Hello everyone, and welcome to another Singaporean article! On this shiok Sunday, I’ve rounded up a list of 10 Christmas Gifts ideas from mainly local brands, all of which are personalisable for that added personal touch.
It’s surreal that it’s already December – 2020 has simply flew by. This year has been terrible in many ways, but it’s still within our hands to end the year off with a bang. And what better way to do that than with a thoughtful Christmas gift for your loved ones?
Without further ado, let’s get into this listicle!
Watches:
Perhaps more so than any other item on this list, watches often possess emotional attachment – it’s not uncommon to for people to purchase a watch to commemorate special occasions.
1) Aries Gold
If you’re on a tight budget, Aries Gold watches provide stunning value at a sub-S$200 price point.
Who they are: “Amid an ambitious global expansion blueprint, Aries Gold is now an international brand sold in 28 countries (including USA, Australia, Germany) – a hard-earned milestone for the only “Made in Singapore” watch brand. After a successful collaboration with International Rock Band Foo Fighters last year, Aries Gold continues to break new grounds by collaborating with International Rock Band Aerosmith in 2017 to promote their unique code: Combining worldclass design with quality watchmaking.”
My opinion: Aries Gold is a brand that is often scoffed upon by watch enthusiasts, and I think that’s a shame. Personally, I sincerely believe that Aries Gold offers some of the best value propositions that you can get for ~S$200. Take the Jolter (pictured above) for example – you get a mecha-quartz chronograph with a skeletonised dial, a big date aperture, bracelet, sapphire crystal and even lume for just S$190 (after promo code below)! The design language is great as well, and with a wide catalog, there’s bound to be something available for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or someone looking to get his first watch, Aries Gold provides a lot for very little. Customers can also opt for a text engraving on the caseback for a mere 5 USD, making their watches solid gift options as well.
Review: I reviewed the Aries Gold Jolter here, the Aries Gold Cruiser here, the Aries Gold Roadster here, the Aries Gold El Toro here, the Aries Gold Vanguard here, and the new Aries Gold Black Sea here. I also did an article on why I believe that they are one of the best watch brands under S$200 here.
Where to buy: Click here. Aries Gold is also a partner of Wah So Shiok – readers can enjoy a crazy 50% off all products on their web-store. Simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” upon checkout to enjoy the discount!
2) UNDONE
Best known for their affordable customisable watches, UNDONE has managed to establish themselves in their niche despite the relatively short span of time that they have been around. If you truly want to customise a watch, UNDONE is the way to go.
Who they are: “Established in 2014, UNDONE is the world’s leading custom watch label founded by a team of dedicated watch industry veterans. The core philosophy of the company is enabling everyone from all walks of life to create their unique personalized watch at a great value without sacrificing quality. By combining traditional watchmaking with modern-day technology, UNDONE grants people the power to narrate their perception of time through their tailor-made watches. The production of all UNDONE brand products is made in-house, allowing their team to have full control over every aspect that goes into the making of their unique watches.”
My opinion: If you like customising your watches, you can’t go wrong with UNDONE. The UNDONE customisation tool is a breeze and a joy to use, and one really gets the satisfaction when strapping a custom made (to one’s design impetus!) watch on the wrist. Despite the custom made nature of most of their watches, UNDONE’s prices are fairly reasonable – prices (after promo code below) starts at just $204 USD/ ~$290 SGD for the Urban Chronograph when paired with a perlon strap. Overall, I find UNDONE watches great for not only meaningful gifts, but also an outlet for one to express their individuality. From now until 25 December, enjoy complimentary add-ons (worth $50) with the purchase of any non-collaboration pieces (Aqua, Aero, Basecamp, Urban, Urban 34, and Terra). Free add-ons include initials printing on the watch dial, as well as engraving or photo printing on the caseback.
Reviews: I have reviewed multiple UNDONE watches till date – I reviewed the UNDONE Aqua, the UNDONE Urban Vintage, the UNDONE Urban Tropical, the UNDONE Urban Ultraman, the UNDONE Urban Peanuts, the UNDONE Basecamp, the UNDONE Monopoly, the UNDONE Type XX, the UNDONE Zen Cartograph, and the UNDONE Batman. The UNDONE Urban Chronograph (pictured above) is currently my favourite due to its vintage looks, though I love the Urban Type XX as well for its clean “panda” look.
Where to buy: UNDONE’s web-store. UNDONE is also a partner of Wah So Shiok – readers enjoy 10% off products on their web-store! Just quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy the discount.
3) H2 Hub
If your think your loved ones would prefer a more traditional watch from a “household brand”, then I suggest getting a personalised Seiko watch from local watch retailer, H2 Hub!
Who they are: “We are a leading retailer of mid-price watches and watch accessories for men and women. Our portfolio of must-have brands from around the world is curated to include styles and movements for every taste and price point.”
My opinion: To me, H2 Hub makes for a great AD partner as they are an established homegrown brand with multiple locations in heartland malls, with a focus on affordable watches. Granted, H2 Hub does sell multiple fashion watch brands, but they also offer watches for the serious watch collector, thus catering to both segments of the watch market. In personal experience, H2 Hub has some of the lowest prices for Seiko timepieces in the market – I got my Seiko Cocktail Time “Irish Coffee” from them! And yes, you can still personalise the caseback of the watch with text or image of your choice. If you’re looking for a recommendation, I would suggest going for the new Seiko Presage SRPE 41J1 “Negroni”, currently available for just S$432 (after promo code below). The blood red dial is simply spectacular, and it is probably the best Seiko you can get for under $500 currently. Till the 25th of December, H2 Hub is also offering free gift wrapping, free engraving, free local shipping, and a free personalised greeting card with every purchase, making them a great choice for Christmas gifting.
Reviews: I drafted a list of watches that I would get from H2 Hub here.
Where to buy: H2 Hub’s web-store. H2 Hub is also a partner of Wah So Shiok – readers enjoy 5% off all products on their web-store! Just quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy the discount.
Perfume:
As Phase 3 is hopefully on the horizon, we should be returning to normalcy pretty soon. That means actually having to go to work, dining out, attending events, parties, etc. A personalised bottle of perfume would be the perfect accompaniment to your loved ones’ lifestyle, no matter the situation!
4) Maison 21G
Maison 21G specialises in “tailor-made perfumes”, allowing customers to create their own unique scent at an affordable price.
Who they are: “We’re a House of Scent Designers. Come inside and feel empowered to experiment with the finest ingredients. With us, you’ll be able to unlock your soul scent. Free of all toxins and hazards, this is a scent of your own. Made by you, for you.”
My opinion: I love Maison 21G – they are undoubtedly one of my personal favourites on this list. Firstly, their Duxton road boutique is welcoming and beautifully designed. Secondly, I love their concept of “tailoring” a scent for yourself. As you guys know, I’m quite big on tailoring, and was immensely intrigued by the concept of bringing the same notion over to fragrances. How Maison 21G works is simple – they have over 30 different solo scents, and which customers can combine to make their own unique scent. According to the brand, there are over a hundred different combinations for customers to explore! My favourite has to be combining Tea Time with Terrific Tonka, as well as Cannabis Cloud with Ginger Game. Maison 21G also offers a perfume workshop, where participants can learn about the history and art of perfume making, as well as get the opportunity to bespoke their own scent. Oh yes – Maison 21G also offers free engraving on each of their perfume bottles, so they make for great gifts as well! Perfume roll-ons are also available for those that prefer non-alcoholic products. For those interested, I chronicled my experience of attending a workshop at Maison 21G’s Duxton outlet here, and at their new ION outlet here.
Prices: A 25ml EDP bottle (combination of two scents) starts at $80, while their perfume workshop starts at $120. As Maison 21G is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, readers can quote the promo code “WAHSOSHIOK” upon checkout to enjoy 15% off all products and workshops online!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their online store here, or visit their lovely boutique over at 77 Duxton Road.
5) Scent by Six
If customising sounds like too much of a hassle for you, Scent by Six is a great alternative.
Who they are: “A cocktail mix of emotions and memories, SIX’s fine fragrances are inspired by destinations and immersive spaces aimed to appeal to your wanderlust.”
My opinion: SIX burst into the local fragrance scene in 2016 with its initial trio of perfumes, the Tribeca, Puka and my favourite, the Biei. Packaged in a svelte black form factor – it looks more like a lip balm than a perfume bottle – the scents were meant to evoke the smells and vibe of the namesake locations. I found the concept of perfumes inspired by locations (which the founder had been to and loved) immensely intriguing. The scents are very unique as well, unlike anything I’ve ever smelt. The founder, Jason, actually worked at world-renowned fragrance house Givaudan for 4 years, and used that expertise to develop scents for his own brand. For those who desire a more exotic scent, SIX is definitely a good option to consider. The best part? Their perfume bottles are refillable, so you can simply buy a refill (at a much lower price) when you run out. Not only is it economically friendly, it’s environmentally friendly as well. Customers can also opt for engraving on the bottles. For more information, do read my review of Scent by SIX here, and my review of their perfume workshop here.
Prices: A 20ml EDT bottle starts at $66 while refills costs $45. As Scent by SIX is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, readers can quote the promo code “WAHSOSHIOK” upon checkout to enjoy 10% off all products online!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their online store here, or visit their physical stores at Bugis Junction.
6) The Lab Fragrances
For those that prefer stronger and longer lasting scents, the Lab Fragrances offer perfumes made from quality ingredients at an affordable price.
Who they are: “At a time where fine fragrances are mass marketed and mass produced, The LAB Fragrances proposes unique scents freshly hand made in small batches with the wearer’s name printed on the label. It chooses to tell only one story; that of its highest quality ingredients.”
My opinion: What makes a perfume is the quality of its ingredients, and in that regard the LAB Fragrances really stands out. The brand are proud and transparent about the ingredients that they use – instead of being opaque about them like most big brands, the ingredients take centre stage with the LAB Fragrances. The hand-blended scents are made in small batches to ensure high-quality control, and the range of offerings available are intriguing, to say the least. My favourite has to be the Earl Grey – I was really surprised by its strength and intensity – but there are numerous other notable creations, such as Rose Oud and Peach Musk. All perfume bottles also come with the wearer’s name on the label, so they make for great gifts as well! For those that are into more uncommon scents, you need to check out the LAB Fragrances. Perfume oils are also available for those who prefer non-alcoholic products.
Prices: A 50ml EDP bottle starts at $98. As the LAB Fragrances is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, readers can enjoy a complimentary vial of their newest fragrance, Jasmine! Simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” in the additional comments section upon checking out.
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their online store here. For those that want to try before they buy, the full list of the LAB Fragrances’ stockists can be found here.
Wallets:
The classic gift. If you don’t know what to get as a gift, get a wallet – it’s a safe choice.
7) Faire Leather
One of my personal favourites, Faire Leather offers wallets that are simply packed with functionality – definitely a practical gift.
Who they are: Faire Leather Co. describes themselves as “a men’s leather goods online label that redefines true value as Functional Luxury at a Fair Price.” Founded in Singapore by Joseph Lor and Ryan Choy, Faire Leather Co. taps traditional know-how from decades of heritage and experience with real-time feedback and data to create stylish products designed for maximum function.
My opinion: Faire Leather Co is able to tap upon the decades worth of manufacturing capability of Tocco Toscano, ensuring that you get a quality product (likely crafted by the same craftsmen who have been making Tocco Toscano products for decades) at an affordable price. There’s a reason why they managed to raise over $400K on their debut Kickstarter project, making them one of the most funded Singaporean crowdfunded project till date. Personally, I love the ability of Faire to combine sleek, minimalist looks with ultra-functional utility. Take their Specter Bifold Wallet for example. Despite the minimalist look, it has a hidden card slot, a hidden compartment, and a quick access card slot with a pull-tab (seen above). Form and function, at a price that won’t break the bank. Customers can opt for monograms too. I reviewed the Specter Bifold Wallet with Cardholder here.
Price: The Specter Bifold Wallet is priced at $99. As Faire Leather is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders. Yes – that means that the Specter Bifold Wallet would only cost $89!
Where to buy: Interested readers can order from their web-store here.
8) Gnome & Bow
Is your loved one more of a creative – perhaps someone who loves literary classics? If so, a Gnome & Bow wallet would be the perfect gift!
Who they are: “Gnome & Bow was founded on that very notion that bags can go beyond functionality to become a new medium for storytelling, evoking the same emotions as our favorite stories…Drawing inspiration from the classics to tales of fancy, we develop story elements that are imbued seamlessly into our goods….Timeless as the stories that inspire us, we believe that our bags should be too. Our collection of bags, wallets and small leather accessories are designed to be the perfect companion for the discerning individual.”
My opinion: Gnome & Bow is one of my favourite local brands. I love how they seamlessly weave literary elements of iconic fables into the design of their wallets. In particular, I love the patterned fabric lining that the brand uses, which gives their wallets a sartorial vibe. The brand also recently launched their new RFID collection, which protects credit cards and passports against fraud and identity theft. The new wallets are now equipped with discreet compartments for coins, keys, SIM card and pin when the need arises, which also flatten when not in use. In addition, all of their wallets can be personalised with monograms of your choice, and will come with Gnome & Bow Christmas packaging and greeting cards (for orders placed from now till December 20th)! If you’re on a budget, Gnome & Bow is also currently having a sale on their older models, and you can still use the promo code below for a further discount. For more information, I reviewed Gnome & Bow’s wallets here.
Price: Gnome & Bow wallets currently start at $119. As Gnome & Bow is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders. Yes – that means that Gnome & Bow wallets can be had for as low as $107!
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their web-store here.
Writing Instruments:
For those looking for a more thoughtful gift, why not consider getting your loved one some writing instruments, such as a fountain pen and a personalised notebook?
9) Cityluxe
Cityluxe is a homegrown purveyor of writing instruments, offering a wide variety of pens, inks, notebooks and more at attractive prices.
Who they are: “We are an online store for stationery lovers and all things for journaling. Cityluxe WorkRoom was created as a third place for all of us who enjoy the community of journaling, writing, sketching, and drawing. An uplifting place to relax, enjoy, experience, share and learn. We strive to inspire and nurture our inner spirits, one pen, one book, one person, one neighbourhood at a time. Live simply and write daily.”
My opinion: I recently developed a love for fountain pens and journaling during this Circuit Breaker period. Like many, I spent most of my CB time in front of my computer, and I just wanted a break from the digital life. As such, I found myself spending more time taking on analog notes, putting pen to paper, planning my days and what I wanted to accomplish during this CB. The more I wrote, the more I grew to appreciate fountain pens. In many senses, fountain pens are exactly like mechanical watches. Sure, there are cheap ballpoint pens that will get the job done at a fraction of the price, but it simply doesn’t exude the same enjoyment as a fountain pen does. There’s a sense of class and workmanship to fountain pens that I really appreciate, and I’m sure your loved one will too! Whether as a daily writer or just something special to sign cheques and documents, a fountain pen (engraving services are available) makes for a great, thoughtful gift. In addition, a customised notebook (which Cityluxe also offers) makes for the perfect accompaniment! I reviewed some of Cityluxe’s offerings here, and compiled a list of affordable fountain pens here.
Price: At Cityluxe, fountain pens start at $19.90, while notebooks start at $8.90. As Cityluxe is an official partner of Wah So Shiok, simply quote “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all online orders.
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their web-store here.
Beer:
If your loved one already has everything he or she would ever need (watches, wallets, perfumes, even pens), then get them some good craft beer – who doesn’t like a nice can of beer from time to time?
10) Thirsty Beer Shop
Not to be a beer snob, but there really is a difference between a great craft beer and the mainstream Tiger/Anchor/Heineken beers one finds in the coffee shop. If you – or your loved ones – had never experienced craft beer before, Thirsty Beer Shop is a great way to start!
Who they are: “Thirsty Beer Shop is an online craft beer retailer on a mission to make craft beers accessible for all. We specialize in offering a wide array of affordable craft beers, beer gifts, discovery boxes and merchandises. Serving you since 2012, we’re building a vibrant craft beer culture in Singapore by creating simple, fun and affordable craft beer experiences to help you discover new beers.”
My opinion: If you’re a beer enthusiast – or know of a loved one who enjoys a nice pint of beer – then the “Not an Advent Calendar” Christmas Beer Box from Thirsty Beer Shop makes for a great Christmas gift. A fun and interesting Christmas gift for beer enthusiasts and the only one of its kind in Singapore, ‘Not An Advent Calendar’ allows you to open a mini door and enjoy a different, novel craft beer every day in December during the lead up to Christmas Day. Featuring 24 varied beers from America, Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, ‘Not An Advent Calendar’ includes 14 distinctive beer styles for the discerning quaffer. Ranging from light to dark, hoppy to malty, some of the exotic craft brews on parade include New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale, Golden Road Mango Cart, Green Flash Tropical DNA Hazy IPA, and Mother Earth Cali Creamin Cream Ale. The beers come in a variety of cans of 330ml, 355ml and 375ml and include a gift item, the Thirsty Beer Can Glass, in which to savour your premium brews. To make the process even more entertaining, each mini door features a fun fact or a joke!
Price: ‘Not An Advent Calendar’ is delivered direct to your festive doorstep free-of-charge and is priced at S$159 for a single box, S$465 for 3 boxes, and S$765 for 5 boxes. There’s also a cheaper “Merry Beermas” gift box of 8 cans available for S$49.
Where to buy: Interested readers can buy from their web-store here.
Conclusion
That rounds up my list of gifts which you can get your loved ones for Christmas! All the options mentioned above are customisable in some shape or form, so you can truly personalise your gift. With the exception of UNDONE, all the brands mentioned above are homegrown, so you will be doing our local economy a favour as well. Do note that each brand has their own cut-off date for Christmas orders, so do be mindful of that when ordering!
P.S Do check out the new “Discounts!” page for exclusive discounts for Wahsoshiok readers! More brands will be added very soon – stay tuned!
P.S.S If you haven’t already, do follow my social media channels on Facebook here, and on Instagram here!
P.S.S.S Shiok is a common word Singaporeans use to express admiration or approval. As of 2016, you can find the definition of the word in the Oxford English Dictionary.
