Photo by Guillermo Arroyo from Pexels
Almost everyone comes to cherish some part of the past at some point in their lives. Whether stemmed from childhood memories or an unexplained sense of nostalgia for the look and feel of a bygone era, we often find ourselves wanting to experience it first-hand as best as possible.
While no one should ever forget the ugly side of history or mistakenly believe times were better in the past, there’s nothing wrong with taking a trip down memory lane now and then. With Christmas right around the corner, consider the following five gift ideas for the nostalgist in your life:
Vintage Record Player
Does grandma or grandpa have a box of vinyl records they haven’t enjoyed in decades? Consider getting them a portable record player for Christmas. Numerous vintage-style models also come with Bluetooth connectivity. That allows the user to stream music from their smartphone as easily as they lay the needle down on their favorite track. It’s a great way to gift a loved one with the sounds of their past while also giving them access to the music of today.
Air Jordans
The historical timeline of athletic footwear splits into two eras: Before Air Jordan and After Air Jordan. The original series of Nike-designed basketball shoes ignited a shoe craze that endures to this day. For many who grew up idolizing the greatest basketball player of all time, owning a pair of Jordans is the fulfillment of a childhood dream. With several re-releases of the original design and colorways, why not buy someone you know a pair of these iconic sneakers?
Unique Antique
The world of antiques is a vast one. Ranging from the genuinely ancient to relatively recent, it’s a catalog that includes anything made that’s 20 years old or older. With this in mind, the perfect nostalgia-themed gift could be something very unique and particular. If you know someone well enough to discern which eras and periods they prefer, consider finding something exceptionally one-of-a-kind.
Vintage Video Game Console
While most people wish to get the latest Xbox or Playstation this Christmas, others might be more interested in older consoles. If you have trouble tracking down a reasonably priced original gaming console in good condition, consider one of the “classic” versions released in the last few years. These pintsized editions come with several dozen games included in the memory unit. It’s the digital age take on the vintage gaming experience.
Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) Camera
Considered by many to be the sign of a “serious” photographer, a single-lens reflex camera is capable of professional-grade photography. While a real vintage SLR uses 35mm film, a more practical solution is to get a digital SLR (DSLR), which provides the same creative freedom without the hassles of handling, developing, and processing celluloid film.
With a year like the one we’ve had, many people find themselves longing for better days. While the past wasn’t always what it’s cracked up to be, there’s something to be said for the comfort and joy we get from items and experiences that take us back in time. Consider giving someone the gift of nostalgia this holiday. It’s better than a gift card!