Brand watch: Christopher Ward

Top-class timepieces, competitively priced Christopher Ward (left) boasted to a friend on his birthday in 2004: “I bet I can make the cheapest, most expensive watch in the world.” A year later, his self-named company was formed.

Ward’s quintessentially English watches (David Frost wears one, apparently) cost a fraction of the likes of Longines or Rolex. Its new C600 Tri-Tech Diver Elite (£395, above), waterproof to 500m, is, it claims, one of only two watches with a helium release valve, protecting it against extreme pressure changes (christopherward.co.uk).

Strength and depth

Carga bags have a distinctive industrial feel. Made from wool felt and distressed leather, the range – crafted by Argentinian designer Mauro Bianucci – includes this roomy weekend bag, £195 (cargabags.com).

Top banana

Banana Republic’s Monogram and Heritage lines feature uncomplicated menswear that still looks cool. The autumn/winter lines include a pinstripe jacket, £195, and trousers, £95, both above left, and a mohair cardigan, £65, above right. Suits are sold as separates, too, a godsend for those of us who aren’t of off-the-peg-proportions – and you can get two pairs of trousers (020-7758 3350).

5 reasons why we love...

The Zippo hand warmer

1. It’s a daft, unusual thing.

2. But think of midwinter at a football match and it suddenly becomes very useful. 3. It costs virtually nothing to run. 4. It’s the size of an iPod, so fits in pretty small pockets or gloves. 5. Perfect for handing over to a girlfriend on a country walk (£19.90; zippo.co.uk).