Father’s Day Gift Guide
Thank Him on Father’s Day
Our Father’s Day Gift Guide to Sunday June 19th
Today Father’s Day is a day to honour and celebrate Dads the world over, however this tradition is still relatively new; the tradition of Father’s Day only began in 1910. Originating in the United States in Spokane, Washington, a lady by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd decided that it was not only Mothers who should have a day dedicated to them. Dodd’s father was a Civil War veteran and had raised her and five other children single-handedly after her mother had died in childbirth.
Dodd decided that she would petition for her Father’s birthday, June 5th, 1910 to be the first holiday for Fathers to be recognised in the city of Spokane. However, the city needed more time to arrange the holiday and the date of the celebration was moved to June 19th. It was not until 1924, that the then president Calvin Coolidge, expressed support for the national holiday but it was only officially recognised in 1972 when President Nixon declared it a permanent holiday.
Father’s Day is now a tradition across the globe, with the UK celebrating on the third Sunday of June, initially red roses were handed out and worn to celebrate living Fathers and white roses were worn to commemorate the deceased. Today Father’s Day is much more of a commercial enterprise with card makers Hallmark declaring it the fifth busiest card-giving tradition of the year.
Germany choose to honour the day slightly differently, Männertag, which translates to ‘Men’s Day’ sees men across the country indulging in foods of the region and drinking beer off wagons; here in the UK it is usual to give your Father and Grandfather gifts as well as a card, below we have complied a list of unique, interesting and thoughtful gifts to say Thank You to that special Father figure this year.
Budget
1. For the Game Player
Bridge/Draw Bridge set
A 1920’s Bridge and Draw Bridge set; this comes in a well-kept box & is in unused condition. With it being one of the most popular card games in the world, this is bound to excite the card enthusiasts out there & is the perfect excuse for Dad and his friends to get together for a game or two.
£20
Sold by: Severn Beech
www.loveantiques.com/miscellaneous/games/1920s-goodalls-draw-bridge-set-unused-34289
2. For the Historian
World War I memorabilia
The fascination with war transcends generations, it could be your Grandfather or Father who are both intrigued in this compelling history. This World War I British Brass Artillery Fuse was introduced in 1911. It makes the ideal paperweight for a Dad who is interested in World War I memorabilia.
£45
Sold by: shopping4antiques.com
3. For the Train spotter
Unused Hornby LMS Class 5 Loco & Tender (Boxed)
The perfect addition for dad’s model train collection. This Hornby 00 gauge loco and tender is in unused condition and comes in it’s original box. Founded in 1901, Hornby model trains are highly collectable with a tremendously vast array of trains available to buy & collect.
£70
Sold by: Severn Beech
www.loveantiques.com/unused-hornby-lms-class-5-loco-and-tender-(boxed)-35048
Mid Range
4. For the Sports Lover
A Set of Edwardian Lignum Table Bowls c.1910
If your father is a games lover & has a competitive streak in him then these table bowls would make the perfect gift. They were made in the early 20th Century and come in the original box, which has typical signs of wear, given its’ age. A set of rules is also enclosed so this should prevent any cheating!
£100
Sold by: C.S. Moreton (Antiques)
www.loveantiques.com/miscellaneous/games/set-of-edwardian-lignum-table-bowls-c1910-34895
5. For the Father who likes a Stiff Drink
Whisky Decanters
There are a great deal of fine whisky’s on the market these days and whether your Dad is a lover of a smooth single malt or a more rounded blended whisky this pair of whisky decanters is sure to warm his insides. The pair of decanters are a substantial weight and are fine cut glass crystal made in 1880.
£250
Sold by: Salisbury Antiques
www.loveantiques.com/antique-glass/decanters/pair-of-whisky-decanters-24980
6. For the Entertainer/Gardener
Antique Copper Bound Planter / Jardiniere / Wine Cooler c.1900
Whether Dad is an entertainer who enjoys hosting parties or simply someone who enjoys pottering around the garden, this item is sure to suit his needs. This early 20th Century versatile piece can be used for a number of purposes, so get the wine at the ready, or indeed some Geraniums!
£285
Sold by: Town House Traders Ltd
7. For the Dapper Dad
Diamond & 9ct Gold Cufflinks
What better way to say ‘Happy Fathers Day’ than with these stylish and smart 9ct Gold and Diamond cufflinks. Made during the 20th Century when the popularity of men’s jewellery soared, these cufflinks each boast 2 beautiful quality diamonds, which sit subtly on the edge of the cufflink. They would make a superb accompaniment to Dad’s attire.
£325
Sold by: Lisa Clements
www.loveantiques.com/vintage-jewellery/cufflinks/diamond-and-9ct-gold-cufflinks-23691
Extravagant
8. For the Art Lover
Highly Sought after Watercolour Painting
If your father has a keen eye for a beautiful piece of art, then why not impress him with this extremely desirable watercolour by famous artist Robert George Talbot Kelly (RBA RI RBC FRGS). Dated and signed in 1909, this painting depicts the Beautiful settings around an Italian lake. A pleasure to behold.
£1,250
Sold by: Mansion House Antiques & Fine Art
9. A Treat for Every Dad
Rolex Air King Watch
This stainless steel Rolex watch is a classic accessory, made in the 1960’s it is in absolutely immaculate condition, with a two-year guarantee, it is a gift that every man would love. Show him he’s the King in your eyes and splash out on this Rolex Air King Watch, it is guaranteed to be a gift he won’t forget in time.
£2,800
Sold by: Chamade Antiques
www.loveantiques.com/vintage-watches/mens-watches/1960s-rolex-air-king-32803
10. For the Craftsman
Cabinetmakers Fitted Wooden Box c.1910
Does Dad think of himself as an elite craftsman? A skilled woodworker? Then look no further, this early 20th Century antique cabinetmakers tool kit has everything he needs to create his masterpieces. From screwdrivers to mallets and wheel braces to chisels; it truly has it all. Dating from 1910, this piece would make a very generous gift.
£4,400
Sold by: Windsor House Antiques
Happy Fathers' Day
For more gift ideas please feel free to browse the website: www.loveantiques.com
Image credit: (Blog cover image) copyright, limitofcontrol(81225573), Adobe Stock
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