When they say “good things come in small packages”, this is really what we’re talking about. Fine jewellery and luxury mechanical watches that not only show how well you know someone, but also how much you care. From minimal chains to impactful pendant necklaces, always-worn bracelets, earrings, rings and cufflinks to statement pieces for special occasions, in gold, silver and titanium. All imbued with meaning cast into the materials. That, like the metals and colourful stones, the wearer, to you, is precious. Look out for a full guide to buying jewellery as a gift – coming soon.

“A watch is a lovely thing to give as a gift for any occasion, but especially for the holidays,” writes Adam Cheung in our guide to giving a timepiece as a present. “However, choosing one can feel like a bigger job than it needs to be.” The key for understanding men who love watches is to look at what they already wear. Or look at what they do and their wardrobe, and work backwards from there. At MR PORTER, we stock a range of dress, sports, diving and pilot watches and chronographs, with pieces from the likes of Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Hermès Timepieces.

As with everything in life, the best gift ideas for men are all about the finer details. By which we mean luxury accessories, such as leather belts and bags, wallets and cardholders – the finishing touches that a man needs to complete his outfit.

First and foremost, a belt is there to hold up his trousers. An important task, but there can be more to it than that. In The Journal, Henry Duffield describes the statement belt as a workhorse accessory that enjoys “show-pony status”. Then again, something lavishly made, but discreet in appearance might be more your guy.

For the man who is going places, a bag is a necessary vessel for his personal effects. A weekend bag, briefcase or even wash bag might be just the thing he needs but is yet to buy himself. Wallets and cardholders, too, hold special meaning – and you will be remembered every time he pulls his out of his pocket.

The best accessories will be treasured for ever and will only become more characterful with age. Better yet, you don’t even need to know their size.

A man’s home is his castle. And while what he does in it is his own business, we can at least ensure it’s set up for a king. From barware to home fragrances, we have the best luxury home gifts for a stylish and comfortable life. Plush cushions and cashmere throws for his throne. Ornaments and practical gifts, well made from the finest materials. Speakers, turntables and other tech gifts worth making some noise about. How about a candle to light up a room? (If not his darkest hour over the winter solstice.)

A new toy for his mancave, perhaps? The best way to win Christmas might just be with a top-of-the-line board game. We have card, chess and backgammon sets that will knock his socks off. And for the driver in your life, why not buy him a new car?*

*Scale model.

One approach is to throw money at a problem. But if you take the time, an impressive present can be sourced without breaking the bank. Or set the tone with stocking fillers (or stuffers) that rival the main gift for maximum impact. Listen out for any hints he drops. Better yet, take note of what he needs – take his pyjamas or underwear to the next level, raise his glass with spectacular tableware, or shake things up with a cocktail shaker.

Hats, scarves and gloves are always appreciated at this time of the year – especially those made from cashmere. And socks: is he getting enough? One thing he will require in the coming year is a new diary, so be the one he thinks of every time he sets a date.

Every man has space in his wardrobe for a better sweater. From traditional knits to statement pieces, MR PORTER stocks a flock of woollens. Luxury cardigans and crew-neck jumpers; shawl collars, knitted zip-throughs and rollnecks. For that special touch, try our cashmere lines. Heritage styles such as Fair Isle, cable-knit and Donegal pieces are as traditional as they come but are especially on trend right now. And if this season’s bright colours aren’t his thing, more muted tones should go with anything.

“It’s often seen as the main event more than the supporting role that it once was, as shown by the number of established and specialist designers who are investing more time and creative resources into creating special pieces,” Benedict Browne, MR PORTER’s Style Director, says of the current roster of knitwear. Making such a piece perfect for a powerful present. Brands to look for include specialists such as Inis Meáin and our own Mr P., while Brunello Cucinelli and The Elder Statesman are known for their cashmere.

As for gifts for fitness lovers, we have all bases covered. At MR PORTER, you’ll find the right gear for many sports, including running, tennis, training, ski and snow. Sneakers to put them through their paces, from the likes of Nike, adidas Running, On, Asics and Hoka – serious shoes to help shave seconds off his PBs. And there’s a new generation of kit from stylish brands that might not yet be on his radar, such as Literary Sport, Portal and Satisfy.

Our ski shop is now live, with high-end equipment for altitudes to match. Shop Brunello Cucinelli, Fusalp and Moncler Grenoble for the best in class – and on the piste (or powder). And for the outdoors type, jackets, gilets and base layers – both high-tech and traditional – from Goldwin, Salomon and Purdey.

A sneaky peek at their shoe size opens up a wealth of footwear options. For collectors, a new pair of stylish sneakers will get you off on the right foot – at MR PORTER, you’ll find everything from can’t-go-wrong Common Projects to the latest On x LOEWE collaborations, via Nike, adidas Originals, Maison Margiela and Zegna.

As for “proper” shoes, there are boots, Derby shoes and loafers to step up to the plate. Go for formal shoes in leather or suede to keep him on his toes. Splash out on handmade footwear from John Lobb, Edward Green or Berluti – key pieces that will last a lifetime. Or, for a different kind of pinnacle, hiking boots are one of the styles on the rise.