It can be challenging to find a gift for men. Fashions come and go, and the same old socks-and-underwear gift can be pretty boring for everyone involved. Most years, my dad’s Christmas and birthday gifts consisted of either new socks, his go-to aftershave, or a tie. I imagine it was, gee whiz, the same ‘ol crap.
I will say that not all men feel this way, and to be honest, for a long time, I depended on Christmas and my birthday to add to my wardrobe. And I’ll never look down on a great bottle of cologne or a great sweater.
However, there is one gift that I personally like getting. I’m a desk jockey who works in the technology field, so I love a cool-looking toy for my desk. I’m talking about kinetic sculptures up to and including precision-machined tools. I also like things that I can fidget with. This comes in handy when I need a break from the screen, or I need to give something some thought while keeping my hands busy.
What Makes a Great Desk Toy?
For starters, I have an eye for great design, so I want something that looks great on my desk. Maybe even a conversation starter. So this means I’m looking for something with a premium build, like something made out of metal, carbon fiber, brass, or machined aluminum.
I also like something that is functional, that keeps my hands busy during a video call or when I’m deep in thought. So it has to be interesting and not flimsy or cheap, and it’s not going to fall apart after a few days.
How to Choose the Right Gadget
Not all men like the same things, so I included a variety of toys that will fit any personality. For the tech guy, like myself, there’s a kinetic desk sculptor and a spinner. There’s an AstroGravity Swing for guys who like modern design, and I threw in moving sand art for the creative type or the stressed-out executive who needs something calming once in a while.
Top Eight Unique Office Toys
Kinetic Spinning Desk Toy
This is a cool gift for the guy who likes engineering. I’ll admit I don’t really understand how it works, but magnets, precision bearings, and carefully weighted parts create a ball that’s constantly in motion. And watching it spin is mesmerizing. It’s a fantastic stress reliever.
The Swinging Sticks
The swinging sticks are a polished, double-pendulum kinetic sculpture that’s a perfect gift for the guy who likes modern design. The arms are in perpetual-motion illusion, creating a surprisingly calming and eye-catching display. It’s also a great conversation piece.
Kikkerland Magnetic Decision Maker
Levitating Globe
I ran across this levitating globe on Wayfair. I think it would make a nice gift for anyone interested in astronomy and engineering. It’s also very eye-catching, and a great conversation piece.
The levitating orb has 16 different lights with a soft white light base. Very relaxing in the office or at home.
Twemco Industrial Flip Clock
Another cool gift for the guy who likes engineering and industry. The industrial flip clock has been around for a long time and is a proven winner for anyone who loves style and function. And it’s also a nice decoration piece with its cool mid-century modern vibe.
Mini Ratchet Keychain Kit
This is a great gift for guys who like tinkering. This gift is pretty useful as you can actually work on things with it.
Although small, the tool is durable and made out of premium materials. Plus, the wrench keychain fits easily in the pocket for those on-the-go repairs.
Luxury Bolt Action Pen
A good pen is a time-honored gift, and this luxury Bastion Bolt Action Pen is sure to impress the person receiving it. And it can take a beating since it’s made out of 100% Aircraft Grade Aluminum.
This EDC (Every Day Carry) pen goes beyond your average pen and can literally survive a lifetime of use.
