Month: October 2011

Victorinox Tomo

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Victorinox, the makers of the original Swiss Army knife, have given this classic pocket companion a modern makeover with the Tomo series. Featuring a sleek rectangular shape and a fresh color line, Tomo is a unisex accessory that can slip into a pocket or be tucked into a pocketbook alike. The new design of this classic pocket knife doesn’t compromise its function — the familiar grouping of blade, nail file with cleaner, and scissors are all there. Tomo, which means “companion” or “friend” in Japanese (is it too Scarface to call your knife “friend”?), was designed by Kazuma Yamaguchi, whose work appears in design shops under the label ABITAX. Tomo comes in a beautiful carrying pouch made of 100% recycled and reusable pulp. While a nice touch, perhaps the white leather pouch option (available for $13.00 USD) is a more durable option for those days when you find yourself in a bit of trouble and need to try out some sweet MacGyver moves. Available for $24.00 USD.

S’well Bottle

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Let’s face it, even if they try to be eco-friendly, plastic water bottles stink. They are convenient, recyclable, and lightweight, but the energy and materials that it takes to manufacture, ship, and then recycle them back into bottles or other objects could certainly be better spent. That’s why I’m always intrigued when a company claims to have come up with a better bottle. The S’well Bottle is a hybrid water bottle/thermos for wine, tea, or anything you want to keep hot or cold. These insulated stainless steel bottles are non-leaching, toxin-free, and are “virtually unbreakable” according to the manufacturer. They come in a rainbow of colors, fit into your car’s cup holder, and have a mouth big enough to put ice cubes through (something your standard water bottle can not do). They come in a 15 ounce/500 ml size ($35 USD) and a 25 ounce/750 ml size ($45 USD) that can carry a full bottle of wine. If you want a good reason to give S’well a swig, you should also know that the company …