In honor of Father’s Day on June 19, we celebrate the remarkable men who have served in one of life’s most pivotal occupations: fatherhood. With a history that spans over a century, this day for dads is more than just another Hallmark holiday – it is also a time to acknowledge the significant contributions of fathers in our everyday lives.
The campaign to celebrate Father’s Day began in 1908 – Mother’s Day, having been celebrated since the 1860s, had become an official commercial holiday that same year. In 1909, a young woman who had been raised by her widowed father in the small city of Spokane, Washington planted the seed for what would become the official Father’s Day holiday. As expected, word soon spread of this celebration, though it was not without its critics. During the 1920s and 1930s, movements rallied in favor of an all-encompassing “Parents Day.” Yet, with the onset of WWII, the nation once again united around a day celebrating fathers; with many gone to war, it became a way to honor American troops and the war effort. Though not yet a federal holiday, the country would collectively begin celebrating Father’s Day as a national institution for that moment onwards. It was in 1972 that President Richard Nixon finally signed Father’s Day as a national federal holiday.
With an estimated 70 million fathers in North America today, the celebration of Father’s Day is more widespread than ever. Finding the perfect gift for dad can be daunting and, at times, simply overwhelming. Rather than opting for another tie, surprise your dad with something truly unique this year, a piece with as much history as the day itself. This simple gift guide will help you turn this Father’s Day into something truly memorable - the perfect way to celebrate your father.
For the clock enthusiast…
This rare Vacheron Constantin watch is housed in a desirable 18K yellow gold Spur-model case - See more at: https://uat.rauantiques.com/blog/?p=4677#sthash.mKc0yxjC.dpuf
Stylish trend and collector’s passion, clocks and watches make a timeless gift for dad. Classy, yet reliable, a wristwatch is a remarkable and fool-proof gift for men of all ages. The wristwatch as a men’s accessory took shape during WWII, when soldiers found the object a necessity in order to readily have the time available. The time old tradition of rifling through one’s pockets for a pocket watch was gone as wristwatches, such as this Vacheron Constantin men’s watch, became a fashion icon all on their own.
For the writer and philosopher…
Boasting an elegant, balanced design and its original glass pots, this inkwell is a fine example of silver by the second generation of Bateman silversmiths.
Whether your dad is a novelist, lawyer, or avid penpal, his workspace should exude the same importance as the work it accommodates. Apart from handsome furniture to store his favorite books and writing utensils, a sturdy inkwell adds aesthetic beauty and functionality to any workspace. Crafted by Peter and Anne Bateman, this inkwell encompasses both cultural significance and expert craftsmanship. Early 19th century English silver pieces such as this are matchless in terms of design and craftsmanship. Complete with the emblematic characteristics of the celebrated Bateman style, this piece boasts elegance and balance.
For the stylish gent…
The art and sophistication of Fabergé is on display in this extraordinary cane by Henrik Wigström, who served as the head of the famed Russian workshop from 1903-1917
The walking stick is a symbol of refinement for any groomed, distinguished gentleman. Coming into fashion during the Victorian era in the 17th century, the walking stick became part of men’s daily attire. This wardrobe essential burgeoned to such importance that no man would dare navigate the public arena without the stylish accessory. Because the walking stick became a prevailing symbol of taste and class, jewelry firms such as Fabergé latched onto this trend and crafted opulent walking sticks topped with colorful rare gemstones and detailed enameling.
