If I could have only one pair of cuff links, they would be similar to the vintage double sided 14 karat gold pair in the photo.
I generally prefer linked cuffs when I am wearing a suit, and, as a class, discreetly sized gold links have considerable advantages over the alternatives. They do not tarnish, they look good with suits and shirts of any color, and, when purchased without a retail markup as most things vintage can be, they should always hold enough value to be exchanged for a meal if worst ever came to worst.
Discretion is paramount of course if a man is looking for one pair and one pair only. Conspicuous sizes and those with gems, enamel or noteworthy designs do not work as an only pair. Small geometric shapes with or without a little etching are best.
It is easy to spend more but the careful shopper may find vintage choices for less than $300. eBay is a good place to look.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
If I Could Have Only One
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13 comments:
I’ve purchased only estate cufflinks over the last 20 years, or so. I too find they generally have finer workmanship, are more attractive and offer better value. That they have a history also adds to their appeal to me. I’m fortunate to have a pair similar to those you picture and find them a handsome finish for almost any cuff.
Only one pair of cufflinks? It's too horrible a proposition to contemplate.
I'd rather have a pair of a silver engraved with my initials. But then again, I never wear gold.
I have a pair of antique engraved silver ones from my grandfather I love and wear frequently.
Will, I believe you've blogged about the inappropriateness of visible monograms on shirts. Michael's comment makes me wonder what you think about monograms on cufflinks, and, for that matter, initials on other items, such as cigarette cases, handkerchiefs, and drink glasses. Could we ask you to share your thoughts?
"Come now, Jeeves. Lots of people have their initials on things these days!"
"I believe the practise is restricted to those in danger of forgetting their names, Sir."
My grandmother just gave me a box withthe family cufflinks in it, some dating back to Victorian times if family myth has any truth. There were two pairs like the ones pictures, I look forward to wearing them.
I must also post up a personal preference for chain-linked cufflinks (as opposed to T-bar links); they not only look better, they are more reliable (the t-bar can tend to become looser and swivel freer through regular wear).
Consequently, it's chain-links for me; and, these days, can most often be found on antique and vintage pairs.
Every once in a while Will endorses an item which I already own (through instinct or more likely luck). It is one of the thrills of this site.
I second Horatio's curiosity about monograms on accessories and the like.
I'm partial to a pair of Tiffany silver knots my wife gave me long, long ago. They have the virtue of being double sided, unlike the T-bar links and can also go with just about anything.
Gold or silver?
Depends on your watch and, if married wedding ring.
A clash across watch, ring and glasses is not nice.
Will, if you're seriously interested in cufflinks, you should definitely pay a visit ot Guy-David Lambrechts in Antwerp, Belgium. This place is not only (literally) a goldmine for a one and a half centuries' worth of vintage cufflinks, but this guy also provides bespoke shirts and shoes. I've heard he also gives style seminars to corporate Belgium. I was in his shop a few weeks ago and purchased some wonderful silk knit ties. Never mind his website, his shop in a wonderful old building in the center of Antwerp is worth a visit.
PS. If you need the address: http://www.antieke-manchetknopen.be/
Many people say cufflinks are old news, but from my viewpoint, they are totally incorrect. Cuff links will not go anywhere, regardless if they are sported at weddings, special events or simply for a good laugh. Cufflinks really do give a formal egde and whenever I gift a pair to a friend, they think it's the best thing to happen to them since the invention of the wheel.
Mr. Brown,
I agree, metals of an ensemble should correlate, including belt buckle (if wearing one). It is the attention to detail that really brings everything together.
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