After Moleskine, the manufacturer of traditional, hardbound leather journals, released a protective case for the Kindle, demand for a similar product for the Apple iPad has been on the rise. The concept makes intuitive sense: the Moleskine is the preferred diary of creative types. It is both rugged and elegant. The iPad is of course the preferred e-reader for that same crowd. After a short wait, those who want to protect their iPad with style have a choice: the DODO case for iPad or the newcomer: The Case, Vol. 2 by Pad and Quill.
Like the DODO case, The Case, Vol. 2 costs about 60 USD. Both cases are solidly built, and both have a striking resemblance to Moleskine products. There are important difference, however. The Case, Vol. 2 is designed with a sleek clasp that not only holds the covers shut when not in use, but also doubles as a stand for viewing media or typing with a bluetooth keyboard.
The cover on The Case, Vol. 2 can also be folded back so that the user can rest the iPad on his or her lap at a comfortable angle. The cleverest addition is the red fabric “bookmark,” which is actually used for easily removing the iPad from the case. The Case, Vol. 2 for iPad earns high marks in both form and function. It is recommended for anyone who wants to restore some 19th-century charm to their 21st-century reading device.
For rugged outdoor enthusiasts who also expect comfort, Jeep introduces its all new off-road camper. Stringently tested for the roughest conditions, this camper goes where other campers do not dare venture. With amenities making this new camper “home away from home,” and a variety of colours to fit every taste, this small but roomy trailer sleeps four adults. There are two models available, the Trail Edition for the casual camper, and the Extreme Edition with its heavier frame, larger tires, additional ground clearance, and an underbody skid plate. Both editions feature a convenient stowable table, a queen-size bed, a comfortable sofa (which converts into a second bed), a built-in aluminium cabinet, and sturdy canvas sides for protection against the elements.
Likening back to the days of World War I, rugged four-wheel drive vehicles have captured the fancy of anyone with a hearty sense of adventure. The Icon FJ series is a modernized version of a classic staple: the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser. The Icon resembles the original 40 series, but with upgrades all around, including aeronautically-styled dash panels, four-wheel disc brakes, a V8 350hp engine, and a Teflon-based powder coating that can stand up to the harshest of environments. This beauty comes at a cost, though, starting around £81,000. The three distinct models come as the classic short-wheeled base (FJ40), a longer wheel-base with a bit more room (FJ43), and the long-bed pickup that excels as a powerful workhorse (FJ45).
Think of it as a Chevrolet Camero that came back to its class reunion sexier than ever. While the custom car was created for the 2010 science fiction movie “Jinn,” starring Ray Park (think Darth Maul from Star Wars I), 50 clones have been built. And to be sure, this is the Darth Maul of cars. Clad in black, red, and a leather interior, the car is like a Pontiac Firebird with a particularly nasty attitude.
But it’s not just about looks. A supercharger combined with a cold-air intake system help the Firebreather achieve a whopping 599 horsepower. The sight lines aren’t good, but when you’ve got that much power, where are you going to be looking but straight forward?
When you’ve been making quality cars for decades, how much do you want to change? The 2012 Mercedes-Benz is a four-door coupe with a shallow back seat. The CLS features a V-8, and though rear passengers will be cramped, the console has been rearranged for the driver’s convenience. As for looks, the car’s lines are more muscled. The passenger compartment shifts ever-so-slightly to the rear, trading wanna-be sedan for more of a sports car look. And compared to the 2004 model, which sported smooth, rounded body curves, the 2012 model looks like it has been to the gym. The character lines that ripple across the doors stand out like cables, and the grill and hood have been tightened up considerably.
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