LA-based Icon is one of those companies that I try to avoid. I mean this in the best possible way. I avoid it all because I want one of those fucking trucks really bad. I actually think it has transcended want, I need one of those things. The truth of the matter is, it ain’t happenin anytime soon. Unless I win the pick six next time I am at the track (Luck, anyone?), an Icon truck is sadly far away on the horizon.

Being aesthetically awesome (and retro), but still functioning well enough to be a daily driver is the whole point of the company. The guys over at eGarage caught up with Icon founder Jonathan Ward about the mission of the company and a little program that it is launching called Derelicts. Want to know more? Watch the film. Want an Icon? Get in line. [ICON]

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That old Land Cruiser I saw in Aspen a couple of years ago? I haven’t forgotten it and haven’t stopped watching the used market for them (I’m not a buyer, just a lurker). Yesterday I discovered this fully-restored 1978 truck and had to show it off here. It’s a pristine ride, but not going to come cheap at nearly $40,000. Though, I suppose that’s the price when you don’t do any of the work yourself. Either way it is more affordable than this bad boy.

The old 40 Series FJs are really great looking old trucks. Even though they are sort of Jeep / Land Rover clones, they still look great, especially when restored as nicely as this FJ40.

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• Attention people of NEO: Ohio Knitting Mills Pop Up Shop | [Ohio Knitting Mills]
• American denim versus American pick-up trucks | [Man on the Move] [Pictured]
• The history of the Leatherman tool | [Popular Mechanics]
• An inside look at Russell Moccasin | [Quality Control]
• Everyone on my gift list is getting a Tomahawk for Christmas. | [American Tomahawk]

*Bonus link for the gents (NSFW) (via Sean Sullivan): Oh Snaps Carlos

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This fall, eyewear maker Persol is releasing a special pair of “Steve McQueen” edition sunglasses. The 714 was worn frequently by McQueen (he preferred the blue lenses, but I like the “honey” color with the tortoise shell frame as pictured above) in movies and in real life, and the glasses are part of what made the man one of Hollywood’s most celebrated style icons. It is my thought that McQueen’s lauded personal style was very consciously thought-out and crafted as part of his image. The brands and items he wore was part of a deliberate effort to enhance his star power. Now, with that said, I don’t think this was a bad thing and I can’t think of any actors in the past or present that are as masculine or cool as McQueen. Think about today’s movie stars and try to name someone that is as tough and cool as McQueen. I bet you can’t do it.

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Well now, everything dies, baby, that’s a fact. But maybe everything that dies someday comes back. -Bruce Springsteen

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Since we are riffing on the arrival of autumn weather, what store could be better to highlight than the perennial fall favorite, Orvis. The hook and bullet shop has a pretty awesome line-up for fall including some tasty Alden boots, loads of Barbour and all of the waspy staples that one would ever need. When I worked in Midtown (Manhattan), I would sneak away and waste all sorts of time at the Orvis outpost on Fifth Avenue. I love the idea of being in a massive city and looking at fly fishing accoutrements and other assorted man-gear. Some of my favorite items below.

Alden Aviator boot

Barbour Border Jacket in navy

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My nostalgia for Kodachrome 1950s and 1960s American has been well documented. Not too long ago I discovered this man’s flickr photostream and was completely taken aback, so here we go again. The photos document (in great detail) a family and their various trips throughout the American West hunting, fishing, riding bicycles. And all in quintessential 1950s/1960s clothing — plaid shirts, dark denim, white tee shirts and Chuck Taylor sneakers. Inspiration abounds below.

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