It’s not 100% clear where the term “top brass” originated. But the likeliest story comes from the British armed forces during the 19th century. You see, high-ranking officials wore hats that were adorned with filigree-style golden-colored oak leaves made of metal – like brass. So, if you were a high-ranking officer, you were a member of “the brass.” Eventually, this turn of phrase made it into the civilian lexicon and now simply means “a position of power.” We think that’s a pretty appropriate assessment of the material itself – especially in regards to everyday carry. Brass is an impressively strong material and can last through literal centuries (and some of it has), acquiring a beautiful aged appearance in the meantime. So the next time you’re thinking about adding a little fortitude to your EDC, you might want to turn to brass.
Maxx & Unicorn Pill Keyring
Crafted in Brooklyn, New York by local metalworkers, this solid-brass keyring can hold 12+ keys and keychain accessories, has a unique elongated shape, and features a hexagonal threaded closure with laser engraving.
Nagao Higonokami Brass Friction Folder
A beautiful example of a classic-style Japanese folder, this brass-handled pocket knife is mated to a 3.5-inch blue paper steel blade (a high-quality folded metal), has a lever deployment, and has a reverse tanto blade shape that gives it just a touch of samurai style.
Bellroy Card Sleeve
Crafted from environmentally-certified leather, this minimalist wallet from Bellroy boasts a capacity of over 8 cards and some cash, features dual quick-access slots on the front and back, and has an easy pull tab to access the main compartment.
Prometheus Lights Beta-QRV2 Flashlight
One of the best everyday carry flashlights of all time, the Beta-QRV2 from the folks at Prometheus Lights works with multiple battery chemistries, can run for up to 55 hours on a single battery, offers up to 85 lumens across three brightness settings, and has a quick-release keychain attachment at its base.
Anonimo Nautilo Automatic Watch
Done-up in brushed bronze (a cousin of brass) and navy blue, this gorgeous automatic watch features a Sellita SW200-1 self-winding mechanical movement beneath a domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal and affixes to the wrist via a gorgeous calf leather band.
