Fathers sometimes get shorted on their dedicated day. A thoughtful and unique keepsake will make their day just as special as mom’s.
Experiential gifts are always the best, but when looking for an uncommon object, vintage gifts show love and appreciation, and will make fathers feel just as special. They bring history to giving – an appreciation of days gone by. And repurposing vintage items is a great way to cut down on consumerism and mass production.
This unique sampling of collectibles from my Etsy shop, tcgVINTAGEetc, highlights the arts – design, architecture and music – that guys may enjoy.
Vintage Architecture and Design | Metropolis Magazines
Bold layouts with strong photography and inventive typography, these vintage issues of Metropolis are iconic with future-forward features and topical content. They were issued in oversize formats and were a staple in every working studio in the mid-1980s. They are great collectibles as-is, or can be framed for dad’s office.
Vintage Brass Bookmarks | Michael Kalil Design
Artist Michael Kalil’s vintage bookmarks are collected by modern design aficionados around the world. From the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) circa 1988, two of the three rare, and beautifully-designed brass #bookmarks from the ‘Three Bookmarks Series’ are available. For fathers who love books, this is a special gift. Each bookmark comes in its own folder, based on the original 1973 design.
Vintage Vinyl LP | David Ruffin: Who I Am
The classic soul and R&B sounds of former Temptations lead singer David Ruffin is a perfect way for fathers to kick back and enjoy their day. Produced by the legendary Van McCoy, this vintage collectible is a great addition for those who have rediscovered vinyl or are rebuilding a record collection.
Vintage Industrial Objects | Mid-Century Keys
As Industrial decor, as tools, or simply as collectibles, these uncommon keys make inventive gifts for the right fathers. The tiny cash register/sewing machine key and Yale Tubular Emergency Key are excellent examples of mid-century design. Their age and wear add to their character.
Vintage Maps | First Edition 1984 Rome Unfolds Map
Also from the Museum of Modern Art’s design collection, this Rome Unfolds Map is one of the earliest, award-winning pop out map series by VanDam. With three tabbed sections, it was created to fit neatly in a pocket or backpack for easy information access. This rare, early edition is a great gift for dads who appreciate modern design and enjoy map collectibles.
Vintage Books | Travel, WWII History, Physiology
This trio of vintage books are a good match for dads who enjoy travel, history or science. Dating from the early 20th century thru mid-century, these rare editions for readers and collectors are special gifts for special dads.
1927 The Glorious Adventure by Richard Halliburton: Halliburton’s second book details his travels through Italy, Greece and the Mediterranean. This is a great read for travel lovers who enjoy epic adventure and ancient Greek classics.
1941 Berlin Diary: Journal of a Foreign Correspondent by William L. Shirer: This is a gripping, first-hand account of the rise of Nazi Germany and the road to World War II as witnessed by the American journalist and author.
1918 Lessons in Elementary Physiology by Thomas Huxley: One of the earliest, most complete books detailing human anatomy, Huxley’s illustrated book clearly and concisely explains the elements of anatomy and physiology.
Happy Father's Day! For more one-of-a-kind, vintage gift ideas, visit my Etsy shop.
Illustration: © 2019 Janet Giampietro.
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