While it’s up for debate, many people would agree that The Rolling Stones’ best album was released fifty years ago this month. Aside from a few cuts and additional vocal sessions, the majority of Exile on Main Street was recorded in Keith Richards’ mansion in southern France during a period of tax exile. Ultimately serving as the storied band’s most soulful, palpable LP, the iconic double album has been heralded as one of the greatest records of all time by countless outlets, sitting at 14th on none other than Rolling Stone‘s own list. Having been around for half a century, Exile has surely withstood the test of time, which is why we’re honoring it as we shine a light on this quartet of French-made EDC gear that recalls the album cover’s black and gray color scheme.
Fontenille Pataud Saint Martin Classic Range Folding Knife
This handsome French-made gentleman’s folding knife is fitted with a debonaire ebony handle and comes from a brand that has been around for nearly a century. Measuring just over 7.5 inches when opened and boasting a feather-like weight of under 2.5 ounces, its blade is composed of 12C27 Swedish stainless steel and makes for a perfect addition to your gear ensemble. It also comes equipped with a handy, handmade leather pouch. As a manufacturer that whole-heartedly embraces the notion of quantity over quality, it’s hard to go wrong with any of Fontenille Pataud’s sleek catalog.
Devialet Gemini True Wireless Earbuds
France’s premier audio manufacturer can make any piece of sound equipment impressive, but its handy Gemini Earbuds might just take the cake. When it comes to a hi-fi listening experience, these sleek in-ears are a great choice, with Devialet’s patented Ear Active Matching tech that tunes the music’s signal to the shape of your ear for as long as 24 hours — that’s a whole day’s worth of listening!
Yema Superman Heritage U.S. Edition
This sleek vintage-style dive watch comes courtesy of Yema, a French brand that goes to show European watchmaking is not limited to the likes of Switzerland. That said, though, the Superman Heritage U.S. Edition still boasts a reliable Swiss Sellita SW200-1 movement, which features 26 jewels and a power reserve of 38 hours. Rounded out with a sleek black dial and a retro stainless steel bracelet, the 41mm watch also features its trademark Superman bezel-lock for added authenticity, ultimately maintaining the silhouette’s 1960s integrity.
Goyard Victoire Wallet
There’s exclusivity, and then there’s Goyard. As one of France’s most refined fashion houses, its signature motif has grown as coveted as any, serving as a fashionable way to round out any list that revolves around French decadence. The Victoire Wallet is made of Goyardine canvas and Vauzelles calfskin and comes available in more colors than the rainbow could dream of having. For functionality’s sake, it comes equipped with an exterior card pocket, 2 additional slots, as well as a handy portioned pocket. While ordering any of the label’s coveted items is difficult to pull off online, you can always send your request to a local boutique to pick one up.
