A wish list of accessories

It's not a question of acquiring the most toys, but the most interesting ones over the course of one's life.

My list isn't one of full of “needs” and not necessarily “wants.” I consider these items as “nice to have.” The methodology goes something like this: 1) Dream without limits; 2) Seek the unique; and 3) Maximize the “cool” factor.

So here goes:

10. 19th Century baseball — Talk about “old school” feel. Gripping this vintage ball across the criss-cross stitching led to the term “four-seam fastball.” Leather Head Sports' Lemon Ball is a replica of the predecessor to the modern baseball. Great to use for playing catch, or as a conversation piece on a desk or mantel.

9. Leather medicine ball — Nowadays, there are all kinds of classes, machines and free weights available for a vigorous workout. Medicine balls are still around as an option, but a leather-bound medicine ball preserves the retro aesthetic. Like the Lemon Ball, Leather Head Sports carries medicine balls that evoke memories of the early YMCA days, or even the store props used by Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers.

8. Model train set — Any man who has grown up with assembling layouts for running trains can rekindle his inner child as an adult. Lionel's Polar Express “O” gauge train set is popular restart. Careful … you might get hooked again.

7. Fountain pen — In a world of ball-points, the fountain pen is for sophisticated scribes. The caveat is to always keep it capped, or else ink stains quickly form inside the pockets of shirts, pants or jackets. Montblanc and Waterman are two of the best makers of fountain pens.

6. Bose Wave Music System with SoundLink — Bose not only raises the bar of sound through its components, it's a unifying force for PC's and small gadgets. The wireless function cements Bose's presence as a player (pun optional) in electronics.

5. The Apple triumvirate — iPhone, iPad, iPod. They keep getting better with every upgrade.

4. Bespoke footwear — Despite the high cost for a quality pair of handmade shoes, they become a sound investment that lasts for decades with proper care. In the U.S., Alden‘s shell cordovan line wears like iron. If you prefer English bespoke shoes and boots, the likes of George Cleverley, John Lobb, and Foster & Son deliver the desired results. Not least, if you're really into shoes, check out Berluti of France. Berluti's technique of adding customized colors to shoes adds another dimension to their uniqueness and undeniable artistry.

3. Swarovski Optik binoculars — Seeing really is believing. Looking through a pair of Swarovskis does not just offer a clear view from long distances, it's an experience. The resolution of these binoculars offer is without peer.

2. Patek Philippe timepiece — The ultimate in craftsmanship and luxury, Patek Philippe is a watchmaker that has three centuries' worth of history behind it. PP's pocket watches are especially riveting.

1. Aston Martin — The DB5 is the first Aston Martin model that appeared in “Goldfinger” (1963). Aston Martin has been featured in other James Bond movies, replete with bells and whistles beyond the scope of what's available to civilians. In any case, the DB5′s classic lines are nothing short of elegant. If you're fortunate enough to acquire an Aston Martin automobile, the only question is whether the steering wheel should be on the left- or right-hand side of the car. Either way, you're stylin'.