Unique Christmas gift ideas: Luxury gifts for men

The item no well-dressed chap living in the British Isles should ever be without: an umbrella. James Smith & Sons have been making brollies since 1830, and their wares make lovely gifts. Each is individually crafted, and the solid stick umbrellas are made to measure, so stop by the shop if you can, or give them a call.

Solid stick umbrella, from £180
By James Smith & Sons
For more information visit james-smith.co.uk or call 0207 836 4731 Photograph: PR

While some fashion labels brassily flaunt their wares with in-your-face advertising campaigns, Aspinal of London get quietly on with business of luxury leather goods, and we love them for it. This satchel will last years - in fact he'll probably be able to pass it down to his children and grandchildren - and is suitable for a chap of any age.

Cavalry satchel, £395
By Aspinal of London
Buy online at aspinaloflondon.com Photograph: PR

Humm make stylish and super-soft alpaca knitwear for men and women, and their website is well worth a browse. Alpaca wool doesn't bobble or pill, which is marvellous news for the more clumsy of us. A jumper is for life, not just for Christmas you know ...

Huancayo alpaca jumper, £160
By Humm
Buy online at hummshop.com Photograph: PR

There are Christmas jumpers and there are Christmas jumpers. This one hits the perfect blend of cosy yet elegant, with just a dash of kitsch. Like many of People Tree's wool garments, these cardigans are knitted in the Kumbeshwar Technical School, Nepal, which provides local employment and ploughs profits back into the community.

Snowflake jacquard cardigan, £125
By People Tree
Buy online at peopletree.co.uk Photograph: PR

Disclaimer: we're not big fans of the statement watch. We think those blinged-up ones with multiple dials and scary price tags are fine if you have a bonus to blow, but if you want something stylish and fashionable without resorting to bank robbery, then here is a suggestion. Striking, fashionable but also low-key, this is a lovely watch.

Yves Behar Vue watch, £310
By Issey Miyake
For more information visit isseymiyake-watch.com Photograph: PR

One present that definitely won't fall to bits in the new year: this bag was built to last and comes with a 10-year guarentee. It was built in the UK by Brady of Walsall, and Howies state that the bag will only get better with age. It might even reappear under the tree on a future Christmas Day as it is handed down a generation.

Hand Me Down messenger bag, £250
By Howies
Buy online at howies.co.uk Photograph: Joe Morse/PR

Another low-key suggestion. Skagen make watches with a Scandanavian simplicity - this is among the more jazzy of their models. We particularly like their ultra-flat titanium straps, which are both pleasingly comfortable to wear and practical - they never catch on wool jumpers or scarves.

Multifunction watch with grey band, £165
By Skagen
Buy online at skagen.com Photograph: PR

With a tech-spec to please the hardiest Alpinist and a cool look for those who just want to stay warm and dry at the bus stop, this jacket should meet with approval. Patagonia has a strong commitment to sustainable design and environmental programmes, as you might hope from an outdoor clothing company.

Nano Storm jacket, £250
By Patagonia
Buy online at patagonia.com Photograph: PR

Yes, it's a plain grey scarf. But it's an Acne plain grey scarf, and if you are buying a gift for a very fashionable gent, he will really appreciate this, we promise.

Fringed scarf, £80
By Acne
Buy online at shop.acnestudios.com Photograph: PR

If you are buying for a chap who has always hankered after some designer jeans, then opt for a lesser-known but incredibly high-quality brand. Fallow jeans are all made in the UK, of premium selvedge denim. The detailing is understated but impeccably stylish, and the cuts are slim, regular or loose

Jeans, £150
By Fallow
Buy online at goodhoodstore.com Photograph: PR