If you’ve been keeping tabs on the budget, you might have realized that despite creating an amazing collection of watches, I still have about $400 left over, and I’ve done this intentionally. I mentioned above that in addition to being a watch enthusiast, I also have an affinity for everyday carry (EDC) gear. If I found myself with $5,000 to spend, I would buy the three watches above, but I’d also pick up a new backpack to add to my collection.
Bonus item: Mystery Ranch ASAP – $365
In the watch industry, one of the most important things to a brand is its heritage. Even to people who aren’t watch aficionados, names like “Rolex” and “Omega” mean something. Just like the watch industry, having a well-known and proven heritage can be a huge selling point for any backpack/soft goods brand, a history Mystery Ranch is proud to claim. Mystery Ranch was founded with one purpose in mind, “to minimize the burden on your back”.
The pack I’ve chosen for this recommendation, the ASAP, is built from the ground up in Bozeman, Montana. Originally designed for the military, the ASAP has features that I believe are essential for daily use. Starting with the straps, the ASAP features Mystery Ranch’s Futura Harness, a multi-size, adjustable harness capable of dialing in the perfect fit, just like a micro-adjust clasp on your watch. Between the load-bearing capabilities and fine-tuning, the Futura harness allows for the perfect fit and makes the bag feel almost weightless.
Moving to the back of the pack, there are several interesting features to note, mainly the Tri-zip design and the brain compartment. Mystery Ranch’s tri-zip design allows for multiple points of access to all areas of the bag, eliminating the need to empty your pack to find a small item that’s made its way to the bottom. Above the “Y” of the zippers sits a smaller, quick-access pocket known as the “brain pouch.” This pouch is perfect for any items that you might need quick access to, but do not want in your pockets. Personally, I keep my keys and a small pocket notebook in this section at all times. Lastly, the exterior of this pack is covered in webbing known as “Molle,” which can be used to attach any number of accessories (like a water bottle pocket) and allows the user to create a custom layout and increase functionality. Comparing this to the watch industry, it would be like buying a field watch and deciding to add a chronograph complication, just because you wanted to.
