Pairs Well With: The Tempest Watches Carbon 2

Earlier this week, we reviewed the new Carbon 2 dual-crown diver from Tempest Watches. The Carbon 2 is a sequel to a watch the brand first released in 2014. What made that piece unique, and what is carried over to this latest iteration, is the use of forged carbon as the case material. Forged carbon, as some of you may know, is a relatively new synthetic composite finding increased use in the automotive industry, where it is prized for its lightness and high strength.

Within the realm of horology, forged carbon is generally reserved for use in high-end and luxury sports watches, which only further highlights what Tempest Watches achieved here, and that is to bring this exotic material to the masses in a watch that is under $1,000.

Today’s Pairs Well With appropriately matches the Carbon 2 to some of our favorite technical duds—clothes that are built for purpose utilizing unique construction and fabrics to maximize their overall utility. And for added synergy, we’ve stuck to a largely monochromatic look in honor of the marbling on the case.

1. Patagonia Piolet Jacket

The distinguishing characteristic of the Piolet is definitely the twin layers of GORE-TEX fabric that make up the shell. GORE-TEX essentially exploits the pressure gradient between your skin and the inside of the jacket. The outer layer is backed by a Teflon membrane that prevents water molecules from entering while the inner layer pulls sweat towards the microporous membrane. Because the sweat droplets are bigger than the membrane openings, your sweat is quite literally vaporized as it’s drawn through. This culminates into an incredibly durable, yet breathable and lightweight coat.

The Piolet is designed with both efficiency and comfort in mind. It’s treated with a durable water repellent finish to repel the elements without dragging you down with heavy fabrics and hardware. Likewise, the face of the fabric is tightly woven to boost water repellency and resistance against abrasions, and the gusseted underarm panels ensure maximum mobility. On top of all that, the Piolet boasts a helmet-compatible hood, microfleece chin padding, and the brand’s Touch Point system to adjust the fit of the jacket without having to take it off.

The Piolet jacket is also aesthetically pleasing. Coming in eight colors ranging from neutrals to brighter tones iconic to Patagonia, the different variations are sure to satisfy any preference. Coming in at just under $300, Patagonia’s Piolet is serious bang-for-your-buck, easily challenging technical jackets at much higher price points.

4. Everlane Modern Snap BackPack

Since 2010, Everlane has been changing the game of retail not just with their stylish offerings, but with their unmatched degree of openness when it comes to their business practices. The San Francisco-based company’s “radical transparency” highlights the conditions of its factories and breaks down the cost factors associated with each item. Everlane only sells products online, eliminating the cost adjustment of brick & mortar to keep prices as low as possible. The result is an ethical and innovative company that, to put it simply, keeps it honest.

The Modern Snap Backpack is one of Everlane’s most popular offerings. The bag employs a stylish, contemporary design with enough compartments and space so as to ensure functionality. The exterior is a treated water-resistant cotton twill with a cotton-poly blend lining. Two leather straps serve to fasten the main compartment, which can accommodate a 15” laptop. Twin side pockets are great for water bottles, sunglasses, and anything else that needs to be accessible, while the center zipper pouch is ideal for smaller items like a phone charger or wallet.

The Modern Snap Backpack comes in five neutral colors and retails for $68.

For more sartorial content, visit StylesofMan.