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The Manual’s Top 5 Rucksacks for Fall/Winter 2014

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The start of a new season calls for a trusty, incredibly stylish new vessel – are we right? The rucksack has to be one of our all-time favourites. Check out our top five selection of practical, achingly cool versions for fall/winter.

1. D89 Backpack by Carhartt

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Offering comfort and style in equal measures, this Carhartt number is ideal for every day use. The sleek black design is completely water repellent and features contour fit shoulder straps and a padded air mesh back panel. Perfect for the daily commute…

2. Eastpak X Nicomede Fleury Backpack

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This high-concept backpack is ideal for design lovers. Part of Eastpak and menswear designer Nicomede Fleury’s fourth collaborative collection, the Fleury backpack pays testament to Swiss pop artist Sylvie Fleury. The textural faux shearling outer is contrasted against square panels of leather and the burgundy back panel against adjustable grey leather straps. We love the detachable Velcro interior pocket.

3. Christopher Raeburn x Porter Grey Remade Limited Edition Backpack

If exclusive, limited edition design is your thing, this Christopher Raeburn x Porter piece could be the one. Though it is undoubtedly an investment piece at over $1000, the design is an object of beauty. In true Raeburn form, the bag is crafted from original German military snow ponchos. Only 50 versions were produced and each is completely unique. Comfort-wise, the padded back and adjustable straps offer a snug, supported fit.

4. Little America Backpack by Herschel Supply Co.

We love the combination of sturdy camo and molded red rubber straps on this Herschel piece. Inspired by classic mountaineering style, the Little America features a padded laptop sleeve, a media pocket to keep your smart phone safe and secure and super breathable air mesh straps. As one of the larger Herschel designs, this is the perfect companion for a daily commute and after work gym session.

5. No. 372 Rucksack by Billy Kirk

The 372 rucksack by Billy Kirk has been designed with your every day rucksack needs in mind; spacious enough to carry all your paraphernalia – but small enough to travel seamlessly on a packed subway – robust enough to withstand wear and tear and crafted from high quality waxed cotton. This utilitarian design is ideal for fans of heritage style and, with a interior padded laptop slot, numerous compartments and padded adjustable straps, it’s every function-lovers dream.

Jodie Kharas
Jodie Kharas
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Jodie Kharas is a style, art and culture writer who lives in London. She has contributed to the online platforms of POP…
Topics
Breitling unveils updated Superocean Heritage with Hawaiian surf inspiration
Wave rider: Breitling's superocean heritage update celebrates hawaiian surf heritage with kelly slater
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Breitling refreshes its Superocean Heritage collection for the first time since 2017, introducing updated sizes, the new B31 manufacture movement, and a limited edition created in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater. This revision balances vintage 1950s style with modern elegance and pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture through special partnerships.

The Superocean Heritage line originally launched in 1957 as Breitling’s dive watch, combining stylish design with underwater capability. Early models like the Ref. 1004 time-only and Ref. 807 chronograph featured spear and arrow hands, anodized rotating bezels, and compact proportions—appealing to those who valued both aesthetics and function.

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G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
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The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
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The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
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The GTS is priced at $7,630, with only 250 pieces available. It offers strong value, considering the in-house movement and Lucent Steel construction. The power reserve display, located between 8 and 10 o'clock, is styled like a car fuel gauge, reinforcing its appeal to car enthusiasts through practical design elements.
Both watches demonstrate Chopard's dedication to automotive history. They show how different approaches—tribute chronographs and technical upgrades—can appeal to various collector tastes. The Lucent Steel construction ensures both models display Chopard's renowned bright finish, which must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The contrast in pricing and features makes the GTS Power Control especially attractive for enthusiasts seeking the quality of an in-house movement at a more accessible price.

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