the China-backed NEVS.

Klaravik

On the gas-powered front, this means that, along with a pair of 2014 Saab 9-3 Aero pre-production vehicles, there’s a 2014 9-3 prototype. Though they’re hardly pristine, they’re not high-mileage, either, showing around 11,000 to 36,000 miles on the clock.

Beyond those cars, the auction’s other advertised drivable vehicle takes the form of a battery-powered 2018 NEVS 9-3. It managed to accumulate over 23,000 miles during its time in testing.

The three other NEVS 9-3 Electric models don’t bring the same kind of functionality, but they’re nevertheless forward-thinking concepts that remain relevant today. Along with prototypes touting autonomous tech and gas-fed range extenders, there’s also a pre-production model fitted with an electric motor at each wheel.

Klaravik

Assuming those aren’t up to your liking, Klaravik’s sale includes a Hengchi 5. It’s notable in that it’s the only one that made it to Sweden, and it comes with just 28 miles on the odometer.

Another end to the Saab saga

Much as it may seem like a lot of fuss over some old (and, in some cases, questionably Swedish) Saabs, these are significant vehicles. Their sale represents yet another development in the closing chapters of the brand’s story.

Remember, General Motors’ initial acquisition back in 1989 was really the beginning of the end of Saab. When it took full control at the turn of the millennium, it did so at the expense of the automaker’s unique Swedish identity.

Klaravik

That kind of dilution only compounded in 2010 with a sale to the Dutch firm Spyker Cars. Moreover, it was ultimately a move that merely prolonged Saab’s demise, as the 2012 bankruptcy resulted in NEVS ownership.

Initially, the Swedish startup attempted to preserve the Saab name. Even when it eventually lost the rights to badge its cars under the company’s likeness, it nevertheless preserved its legacy through familiar model naming conventions.

Of course, as the products of Chinese parent company Evergrande, they’re even more removed from their Swedish ancestors. If in likeness and location alone, however, they’re the closest things you can get to a Saab, directly from the source. After all, more than 75 years after the roll-out of the company’s first mass-produced vehicles, these are what remain at the Trollhättan factory.

Klaravik

Availability and pricing

If you’re interested in getting in on the action, Klaravik’s auctions will begin on May 21st and run through May 30th. All no reserve, they’ll conclude with a special event at the Trollhättan plant.

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

This year, 2026, marks the United States of America’s 250th anniversary. That’s a huge milestone by any measure.

To honor and celebrate the occasion, a brand that has been making mil-spec watches for the U.S. military since World War II has launched an appropriately patriotic, albeit still surprisingly tasteful pilot’s watch.

It’s called the Marathon U.S. 250 Anthracite Stainless Steel Navigator with Date. And while that’s, admittedly, a mouthful, the timepiece in question is pretty special.

Marathon

America, f*ck yeah!

While the watch isn’t just slathered in red, white and blue colors and eagle graphics, there are quite a few references to the U.S.A. and its history and culture hidden throughout this timepiece.

The most obvious is on the dial right below the 12 o’clock position, where there’s a 1776 logo surrounded by stars, in the same style as Betsy Ross’s iconic flag design.

Marathon

However, there’s a lot more than just that. For instance, the tritium tube above the 12 o’clock numerals is done in red, referencing the “rocket’s red glare” from the National Anthem. The rest of the tritium, on the other incides and hands, is classic green.

On the exhibition caseback, it’s a bit more obvious. The crystal has an American Flag print and the national motto “In God We Trust” (as appears on currency) printed on it. The watch also gets a bison leather strap, as bison is the national mammal of the U.S.A.

Marathon

Always bet on black

Marathon states that the black colorway of this watch is inspired by “the twilight’s last gleaming,” also from the National Anthem. However, it comes from the brand’s Anthracite lineup.

Along with the black colorway, “Anthracite” also refers to the ion plating on both the 316L stainless steel case and the movement. That movement, by the way, is a Swiss-made, 26-jewel Sellita SW200-1 with an Incabloc shock absorber.

Marathon

That does mean this watch is an automatic, which grants it some extra convenience. It also has a bidirectional elapsed-time bezel and both 12- and 24-hour markings on the dial for classic and military time.

Lastly, if you know Marathon and the 41-millimeter case looks familiar, that’s probably because it’s based on the brand’s SSNAV, which was originally developed in 1986 as a joint initiative with Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio. And that’s another level of American heritage built right into this timepiece.

Marathon

Availability and pricing

The Marathon U.S. 250 Anthracite Stainless Steel Navigator with Date watch is now available on the brand’s site for an appropriate $1,776 apiece. However, only 250 units are produced, making this an extremely limited-edition offering.

Marathon

Marathon U.S. 250 Anthracite Stainless Steel Navigator with Date

Specs

Case Size	41mm
Movement	Anthracite Sellita SW200-1 with Incabloc Shock Absorber
Water Resistance	100m

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Audio-Technica has been one of the biggest names in entry-level turntables, which range between $150 and $300, for years. But it’s also been one of the biggest players in the entry-level phono cartridge market, too.

In fact, not only does Audio-Technica equip its own decks with its own phono cartridges, but other popular turntable makers (such as Fluance, Sony, Victrola and Pro-Ject) have been known to use A-T’s phono cartridges, too.

Since its 2018 release, Audio-Technica’s AT-VM95E has been one of its most popular moving-magnet phono cartridges. It costs just $74, and is an easy and affordable way to upgrade your entry-level deck.

Now, Audio-Technica has introduced a new version of that popular entry-level phono cartridge.

Audio-Technica AT-VM95EBK

Audio-Technica

The Audio-Technica AT-VM95EBK is the newest addition to the brand’s VM95 series of entry-level phono cartridges. And it doesn’t mess with success too much.

In fact, the all-new AT-VM95EBK and the existing AT-VM95E are the exact same moving-magnet phono cartridges. The difference? Instead of green, the AT-VM95EBK comes in a refined black finish.

According to the brand, AT-VM95EBK brings “the proven VM95 Series engineering into a clean black design, featuring a 0.3 x 0.7 mil elliptical stylus and specially wound coils that deliver a 4.0 mV output with excellent channel separation and low distortion.”

Audio-Technica

Like its predecessor, the AT-VM95EBK is designed for half-inch mount turntables and is compatible with all six interchangeable AT-VMN95 replacement styli. It features a durable, low-resonance polymer housing and is simple to install, requiring just two screws.

For those who want an even more streamlined installation, Audio-Technica has introduced a Combo Kit (VM95EBK/H) with the same AT-VM95EBK cartridge pre-mounted on the AT-HS6BK universal half-mount headshell.

Audio-Technica

Availability and pricing

Audio-Technica’s AT-VM95EBK moving-magnetic phono cartridge is available now. It costs $74, the exact same price as the company’s existing AT-VM95.

The AT-VM95EBK Combo Kit, which features the same cartridge pre-mounted on a headshell, costs $109.

Both are available now.

Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica AT-VM95EBK

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It appears Subaru might not be showing Toyota the door for its next halo sports car after all. A new report from CarSales in Australia suggests that the automaker’s next-gen flagship and potential BRZ successor could arrive as a spin-off based on Toyota’s highly-anticipated Celica revival.

The update arrives as Australia’s intellectual property office just received filings for the “ACX” and “ACX STI” nameplates. More importantly, the trademark filings reinforce rumors surrounding what’s next for Subaru’s standalone sports coupe.

The end of the current BRZ is near

Subaru

Subaru has recently been on a mission to remind the world that it knows how to make sports and performance cars. After years of catering to the commuter and family outdoorsy crowd, the Fuji Heavy Industries-owned carmaker has made it clear that it wants to build fun cars again.

With the current BRZ coming to the end of its series production run, the timing couldn’t be any better. The current second-gen model has been with us since 2021. Because it just turned six years old, fans are wondering what’s next.

Additionally, with other Japanese automakers reviving some iconic sports car nameplates, many fans are looking to brands that haven’t yet jumped on the bandwagon.

Subaru

Subaru is one of them. To prove it still has a pulse, the automaker revealed some enticing STI concepts, and it has made promises to revive the STI performance brand.

And now, it looks like the rumors are getting even hotter for the BRZ.

The BRZ’s successor could revive an old badge

Subaru

In the latest development, rumors say the BRZ could be succeeded by a new model called the ACX and ACX STI. While the name might sound a bit random, it actually isn’t.

Subaru previously used ACX to name some of its earlier sports coupe concepts from the 1980s. It was the same period that also gave us some of Subie’s rarest and most desirable models, like the SVX and previously the XT.

In fact, Subaru specifically used the “ACX” badge to designate the production XT’s preceding conceptual prototype, the “ACX-II.”

Subaru

Previous rumors also suggested Subaru could be parting ways with its partner, Toyota, for the BRZ’s successor. For the past two generations, Toyota and Subaru collaborated to produce the GT86 and BRZ twins.

But now, it appears those rumors of Subaru going on its own for its next-gen sports car aren’t holding water. Additionally, the trademarking of both “ACX” and “ACX STI” implies there could be two versions of Subie’s next-gen sports coupe.

The BRZ’s successor may stick to good ‘ole internal combustion power

Subaru

Other rumors also suggest the ACX could be Subaru’s next big all-electric breakthrough. Some hearsay hinted that the model could ditch internal combustion power for good.

Subaru has neither confirmed nor denied as much. The company did say it’s unsure as to which direction to take for its future STI models, and it even displayed both STI Performance-B and Performance-E Concepts at the Japan Mobility Show a few months ago.

Subaru

But CarSales latest discovery suggests Subaru might just stick to gas power for the BRZ’s replacement. Whether those rumors align with the ones regarding the model being a Celica spin-off, remain to be officially determined.

When Swatch officially unveiled its Royal Pop collaboration with Audemars Piguet yesterday, the announcement was met with a mix of excitement and disappointment.

The excitement, which I largely share, is owed to this collab looking really good. The colors are very fun, the product is unique and unexpected and it’s arguably the perfect combination of Swatch and AP design language.

The very vocal displays of disappointment online come from the fact that the Royal Pop is not a wristwatch. Unlike previous Pop Swatches, Swatch is not offering a wristband that allows you to wear its Royal Oak collab on the wrist. Instead, you have the option of wearing it on a leather lanyard or using it as a desk clock with the included stand.

But don’t fret. Despite just being announced yesterday, a top strap maker has already announced that it’s working on developing a strap that will allow the Royal Pop to be worn on the wrist.

Delugs

No wrists allowed

While there is still speculation online that Swatch will eventually launch a strap to turn the Royal Pop into a wristwatch, I see no evidence of that. The comments Swatch is leaving on Instagram, directing people asking about straps to visit Swatch’s online store to purchase accessories, are simply telling people to buy more lanyards. I don’t expect Swatch to offer Royal Pop straps for a number of reasons.

For one, Audemars Piguet is a grail-level brand. It’s considerably upmarket from Omega, and even Blancpain, Swatch’s previous luxury watch collaborators. An AP-branded Swatch wristwatch that looks frighteningly close to an actual ceramic Royal Oak isn’t doing AP any favors and is arguably devaluing the brand.

Swatch

The Royal Pop as it exists, however, does help AP, in my opinion. It’s not a typical watch, so it doesn’t just appeal to typical watch nerds. It’s more akin to a collectible piece of art. I think AP’s goal with this collab is to raise awareness for its own brand — which already has crossed over into the worlds of streetwear and fashion where I think the Royal Pop has its strongest appeal — among young people.

A second goal for AP is to bring attention to mechanical watchmaking, as evidenced by the brand’s pledge to donate 100 percent of its Royal Pop proceeds to support an initiative dedicated to building up the next generation of watchmakers.

Swatch’s motivations are obvious. The brand wants to be in headlines, it wants people lining up outside their stores creating buzz and it wants to sell a ton of Royal Pops. Swatch will accomplish all of this by collaborating with AP.

Swatch

I also think Swatch would make a strap for the Royal Pop in a heartbeat if AP signed off on it, but I don’t see that happening. Audemars Piguet, unlike Omega and Blancpain, is not a part of the Swatch Group. It’s an independent brand, so it presumably exerts more control over its Swatch collab than those other brands.

So while I don’t put any credence into the rumors that Swatch will produce a strap for the Royal Pop, that doesn’t mean we aren’t getting one.

Strapped up

Delugs is a premium strapmaker based in Singapore. In recent years, it has become firmly entrenched in the watch enthusiast community on account of the brand’s popular cut-to-size rubber straps fitted with spring-loaded deployant claps. Its rise has also been aided by the brand’s active social media presence and its constant sourcing of ideas from its customers.

Delugs makes custom-fit straps for popular enthusiast watch models like the Tissot PRX and Christopher Ward Twelve, along with the MoonSwatch and even high-end niche brands like De Bethune and MB&F. The brand has even collaborated with several watch brands, including SpaceOne and Awake, to produce factory straps for certain models.

All this is to say that if any third party can make a strap for the Royal Pop, it’s Delugs. And it sounds like it’s going to happen.

Delugs founder Kenneth Kuan took to Instagram earlier today to formally announce that his company has begun work on figuring out how to produce a strap for the Royal Pop. Kuan notes that it will be a challenge given that Delugs will need to produce a case to hold the watch head that then connects to a strap, but he expresses confidence and excitement that his team can pull it off, stating, “We have the R&D and the product team to create something like this.”

Delugs also shared several mockups of what a potential strap could look like, and it’s hard not to get excited by the renders. They show a smaller holder than what’s included with the Royal Pop, complete with the Royal Oak’s traditional integrated end links merging perfectly with a rubber strap.

Delugs

The mockups also display a clever workaround for the lépine-style Royal Pops, which feature the crown at 12:00. Instead of keeping them oriented at 12:00, the renders have the watch heads rotated so that the crown wears closer to 1:30 on the wrist, transforming it into a (very cool) driver’s watch. The two savonnette versions, with the crown at 3:00, obviously make for a more straightforward wristwatch conversion.

Kuan also says in the video that “Project WristPop” is a top priority for Delugs and that the brand is fully committed to making it happen. He concedes that he has no timeline or pricing information yet, and doesn’t yet know what the product will actually look like. But to show their commitment, Delugs already has a landing page for the future product where you can sign up to be notified of developments.

Running shoes vary in capability and design but generally rely on the same suite of specialized materials.

Hoka’s latest release heads in a different direction, reworking its fan-favorite shoe with a well-known natural fiber and retro-inspired styling.

Hoka

All natural

The Clifton is Hoka’s most popular road running model, and while the new Clifton One9 Aerino uses the bestselling shoe as its foundational base, it walks its own path as an elevated lifestyle shoe.

Hoka

The biggest change takes place in the upper: the typical mesh material is swapped out for a merino wool blend, which gives the shoe naturally breathable and odor-resistant properties.

Hoka

Hoka

The proprietary Aerino wool blend offers retro-inspired design, complemented by embroidered design lines and synthetic nubuck suede overlays on the heel and toe.

The silhouette also uses a recycled regrind TPU film on the tongue and heel, which offers flexibility and durability while avoiding the use of virgin petroleum, plus a cork sockliner for additional comfort.

Hoka

While Hoka’s footwear usually features front-and-center branding, the One9 Aerino takes a subtler approach: a small “Hoka” patch on the lateral side of the heel lets the refined upper material shine.

The new unisex take on the longstanding favorite comes in two vibrant color options: Aster Flower/Cosmic Grey and Crabapple/Lilac Cream.

Availability and pricing

The Clifton One9 Aerino is available now on Hoka’s website, retailing for $155.

Hoka

Hoka Clifton One9 Aerino

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Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Since the launch of the Twelve 4 Twelve program last year, Jeep has dropped a variety of different special-edition Wranglers. Some have proven strictly appearance-based, but others have delivered equipment and performance upgrades as well.

For the seventh Wrangler in the installment, the brand is getting a jump on the United States’ birthday celebrations by way of an America250 makeover. It even features a choice Marvel tie-in.

Stellantis

However, as patriotic as the 4×4 looks to be, it nevertheless feels a little lacking. Chalk it up to power if you want, but Canada’s counterpart sure seems like the superior display of national pride. 

Power, tires and so much more

I mean, just look at the differences in the equipment. North of the border, Stellantis Canada’s Rocky Mountain 392 comes based on the Wrangler Moab 392. The A250, on the other hand, is more comparable to a Willys model. 

Stellantis

Accordingly, the Rocky Mountain brings a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 good for a thundering 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It also features a 2.72:1 Selec‑Trac full‑time transfer case along with Tru-Lok and Dana M220 axles, among other upgrades.

By contrast, the United States’ America250 Edition doesn’t come with the same roaring engine under the hood. Instead, buyers can choose a standard Pentastar V6 or an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four.

Stellantis

Moreover, though it does tout rock rails, tow-hooks and special-colored Steel Oxide wheels, it nevertheless brings smaller 33-inch tires and 4.10 gearing as opposed to the Moab’s 35-inch rubber and upgraded 4.56 axle ratio.

Some inclusions, like the body-colored (or, ahem, coloured) fender flares are a wash, as they’re included in both special editions. However, Canada’s Rocky Mountain 392 does bring a more convenient open-air experience thanks to its Sky One-touch power top.

Stellantis

The Super Jeep that could’ve been 

Even when it comes to visuals, Jeep’s Rocky Mountain 392 one-ups the Wrangler A250 in more ways than one. For starters, it brings a look that’s more broadly palatable.

Stellantis

After all, though it also lays claim to its fair share of patriotic inspiration, the result is subtler in execution. Along with a hoodside decal and a custom plaque in the tailgate, the package complements its paint options (Bright White, black and Granite Crystal Metallic) through red stitching and Dark Ruby Red seat belts.

Back on home soil, however, Jeep’s America250 Wrangler adopts a much louder look. Exclusively available in Bright White, it features commemorative fender badging, hood and side stripes, as well as a denim-colored top and a tire cover inspired by Captain America’s shield.

Stellantis

Granted, it’s a natural partnership, as the comic book hero is also celebrating his 85th anniversary this year. Moreover, the tri‑color‑stitched steering wheel, red seat belts and Jean Blue interior, all make for a sharp look throughout the cabin.

Still, it seems a little unsure of what it wants to be. While the A250 is certainly bolder than its Canadian cousin, it’s nevertheless not as committed to its stripes as the Super Jeep. Between the historical reference and the timing of America’s birthday, it’s a look that begged to be brought back, and it feels like a missed opportunity. 

Stellantis

Availability and pricing

Now, if there’s any consolation to be had for avoiding the Moab 392 platform, it’s that Jeep’s Wrangler America250 Edition promises to be much more accessible in its price.

At some $2,095 on top of a comparably equipped Willys model (which starts at $43,755), it’s not nearly the same kind of investment as the Rocky Mountain 392. That starts from $99,995 Canadian.

Arriving soon, you can learn more at Jeep’s respective United States and Canadian websites.

Stellantis

Jeep Wrangler America250 Edition

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Stellantis

Jeep Wrangler Rocky Mountain 392

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Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

The knife world, not unlike the watch world, is subject to more than its fair share of petty debates over the genus and species of various products and components.

The kerfuffles can cover everything from blade shapes to locking mechanisms, but it’s important not to let these quibbles obscure a grander truth.

Jack Wolf Knives

Which is, of course, the fact that an awesome knife is an awesome knife, no matter how you choose to categorize it.

Case in point: The new Feelbetter Jack from Jack Wolf Knives, the best-looking new gentleman’s knife that’s not actually a gentleman’s knife.

Doctor’s orders

So what kind of knife is this, then? As listed on the product page, it’s technically a doctor’s knife.

While this particular pattern has fallen so out of fashion that I’ve never even heard of it before, the wise folks at Knife News break down the back story quite nicely.

Jack Wolf Knives

“The original version featured two implements, a long-ish main blade and a spatula for sorting pills and powders. Speaking of powders, the bolstered butt end was used to crush up pills when the need arose.”

Just as knives have come a long way over the past couple of centuries, so has medical science, so much so that the spatula is no longer a staple of even a country doc’s kit.

(Fellow GP knife knerd Sean Tirman points out that it might have also helped consume that ol’ therapeutic standby, cocaine, but that’s neither here nor there.)

Jack Wolf Knives

Consequently, this modern revival of the form eighty-sixes that aforementioned implement, while retaining the main blade, which in this case is superlative: a 3.38-inch sheepsfoot made of S90V super steel, complete with spine jimping, a fuller and a front flipper tab.

That’s a blade any gentleman/gentlefolk of all kinds can rely on to tackle any task that arises around one’s desk or far afield of it, from letter opening to fruit slicing to slashing through zip-ties in a pinch.

Jack Wolf Knives

The handle scales are equally well appointed; five eye-popping treatments (featuring such premium materials as carbon fiber, Kirinite and purple abalone) leave the knife’s total weight ranging between 2.3 ounces and 2.7 ounces.

While four are pretty colorful, I’d argue that the most “gentlemanly” is the Art Deco-adjacent Dark Blasted Titanium Starburst variant featured on this page.

Jack Wolf Knives

Adding to the overall quality is a frame lock on ceramic bearings with integral bolsters, liners and a pocket clip made of bronze anodized titanium.

Oh, and not that you’ll likely need it, but the butt end looks like it could easily crush a pill in a pinch, Doc.

Availability and pricing

Five variants of the Jack Wolf Knives Feelbetter Jack (the four shown here plus an exclusive Copper Marble Carbon Fiber edition) will be available beginning Friday, May 22, for $350 each.

Jack Wolf Knives

Jack Wolf Knives Feelbetter Jack

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You don’t have to be a car enthusiast to really appreciate all the manual transmission has to offer. Sure, on the one hand, it’s a definitive way to show and embrace your love for driving, four-wheeled machines and the open road.

But the manual has other, more practical perks. It’s with this in mind that Toyota Japan just rolled out some new Corolla models. It’s all to combat distracted driving and teach new drivers to appreciate the act of operating a vehicle and paying attention while motoring about.

Teaching new drivers the art of the manual

Toyota

The manual transmission might be the car enthusiast’s ultimate calling card. However, it has many more practical benefits that can also be hugely beneficial to new drivers.

Three pedals and a stick don’t just keep drivers involved. They also keep them alert and free from distractions. That’s because manual transmissions require constant input and gear changes to maintain momentum.

On the road, this means you can’t pick up the phone to text, scroll TikTok, or fiddle with the radio. You’re too busy shifting gears and anticipating your next move, which depends on what gear you’re in.

Toyota

All of this is the reasoning behind Toyota’s latest Corolla roll out. In addition to porting its 60th Anniversary Edition from the Taiwanese market and refreshing the Japanese Domestic Market Corolla ACTIVE, the Big T also just launched a new base-model trim aimed directly at educating new drivers. And it retains its optional manual.

The Toyota Corolla is arguably the preferred vehicle of choice for most driver education programs. It’s why the company decided to create a special version of the base Corolla aimed specifically at teaching new drivers.

Mechanically and visually, it’s nothing special. Other than the unique Japanese-spec multi-view side-view mirrors, it comes with a stripped-down interior and no infotainment screen.

Toyota

The driver’s ed Corolla still comes with the choice of the model’s regular 1.8-liter four-cylinder-based gas-electric hybrid powertrain and automatic only.

Schools can also specify the gas-only 1.5-liter Dynamic Force naturally aspirated four-cylinder. It’s the only way to get the manual in the standard ‘Rolla.

Now, if only American driver education saw similar benefits and paths to safer drivers…

Toyota Japan finally celebrates the Corolla’s 60th

Toyota

In addition to the special, driver’s ed Corolla, Toyota also finally rolled out updated versions for its Corolla ACTIVE Sport and Corolla Touring ACTIVE Sports with commemorative 60th Anniversary models. The celebratory editions arrive in the Japanese Domestic Market after originally breaking cover in the Taiwanese market.

But the ones in Japan get slightly better perks with sport-tuned suspension (on the two-wheel-drive cars only), black-painted 17-inch wheels and lots of other exterior and interior tweaks.

Toyota

Additionally, JDM customers are lucky to be able to get the regular Corolla Touring wagon. We yanks only get the sedan and the hatchback.

Either way, the writing is on the wall for the end of the current Corolla. It’s been a great eight-year series production run. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next-gen model.

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Windbreakers and technical shells are stereotypically loud and crunchy, but Mountain Hardwear’s latest release flips the script on the traditional wind-resistant jacket.

The Wind Veil Hooded Jacket is whisper-quiet, soft to the touch and just as capable as louder, stiffer jackets on the market. It also costs less than $150, a price point that’s getting harder and harder to find in technical outerwear.

Mountain Hardwear

Winds of change

Made with camping, hiking and travel in mind, the Wind Veil Hooded Jacket is a streamlined, wearable shell that blends packable design, technical features and comfortable materials into one versatile option.

Mountain Hardwear

Constructed with a 100-percent nylon proprietary material called WindWise 20D Micro Rip, the Wind Veil manages to blend superior wind resistance with an ultra-soft feel.

Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear

Functional features include the three-piece hood made with an elastic binding, laminated brim and halo cinch that work in harmony to seal in warmth and keep the wind and weather out. It also features convenient hand pockets, while elasticized cuffs and hem also seal out wind.

A thoughtful sternum snap on the draft flap keeps the jacket connected at the center front, while allowing for maximum ventilation by unzipping the YKK front zip on the go.

Mountain Hardwear

When the wind dies down, the entire jacket packs into its chest pocket and clips to your pack.

At under $135 and with four colorways to choose from, Mountain Hardwear’s latest elevated essential combines affordability and performance.

Availability and pricing

The Wind Veil Hooded Jacket is available now on Mountain Hardwear’s website, retailing for $135.

Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear Wind Veil Hooded Jacket

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