uzzle – the quest for intelligent design


Orange Crush Mini Amp
March 27, 2009, 1:40 pm
Filed under: Music / Accessories | Tags: ,

My youngest nephew rips up some pretty hot tunes on his guitars, which is why this travel-sized amp caught my eye. Slick enough to capture hip urban sensibilities and small enough to pop in his messenger bag for impromtu jams.

I have a crush on this crush.

5.75"w, 3"d, 5.5"h

5.75x3x5.5

big sound in a tiny package

big sound in a tiny package

From Urban Outfitters. $72.



Reactor Factory Tees
March 26, 2009, 11:42 pm
Filed under: Threads | Tags: ,

Nice double entendre tee, served up “extra bold.”

rockwell extra bold (and if you have to ask what that means, this tee probably isn't for you)

if you have to ask what this means, this tee probably isn't for you : )

From Reactor Factory. Various styles. $22.



Laura Bauer’s Spiral Notebooks
March 20, 2009, 11:40 pm
Filed under: Stationary/Paper | Tags: , , ,

I’ve been using these for my journals for the past year and there’s really no nicer paper notebook around. Zippy graphics, smooth writing surface and a sturdy cover that folds completely back for easy access to both sides of the paper. Available in various styles.

Laura Bauer's Monkeys

monkeys

From Amadon. $14.99.



Dylan’s Candy Bar
March 20, 2009, 11:13 pm
Filed under: Nibbles | Tags: , , ,

Dylan Lauren (daughter of Ralph) has created a delicious brand, appealing website and a visually delightful storefront; next time you’re in Manhattan, be sure to check out this epicurean delight. Until that time, take comfort in knowing you can order their delicious hot chocolate (and other delights) online.

umm...hazelnut and chocolate...

umm...hazelnut and chocolate...delicious flavors in a snappy package

From Dylan’s Candy Bar. $16 for 12 oz (18 servings.)



Andy Smith
March 20, 2009, 11:12 pm
Filed under: Art, Books | Tags:

With catchy titles & arresting graphics, Andy Smith’s books are quite fetching. Be sure to check out his silkscreened prints, as well.

Andy Smith hand silkscreened books

hand silkscreened

From Andy Smith (who just might have the cutest home page ever.) £5. Limited edition.



Jeff Koons Beach Towel
March 20, 2009, 10:11 pm
Filed under: Art | Tags: , , ,

Huge fan of Jeff Koons’ work; seeing his “dog” and “rabbit” in person was a memorable experience.

Here’s your chance to have a little Jeff in your home – a delightful beach towel with a signature inflatable monkey. Limited edition.

everyone needs an inflatable monkey head on their wall

everyone needs a monkey on their wall

From MCA. $54 members, $60 non-members.



USB Flash Drives
March 13, 2009, 4:57 pm
Filed under: Computer, Cool Tech | Tags: , , , ,

There’s such an interesting market in unique USB drives these days, but this two in particular caught my eye. Choose a rugged key shape

just one of the gang on your keychain

just one of the gang on your keychain

or an ubber-cute robot.

nice robots always hold their own helmets

nice robots always hold their own helmets

quickly attaches to keychain

quickly attaches to keychain

Robot, from Gadget4all. 4 gb, $25.

istaKey, from LaCie. 4 gb, $14.99. 8 gb, $23.99.



Wine Clip
March 13, 2009, 4:52 pm
Filed under: Cocktails | Tags: ,

A magnetic clip that increases the bouquet and complexity of wine. Intriguing concept, no?

Wine Clip

Wine Clip

nice wooden packaging option available

nice wooden packaging option available

From The Wine Clip. $34.95 standard box or $39.95 wooden box.



Bang-Olufsen Headset
March 12, 2009, 10:19 pm
Filed under: Cool Tech, iphone | Tags: , ,

I grew up with a grandfather who loved technology and Bang-Olufsen (B&O) specifically. Thanks to Pop’s influence, I was an official audiophile at an early age.

So I was overjoyed when I found out that B&O made a headset. I’ve traveled in several countries with this beauty (none more challenging of an obstacle than the hills of San Francisco) and always experienced crystal clear calls. And because of B&O’s commitment to quality, it emerged unscathed and in perfect working order after an unfortunate accident going through a wash/dry cycle;.

Due to it’s smashing good looks, it’s the only headset I’ve worn that people comment upon daily.

Right ear headset

Right ear headset - also available in a left ear version

the good looks continue with a combination case/charger

beautifully designed combination carrying case/charger

From Apple. $350.



Go-Go Messenger Bags
March 12, 2009, 1:05 am
Filed under: Auto / Cycling, Luggage / Bags | Tags: ,

Engaging patterns and thoughtful details (check out the hip silver buckle and the hint of orange on the zipper) make both of these messenger bags winners. Measure 15.5″ x 12.5″ x 4″.

Go-Go Owls

Go-Go Owls

Sassy Birds

Sassy Birds

From Delight. $88 each.