Today in Gear: In-The-Know on New Releases

Spotify latest offering has very little to do with audio, and everything to do with digital visuals. Currently, the streaming service is testing a program where select artists can host NFTs. Admittedly, artists can already spotlight tour dates and merch on their Spotify artist profile pages, but this addition is another layer of artist promotion. As of right now, the feature is only available to small selection of Android-based users, and limited to artists like Steve Aoki. Users can view artist-supported NFT galleries which — when clicking through to “See More” — will send users to NFT platform OpeaSea. Currently, while this feature is in testing mode, Spotify doesn’t receive any commission on NFT sales or transactions. While the buzz surrounding NFTs has certainly died down as we’ve come into 2022, corporate-supported web3 moves like this make sure that NFTs aren’t going anywhere, any time soon. Web3 antics aside, we’ve got a look at Yema’s limited release Superman watch, Branch’s new Verve office chair and Clear’s affordable take on sporty “open-ear” headphones. This is Today in Gear.

Yema launches the Superman in a “Full Lume” special edition.

Yema

Yema is an icon of French watchmaking, dating all the way back to 1948. Its equally iconic Superman watch — known for its signature “bezel-lock” has military roots and dates back to 1963. This limited edition (only 500 watches were produced) features a date-free face, coated with Grade A Super-LumiNova BGW9 for optimal brightness in all conditions. Fans of the silhouette can take solace that, while this is a unique release, the famous “bezel-lock” is firmly in place at the 3 o’clock position — just like it’s been since the mid-’60s.

Branch’s new Verve is the perfect upgrade to your work from home setup.

Branch

Even if you’re heading back to the office, it’s clearer than ever that you need a solid work from home setup — and that includes a top-tier desk chair. Branch’s new Verve Chair is ergonomically designed, featuring a 3D knit V-shaped suspended back for breathable support, as well as seven different adjustment points for a fine-tuned fit, no matter how you like to sit and work. Coming in well under $600, it’s a comfortable chair without an uncomfortable price.

Cleer’s ARC wireless earbuds are an affordable alternative to a pair of Bose’s sport earbuds.

Cleer

As our Tech Desk pointed out, these “open-ear” earbuds flow sound directly into the ear canal; it’s a design that allows for a more “open” (obviously) listening experience that makes it easy to simultaneously listen to music and other audio while remaining aware of what’s going on around you. This style of headphone has become popular with outdoor athletes of all stripes, making exercising less hazardous when road running or biking. Best of all, Cleer’s ARC model is cheaper than the competition; at $130 it’s $70 less than Bose’s alternative.

Portofino deserves a spot in your summer cocktail rotation.

Claudio

Whether you’re making a gin and tonic or testing out a trendy martini recipe, Portofino Dry Gin brings a bit of Italian sunshine to your bar cart. Made in Italy and sharing a name with a city with breathtaking, breezy views, Portofino Dry Gin is a blend of traditional and modern methods. Using an old Italian copper pot still combined with techniques like vacuum distillation, expect this gin to be as bright and botanical (with notes of lemon, juniper, sage, lavender and rosemary) as a summer breeze off the Mediterranean.

Classic suitcase styling, complete with modern carry-on functionality.

Vocier

We know a thing or two about picking out the best luggage, and Vocier’s P55 carry-on manages to look like a classic suitcase but perform like a modern-day rolling carry-on. Weighing in at just under 8lbs, with 37L of capacity, the model has leather carry handles and polished zippers (which give it an international, timeless look) but sports a telescoping handle and silent 360-degree wheels for making inter-airport travel a breeze. While the bag is currently in preorders, those who shop now will get a slight break on the final price.

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