The idea started with an impending party, as many problem-solving concepts are wont to do. Man-about-town Jason Landver was celebrating a birthday but felt humbly awkward about what to tell friends and family when they asked what he’d like as a gift. Instead of sending them on a wild goose chase for the perfect present, he decided to invent a way to simplify the process of shopping altogether. Enter: EssentialMan.com.
The core of the site is providing a selection of items that are handpicked and seriously specific. For example, Landver and another buyer will test tons of cameras but only put, say, the best two on the site—one would be geared towards an outdoorsy photographer and the other towards someone who just appreciates beautiful pictures. The result is a streamlined process for making your purchases. “There are so many sites and there is so much to choose from that it takes too long to shop,” says Landver. “The web that once made everything easier is now so saturated!”
The Essential Man stock comes mostly from his travels, a collection of products picked up everywhere from trade fairs and art exhibits to local markets and furniture stores. “I’m seeing this evolution of people who are getting more attuned to design that’s practical but also looks really elegant,” explains Lavender. And to match you with your ideal find, users can filter the site by the type of man they have in mind. Move a dial towards “Jetsetter” and you’ll see leather luggage and a passport holder glide to the top of the page. Slide another towards “Dapper” and you’ll see cufflinks and wet bar sets making their way upwards. You get the idea.
If you’d like to test out the site, Father’s Day would be a good time to start. Below, Landver shares his personal picks for the man-centric holiday.
“We love this speaker system because we seldom see inspiring design perfectly blended with professionally engineered sound.”
Parrot Zikmu Bluetooth Speaker, $965, essentialman.com.
“Over 100 years of expertise is hidden within this compact camera, and it has, hands down, the best lens in the world.”
Leica D-Lux 6 Digital Camera, $800, essentialman.com.
“This is essential for any watch collector. The design of the winder is stunning, only matched by its precise motor and conveniently adjustable settings.”
Automatic Watch Winder, $275, essentialman.com.
“Nothing looks cooler than an original autographed basketball—it has such a legacy and a history.”
Autographed All-Star Basketballs, $1,620, essentialman.com.
“After a long day, this massager feels incredible. It’s a must-have for any man who works hard.”
Osim Japanese Leg Massager, $625, essentialman.com.
MORE:
10 Indulgent Gifts for the Man Who Has Everthing
The Ultimate 2013 Father’s Day Gift Guide
The Best Men’s Grooming Products
