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Votaic Systems just launched two new solar chargers that seem handy enough to give a try. The Switch (on left, $129) is a small bag that can carry a day’s essentials while the Amp ($99) is a smaller case that fits into a bag or purse. Both, of course, have solar panels to provide power to your gadgets. For reference, either can charge an iPhone in under 5 hours. Specifications below.

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iPhone owners, take note, a new case/wallet has entered the picture. A leather moleskine-like outside plus an aluminium mounting device equals subdued cool protection. The outside flap could be handy in deterring any prying eyes next to you on the train or subway too.

Several nice colors to choose from… some shown below.

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Inspired by Galileo’s first telescope made in 1609, this little guy has the same focal length of 1 meter, yet is appropriately updated with ‘modern optical technology’ and a contemporary design. Now, whether you use it to for astronomical observations as Galileo did or neighborly spying is completely up to you.

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Liking the look of this Metallic Fatboy Bag? Available in either a small ($139) or medium size ($169), it’s got that utilitarian look that might be perfect for your day to day needs. Plus, with its shoe sole bottom, you can probably afford to throw it around some without worrying about minor scuffing.
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So, sure, you have your Box Appetit, but sticking it straight in your bag is for suckers. This bag is made to carry the Box Appetit, plus there’s room for a drink and a piece of fruit (should you so desire). When open, the waterproof bag can act as a ‘mini blanket’ or placemat.

If you plan your outfit right down to your weather accessories, you might have heard of London Undercover. Established by designer Jamie Milestone in 2008, they offer a fair selection of stylish umbrellas to keep you dry, and perhaps best of all, all the umbrellas are made using recycled materials and minimal waste.

Recycled canvas fabric, recycled metal shafts & frames, recycled and biodegradeable handles and recycled packaging and tags.

I had an opportunity to play around with an iPad this weekend (nevermind it was at this place looking at this stuff) and besides being generally taken with how it works and looks, I came away with a vague dissatisfaction with the plastic case that it was protected by. Now, a plastic case may suit your iPad just fine, but if yours starts showing its age with cracks along the spine (as did the one I saw), please consider a wooden case as a longer lasting alternative. This Shellcase has a metal foot that gives you a stand or angled keyboard option, and though the wood seems to add a bit more heft and size, it certainly provides a welcome warmth to balance out the technology.

Finally, someone created a glass reusable water bottle that’s designed properly and looks awesome too. Other alternatives I’ve seen get pretty close, but I feel like this design certainly nails it. Besides the bamboo sleeve adding quite a bit of style, it fully protects the glass interior. Glass provides an always guaranteed safe drink and can accommodate hot or cold beverages. The parts of the bottle easily disassemble for cleaning and are dishwasher safe, except for the bamboo sleeve.
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Need a messenger bag? How about this waterproof nylon bag by 25togo? It’s got just enough style to set you apart from the crowd and has a handy divider that’s perfect for keeping a laptop secure.

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I’m not sure if you use a desktop calculator or not, but either way you might find yourself wanting to buy this green gem of a number cruncher if only to gaze at it each and every day. I mean, come on, if there’s any reason to go old school, it’s for this baby. It’s got a nicely sized keypad, two-line display, currency converter and tax calculator. Plus, it’s just the right shade of green.
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Only one post today as it’s a bank holiday here in the UK… and seeing that everyone has abandoned the city streets in favor of the green grasses of parks and holiday homes, it’s only appropriate that this picnic tote gets the favored spotlight. Fully equipped and lightweight, you’ll be able to carry food and tools for four people all in one ergonomic backpack. Beats the pants off of an awkward basket, particularly if you’re traveling farther than your backyard.

Corkscrew, cutting board, cheese knife, salt and pepper shakers, acrylic wine glasses, melamine plates, stainless steel flatware, cotton napkins, large picnic blanket, detachable wine holder and insulated cooler compartment all included.

These cards from Old Tom Foolery are just the ticket for getting an unsappy message across. There’s quite a few good ones, so you might want to load up on several for future events.

When you can’t find the right words, these cards will do the talking for you… invaluable in those awkward moments and completely worth $12.

Box of 24 cards.

We’ve featured a couple of other produce bags before ( Wonder Thunder Muslin and the Mesh bags) and these 100% nylon mesh are yet another affordable option.

A closer look at this watch will show that the viewing axis has been rotated 30 degrees, allowing you to read the time without bending your arm or wrist. I bet it would take a little while to get used to it, as we’re all so accustomed to the habit…