18 Yo Birthday Gift That Can Be Kept?

nickbose on 24/10/2014 - 14:18
Last edited 26/10/2014 - 14:34

My son is turning 18 soon. I want to give him something that he may keep or even use until he is 80!
Of course I will also give him the obvious stuff like Kindle, tablet, watch …
But what about something unique and useful and can LAST? Budget is about $500
Please advise quickly as his Bday is close, thks.

He is still living at home with us for now and the near future

Update 1 after 109 replies:

Skipping the jokes, below are my thoughts

  • Knife: why? what for? cutting apples at picnic? concealed in his hoodie on public transport and get a fine? stabbing people? I can't really understand all the craze about knives collection and I think so does my boy. So I'll pass.
  • Wines / whiskey: Probably not. I am not a drinker and don't expect / want my boy to be. One or two occasional beers and a glass of fruity champagne is enough for us.
  • Experience: Nice suggestion but both of us are not into things like car racing, footy/soccer and stuff. So - crossed from the list.
  • Travel: We will have a holiday together anyway and I am the protective type of parent and can't let him go alone or with young friends on an overseas trip at this age yet (the most he has been away from home was a 5 day cadet outdoor trip in the bush).
  • Shares: Great in the long run, but doesn't meet the "can be used" point and also is not appreciated by him right now.
  • Zippo lighter: I know it can be used for other purposes, but I would be out of my mind to give him a thing to light up cigarettes.

  • Jewelry/necklace: sounds OK but the problem is he has never really worn any so I don't know about his taste - would be very difficult to choose something that he WILL like or wear. So probably not.

  • Watch: Definetely shortlisted. I read about Seiko a bit as one said it was no way high-end - that person may not know about such thing as Grand Seiko. I read it may come at US$ 400,000! I may consider an automatic, or even Spring Drive Seiko if it can be found in a stretched budget of $1000 - any comments?

  • Also as I mentioned, whether I go the watch option or not I will also likely get a pair of cufflinks - the Griffin is a really neat idea as he likes those fancy, legendary things a lot. Any pointer - which one, where?
  • Good leather luggage: a very good idea. The saddlebackleather looks like great heirloom quality. But, 100 years warranty from a single guy that just started his business 15 years ago? Anything similar and Australian-made? I am only first gen Aussie but would love to give my boy some nice leather stuff locally made. Suggestions?
  • Tools: A Leatherman sounds fine. Even though he is of the nerdy type, not handy this is still shortlisted.

So I'd like to ask for more specific suggestion/elaboration on these shortlisted items: watch, high-end leather luggage, and tools. Later I may set up a poll on certain shortlisted brands for your votes - thanks.

(I decide just to give him something simple first like a Kindle for example, then the official, heirloom-quality one will be given at a later date when he finishes his VCE as those would be too much of a distraction to him now that he is studying hard)

General Discussion

Comments

    • zond on 23/09/2015 - 15:31

      I stand corrected!! the current price is now $3.70… glad I followed my own advice…

  • CandyMan on 27/10/2014 - 09:03

    How about a golden Parker pen
    Legendary… He'll remember you each time he signs an important bargain

  • Shadowsfury on 27/10/2014 - 09:38

    Paying for a Dale Carnegie public speaking course (or something similar).

    Might be an experience but it'll be useful/used for the rest of his life.

    • StewBalls on 27/10/2014 - 09:43
      +1

      Better off to get him into Toastmasters for that…

  • anastasiastarz on 27/10/2014 - 09:49

    Cufflinks with your family crest on it.

  • djones145 on 27/10/2014 - 10:20
    +1

    super account
    cause he's going to be working for the next 40 years to save for his retirement and you aint going to help him with that cause you have saved up for urself!

    ozbargain account!
    cause he needs to learn to start saving!

    • CandyMan on 27/10/2014 - 12:31
      +1

      I agree
      Introduce him to OZB
      He'll thank you every morning

    • malkakas on 27/10/2014 - 17:01
      +1

      His retirement would be at age of 70. so he's got 52 years to work.

      • djones145 on 28/10/2014 - 08:11

        lol true

        • StewBalls on 29/10/2014 - 10:29

          Until they shift the goalposts again that is; we might all be working til we're octogenarians at the rate we're travelling!

  • yappyyap on 27/10/2014 - 11:27
    +1

    If he is a nerd then I suggest and old vintage video game system = Nintendo Entertainment System boxed. Only going up in value by the day

  • 000lynx on 27/10/2014 - 12:19
    +4

    "•Zippo lighter: I know it can be used for other purposes, but I would be out of my mind to give him a thing to light up cigarettes."

    holy crap, you sound like a huge square! Your son is 18, not 10 years old.

    if you don't trust him with a ceremonial birthday lighter at this stage, there is something wrong.

    • [Deactivated] on 27/10/2014 - 14:32

      +1

  • hangdog on 27/10/2014 - 12:50

    A DNA Ancestry Test Kit from National Geographic? http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/browse/productDetail.jsp?…

    But realistically I agree with those who suggest an experience (like travel) rather than an heirloom. At that age, experiences are more important, more formative, than things.

  • madseason on 27/10/2014 - 13:15

    If it is something he may be interested in, a really nice acoustic guitar. I got one for my 21st and I'll be keeping it forever.

  • [Deactivated] on 27/10/2014 - 13:22
    +1

    How about getting him a tattoo?
    https://www.google.com.au/search?q=tattoo+love+heart+mom&cli…

  • edgar28 on 27/10/2014 - 13:47

    Gold pendant

  • lplau on 27/10/2014 - 15:10

    Zippo Hand Warmer?? haha

  • lplau on 27/10/2014 - 15:16
    +3

    Kids nowadays don't know a heirloom even if it hit them in the face.
    Sadly times have changed.

  • cams884 on 27/10/2014 - 15:26

    My mum gave me a small bronze statue by Pete Smit for my 18th. http://cobblecastaustralia.com/

    Locally made, unique piece of artwork. Probably didn't think it was the most exciting gift at the time, but it has value and is long lasting. Now 31 it is definitely still in my display cabinet.

  • kelvinate on 27/10/2014 - 17:18

    I know its quite late to the game already but here is my 1c.

    A fountain pen, a good quality one will be delight to write with and will definitely last a long time if cared for and maintained properly. Unlike a watch, a $500 budget will get you something in the middle to top range.

    • lplau on 27/10/2014 - 19:07

      Or a really nice pen engraved with his name on it.
      Not many youngsters use fountain pens, its a dying art.

  • SydStrand on 27/10/2014 - 17:28

    Forget the super account, give him a holiday. He's 18 and going to get wasted whether you like it or not, just comes down to whether he does it in Thailand or Surfers. The backpacker trail is fairly well traveled now, and only from some freak accident or terrible luck is it dangerous. Even the FMP is fairly tame these days and most deaths are due people getting separated from friends and drowning. If he's as nerdy as you suggest, he'll refrain from the more risky behaviour, make some memories and thank you later.

    If that's too saucy, then a nice mechanical watch or briefcase could work (but you need to make sure he picks it out). I think a good leather jacket is a very nice alternative whether he rides a bike or not. A Schott Perfecto is a timeless jacket that will last a lifetime if cared for.

  • Brandenm on 27/10/2014 - 17:57

    When I turned 18 (2.5 years ago) my dad got me a tool set. At first I thought what the (profanity) as If I'm going to ever get use out of this.
    Best present ever as I still have it to this day, constantly find use of it & will have it for ever.

  • whatthecrappin on 27/10/2014 - 18:06
    +1

    I've still got my guitar which my parents gave me when 16. No way I'd let it out of my sight. Waaaay too much sentimental value. No idea if your son plays an instrument or not so it could be totally irrelevant

  • abbztract on 27/10/2014 - 18:09

    21 here.

    If he has a car, give him $500 for fuel or insurance or his registration.

    If he doesn't have a car, help him get a car. A car = freedom. He will love you forever for doing that. I can't put into words how much.

    If none of those sound good, clothing can be an option. Take him shopping. Maybe he doesn't dress well and it'd be better if he did. I dressed terribly in my VCE years and now that's better and I'm happier for that.

    Maybe he does dress nice and might have a few things he would like to get but can't because he doesn't have enough.

    Maybe get him nice earphones. Maybe get him a new phone.

    Whatever you do, I'd look at it in one of two ways:

    Get him something that he will actually use and use regularly.

    Or.

    Get him something that will help him out with his future ie better dress sense or a car.

    If my parents had done any of these things when I finished VCE, I would've been at a much better position now.

    • [Deactivated] on 28/10/2014 - 16:58

      Im also 21 and agree with this. Dont get him a fountain pen or a katana or a pocket knife because they are most likely going to be useless to him.

      Good ideas are a really nice watch or something else to improve appearance like clothes. Money for car/car maintenance or money to help fund an overseas holiday. Hes 18, hes most likely going to want to be travelling soon.

  • xlimit on 27/10/2014 - 19:08

    As some have already mentioned LOOK NO FURTHER:

    A LEATHERMAN!!! The perfect gift for the transformation of a boy into a man. (I have a skeletool and charge TTi, both under $150 and has the most cool factor for me.

    OR a NICE WATCH. Citizen Eco-drives or Seiko watches are great first time watches. Timeless

    Don't bother with electronics and things, they get replaced and forgotten within a year or two. Leatherman has a lifetime warranty and watches…well…can last.

    DO NOT GIVE money or pay for bills/services as they will be quickly forgotten. Seriously, who would want to brag about their paid off CTP.

  • jason101 on 27/10/2014 - 19:27
    +1

    I think you're already on the right track, I bought myself a nice watch when I was 21, I still wear it today (36) - Tag Heuer, I think you can get other Swiss brands starting around $500 like Tissot, best purchase I've ever made.

    • jzx100 on 28/10/2014 - 12:46

      Yep, A nice watch says a great deal about a man. I dad bought me a Tissot watch for my 18th, I still have it and wear it till this day. Even though I've had it for 14 years, I still get compliments about how nice it looks.

  • Blurry on 27/10/2014 - 19:45

    Lol who doesnt drink too much when they turn 18…

  • jordanlaa on 27/10/2014 - 20:38

    Another +1 for a nice automatic watch. A watch can last a lifetime, not only will it be used by him, but can likely be passed to his children. Furthermore, if his father/grandfather has a nice watch (many families have Automatic Rolexs from when they were not so expensive) I would definitely recommend this and then you could spend the money on something else.

    If you go with watch, make sure it is automatic, not only will it increase in value but it's also going to last indefinitely with occasional services. I would recommend Seiko, Omega (Seamaster/Speedmaster professional(not sure on the price of this)), Baume et Mercier or NOMOS. Of course, the prices vary a lot so you'll have to research a bit for yourself.

    Another suggestion is leather goods, although they may not last his lifetime, a quality wallet, belt, bag or shoes will last for a long time and they will be used daily!

  • jace88 on 27/10/2014 - 20:53

    First thought was a watch but with a $500 budget it might be a stretch.

    Really nice wine glasses or a decanta?

  • frinik on 27/10/2014 - 21:12

    I'm a bit late to the conversation…you seem to have shut down a lot of good ideas.
    1. Does/can he cook? a really good set of kitchen knives will last a lifetime.
    2. Australia has a culture of drinking… get him some whiskey from the year he was born. Just because you get him some alcohol will not instantly make him an alcoholic. You said it yourself he was the nerdy type, and nerdy types are generally quite level headed when it comes to alcohol.
    3. I've got 2 Leathermans myself, these things are great. Use it for everything.
    4. Does he have a car? Buy him a junker and fix it up with him. He'll learn new skills and you'll get to spend time with him.
    5. You wont let him travel overseas at 18? I'm not a parent and dont know your son, but you may want to loosen up a bit. The only way he'll become street smart is with experiences.
    6. Anything where he can learn new skills, will last a lifetime.
    7. http://reddit.com/r/buyitforlife

  • freefall101 on 27/10/2014 - 21:30

    Seems a bit of a personal area, really. For me, a nice instrument would be the perfect gift. Obviously not going to be for everyone. Going a generic high end gift seems a little cliche (watch, cufflinks, whatever). And it's stuff I would have loved at 25, at 18 I mostly wanted to get hammered with my mates…

    Anyway, to actually be helpful…

    Headphones, a really good set. A cool gift might be some D5000's, a record player and some records. Headphones don't change too much though. Amp + speakers could be his thing too.
    Sure on the booze? Make sure you're not writing off what he wants. A good 18 yo scotch could go down a treat (or a Japanese one. Lagavulin's Pedro Ximenez would be from his year of birth, better than a bottle of grange too), or just some johnny gold to pretend to be fancy with his mates with.
    Shoes - A good pair of Allen Edmonds. Or a good pair of hiking boots. Something that'll last a lifetime.
    Laptop bag - I got a nice leather laptop bag a couple of years ago, use it quite a lot.
    Leather belt - proper full grain leather. I bought a few of these about a decade ago, didn't cost much. Still amazing today, because they gain character instead of falling apart.
    A shave. A proper one. It's worth doing once.

    • Wallyt99 on 28/10/2014 - 00:02

      The turntable is a great idea. They no longer make the technics sl1200 series. They are already increasing in value.

      • Davo1111 on 28/10/2014 - 00:38
        +1

        really? I hate the record player idea.

        I'd rather an external amp (that runs off usb), or a pair of quality headphones (make sure the cord is replacable).

  • spychiatrist on 27/10/2014 - 23:06

    Gold coin or bullion. It will be up to your kid if he wants to keep it and pass it to his future kids, or sell it for himself in the future.

    • Davo1111 on 28/10/2014 - 00:36
      +1

      I've recently been looking at smelting on youtube, i just can't see value in keeping raw materials like gold or silver. You've gotta find a place that will trade it, and you'll lose a signficant percentage.

      Might as well just buy him shares, or put $1000 into a high interest account.

  • Davo1111 on 28/10/2014 - 00:35

    Knife: why? what for? cutting apples at picnic? concealed in his hoodie on public transport and get a fine? stabbing people? I can't really understand all the craze about knives collection and I think so does my boy. So I'll pass.

    My knife is in my top drawer next to my computer. It's pretty damn useful, and i've never stabbed anyone with it (Y).

    If it's a good quality folding one, he will have it for all his life. Someone here also suggested a leatherman, which could be a good middle ground. They're handy, you can fix things, and you can rely on it.

  • Davo1111 on 28/10/2014 - 00:39

    Slim jim aka a lockout tool. It will pay for itself after its first use and last a lifetime.

    • johnno07 on 30/10/2014 - 10:57

      For a mum that doesn't want to buy her kid alcohol or a knife - I somehow think that a slim jim is not going to fly.

      • eug on 30/10/2014 - 12:51

        "nickbose" is a mum?

        • StewBalls on 30/10/2014 - 12:54
          +1

          I know the name seems antithetical to the concept; but for some reason, reading between the lines I've been getting a 'mum' vibe from the OP too! ;)

        • johnno07 on 30/10/2014 - 15:18

          After I wrote that comment I noticed that their username was 'nickbose'. But, as StewBalls said above - was definitely getting a mum vibe. If their username is actually indicative of their real name at all, it could easily still be short for Nicole or the like.

  • chiefbodge on 28/10/2014 - 01:33

    Agree with the suggestions of swiss army knife - would've loved something like that when I was 18. Also would've loved a Zippo (even though I've never smoked I think they are great).

    I definitely wouldn't have appreciated (and still wouldn't) anything sentimental like cuff links or a family photo, I guess some people like that kinda stuff though.

    Watch I'm a bit torn on, I've never worn one and I'm not sure I ever would.

    I would say swiss army knife or a good quality tool kit would be the best gifts.

    • eatwell365 on 28/10/2014 - 03:11

      swiss army knife with a nice leather pouch.

  • tonester on 28/10/2014 - 04:33

    for those of you watching this thread from inception, the op updated himself:

    Update 1 after 109 replies:

    So I'd like to ask for more specific suggestion/elaboration on these shortlisted items: watch, high-end leather luggage, and tools. Later I may set up a poll on certain shortlisted brands for your votes - thanks.

    watch - sorry but there are no heirloom-quality mechanical watches <$1k :(

    consider https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/166717?page=1#comment-2325… instead :)

    leather goods - as you're in melb, visit hunt leather in the cbd and check out il bisonte for the best leather goods around which develop a patina over time with use - i have the same wallet and bag from them since last century :)

    aussie-made are mark honoré, tailfeather, temono

    tool - wooden swiss army knife (victorinox, wenger)

    cufflinks - https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/166717?page=1#comment-2324…

    i agree, though, that 18th birthday gifts should perhaps be on the fun/experiential side, such as skydiving, saving serious/heirloom pieces for his 21st

  • Wizard of Oz on 28/10/2014 - 08:31

    I'd like to put my two cents in and vote on to quality tools. I have 4 younger brothers the youngest being 18 and I think it's important to teach kids how to use there hands and develop skills they will carry through for the rest of their lives. I brought my husband back then boyfriend a 18volt makita drill set, which came with 2 lithium batteries, a drill and a hammer drill, which he has used consistently on the home that we are renovating together. He has brought extra skins that attach to the same batteries thus adding to the collection. I had researched all the drills and weighed up that this one was the best value for my money at the time, it was just under $500 but they have come down in price since then. Not saying you have to go with a Makita there are other awesome brands out there, e.g dewalt.

    My second suggestion would be an electric guitar, your son sounds like a smart kid and would probably enjoy the challenge of learning to play, which can be as technical or as basic as he wants it to be. If he has an interest in music there's some great entry level guitars and you can get some awesome ones on gumtree second hand, I picked up my vintage ibanez for $400 and the sound is heaven. I still have the first guitar my dad gave me when I was six years old and I could never get rid of it due to the emotional attachment. There are plenty of videos on YouTube and online tutorials teaching how to play, of course there are other instruments but nothing gives the flexibility of learning styles quite like a guitar, of course I'm biased!

    Any way hope this helps, good luck!

  • snook on 28/10/2014 - 11:22

    All these gifts are a waste of money. I have all of these things from my past and none of them get used or have any sentimental value.

    Experiences have more lasting value, especially good quality shared experiences. The consumer mentality is completely overrated.

    If you want to spend money, put it in an account and give him that with a practical explanation of compound interest. I wish someone had explained this to me 40 years ago. That information would have been priceless.

    • muncan on 28/10/2014 - 11:45
      +1

      The laws of compound interest do not work here on OzBargain

  • voteoften on 28/10/2014 - 12:05

    Don't think you are finished with shelling out bucks for this young man. You've only just begun. Leave the meaningful lifelong gifts for a birthday after his 21st. He won't appreciate it now. He will appreciate a bunch of cash to go out and have some fun with his mates.

  • [Deactivated] on 28/10/2014 - 13:04
    +5

    After reading the update Nickbose I suggest a pair of handcuffs and a key to the front door to escape your clutches might be the order of the day.

    On a more serious note I've yet to hear anybody who wasn't enthralled by the experience of a ballon ride followed by brunch. As a "nerdy", somewhat protected young man (nothing wrong with that) it sounds like he needs to get out and experience LIFE rather than accumulate trinkets. You know him best but broadening his horizons might just be the best thing you'll ever give him.

    • tikei on 28/10/2014 - 18:18

      +1
      18 year olds all love new experiences. he might be nerdy and seem like he's disinterested, but it's probably because he's not confident in getting out of his comfort zone, not because he doesn't like to try new things.

    • voteoften on 29/10/2014 - 21:09

      Balloon rides are boring. The breakfasts they provide are crap and the landings can be very rough.

  • bargdebarg on 28/10/2014 - 16:51

    I think you made the right decision to hold off on the watch for now. Get it for him when he is 21. When I was 18 I didn't look after things as well as 21.

  • suicine94 on 28/10/2014 - 17:43
    -3

    ps4eva

  • tikei on 28/10/2014 - 18:15

    don't get a watch. You will not be able to find an heirloom quality watch for under 1k.

  • Pungentia on 28/10/2014 - 19:12

    I would go with giving him an experience… at that age, the experience of your first big trip will give a lifetime of memories. My first big solo (without family) trip (with my now husband) at age 21 is something I will always remember.

    I'd definitely go the experience angle.. tastes change, many people don't wear watches anymore, cufflinks aren't generally worn much either.. a bottle of grange an 18 year old isn't going to appreciate.. a life time's experience will always be with him.

    • [Deactivated] on 28/10/2014 - 19:22

      Yep. Seeing your favourite groups/performers when they are at their peak and experiencing the gig with others of similar taste and enthusiasm will stick with him for a loooong time. Pay for his best friend to give him company as well if you have to.

  • Dakkith on 28/10/2014 - 19:26

    Perhaps a high quality wet shaving kit (safety razor, badger hair brush, etc…)?

    Eg: http://www.mensbiz.com.au/shaving/shave-kits/mens-biz-deluxe…

  • rappy68 on 29/10/2014 - 00:12

    Not sure if anyone has posted this yet but how about seeking out items from the day they were born.
    For example old/local newspapers, old magazines that they would like. If they are into a sport find a shirt or magazine from this time

    Another one could be a really nice personal grooming kit - nail clippers, tweezers, etc.

    Or even a family tree book or document noting their heritage/history.

  • itosh1o on 29/10/2014 - 10:14

    I could not reccomend a pair of RM Williams boots more highly. Should last 20 years if reasonably taken care of. The best and classic colour is Chestnut, and the RPP is about $440 for the Yearling (Cow) leather. If you want to go a bit more special (and expensive) then you can get either Lamb or Kangaroo leather custom made for him specifically.

    Hope that helps!

  • sparkles on 29/10/2014 - 10:18

    At age 18 all I cared about was a car. $500 to go towards future car?

    Or a trip to schoolies. Let him live a little.

  • crudman on 29/10/2014 - 21:42
    +1

    What about a wench for a night? He'll never forget

    • crudman on 29/10/2014 - 21:58

      Some more tame options include:

      Cologne is the standard choice… a large bottle will probably last 20 years depending on how much he uses it. You can still keep the bottle for decoration after.

      You can get good grey market Swiss watches from Amazon for less than 1/2 the price of watch stores here.

      Cufflinks are cool but they will get lost, put in pocket etc, possibly even knocked off if careless. If he will never work in an office then he will probably only use them for weddings… if he even buys shirts with cuffs… if they are too nice then it could suffer from 'it's too good to wear'

      If you want it to last it's going to have to be more ornamental than useful.

      Give him a zippo he will show all his friends who will want a 'go'. Then they drop it, oops?

      Electronics tools will not last 60 years. Non-electronic tools would be a better choice.

      Shoes are a bad choice… people still grow when they are 18. They are also not designed to last 60 years when worn. Probably 2 years… somewhat more if 'built to last' military style.

      Experiences will get forgotten(especially at 80) unless it is 'that good' like my previous post… or with a photo to jog your memory

      This is the 18th… you still have the 21st…

      Give him the knowledge of the value of money… get him nothing.

  • cribbydave on 29/10/2014 - 22:01
    +3

    I would have thought an 18 year old would appreciate a good backpack / travel pack more than leather luggage. Its potentially step one in a whole lot of adventures. I've still got my 20 year old macpac travel pack and still use it occasionally and it brings back a lot of memories when I do use it. You can use them as a pillows, seats, floatation device, dog repeller …

    • PandaChan on 30/10/2014 - 00:37

      dog repeller lol

  • PandaChan on 30/10/2014 - 00:37

    Obviously the ONE RING from the Lord of the RINGS!!!

  • CleverCounter on 30/10/2014 - 08:39

    I can't remember what I got when I was 18, so don't put so much pressure on yourself to get the perfect gift… because in a few years it won't matter. Just get him something fun he can enjoy now! Knife and watches are terrible ideas… what is he into or studying?

  • andy19363 on 30/10/2014 - 09:34

    When I was 18, I got a small, fairly plain, gold signet ring from my parents, (both long gone…). Have worn it every day since (33 years).
    I think with jewellery, it's not so much about what it is…. more about what it means. Mine's not worn to impress - too plain… It's worn because it was given to me, by people that loved me and it will be worn until I lose it or die.

  • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 30/10/2014 - 11:38

    $500 call girl. Experience he won't forget until he's 80.

    • crudman on 30/10/2014 - 19:26

      it's probably his first time and since he's 18 he's gonna get extra special treatment

  • Zondor on 30/10/2014 - 13:37

    My leatherman is one of the best gift's I got for my 18th.

    Saved my ass so many times in alot of various situations.

  • whitefox on 30/10/2014 - 15:08

    A quality shaving set is something he would probably use every day and if looked after, could possibly last a lifetime.

    I have just purchased this one for myself- http://www.shaverhut.com.au/muhle-gillette-fusion-pure-badge…

    I love it, it makes shaving enjoyable.

  • mapleice on 30/10/2014 - 19:07

    A Tattoo, it's about the only thing that will definitely last till he is 80. It also falls within your budget. Just be sure to get something that he won't regret, maybe such as favourite car, animal, hobby with an 18 thrown in for rememberance ;)

  • scyth3r on 30/10/2014 - 20:46

    A high end vintage turntable from the 70's/80's. It's already survived 30-40years so you know it will last. Or maybe a new turntable from Pro-ject

  • piglet1 on 30/10/2014 - 21:57

    A good wallet? A ring? I still have this ring that my mum bought when she was a teenager… It was gifted to me and i've been wearing it for the past 10+ years.

  • nickbose on 08/11/2014 - 00:30

    A second update after 279 replies. Thanks for all the suggestions. Below are my thoughts

    • Many of you voted for multitools. So for tools - I looked at the Victorinox Cybertool, but decide it will be Victorinox SwissTool. Some say the SwissTool RS or SwissTool III are built tougher than the Spirit series - which particular one you'd suggest and where from? Amazon seems to have good price.
    • Wines: again, no. Saying Australia has a culture of drinking is just like saying we have a culture of gambling, or smoking for example. I am not against drinking. I enjoy a few beers or a glass of port from time to time but I don't encourage my son to start drinking early.
    • Watch: he is wearing a solar G-shock and I bought him a Skagen chronograph last year too. He liked the Skagen but broke the glass after just a few months. He likes the mesh band of the Skagen. I will go with an automatic one. The Steinhart suggested here looks very good http://www.steinhartwatches.de/en/OCEAN-1-BLACK,14.html I may head over to Watchuseek for more advice. BTW I don't believe in the watch snobs theory that no watch under 1 grand is serious and long lasting. I did look at Seiko, Titan Edge, Tissot Lecloc, Orient Star. Any specific suggestion at my initial budget of $500 or stretching abit.
    • Pen: Not very practical. He's got 2 good quality Parkers from his grandparents. He damaged one and did not use much the other. Something like a Montblanc can easily get lost anyway.
    • Flashlight: I am myself actually very much into flashlight. I have a small collection among them are a $300 4 XML-2 TinyMonster 3400 lumens, a Niwalker 5223 lumens, a titanium Sunwayman Sirius. But my boy doesn't pay much attention (yet). Anyway I don't think it's a gift that last.

    So to sum it up: a multitool, most likely Victorinox SwissTool, and an automatic watch. Budget for the two will be 1K. Please comment.

  • altomic on 08/11/2014 - 13:03

    I don't know if this has been suggested but a piece of art. When I was 18 I bought my self a limited edition hand painted lithograph by Jeffrey smart. Over 20 years later it has pride of place on my living room wall.

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