The 11 Ultimate Just Like Papa Gifts for People Who (Almost) Have it All

From exquisitely crafted blades, heritage espresso makers and Stealth e-bikes to Swedish-made axes and the ultimate hunter’s wristwatch – you’re sure to find the perfect gifts at Just Like Papa in Harrington Street, Cape Town

There was a time before most of us were born when products were made to last. Strong, durable items which were crafted by skilled professionals using local materials that stood the test of time – and still do. This is why antique stores are so full of “stuff” from yesteryear. Stuff that won’t die. Cannot die. Because they were handmade by craftsmen with scars on their knuckles. Made to last. Forever.

This is where Just Like Papa comes into the story. This retail outlet based on Harrington Street opened its doors in mid-2017 to become one of Cape Town’s most unique speciality stores through its offering: real goods, made real good.

The local and international trend of demand for high-quality, handmade, made-to-last outdoor and lifestyle gear has grown well beyond the sphere of hipster retail trends. Artisanal blades. Handcrafted axes. Watches that are more advanced than most satellites in Earth’s orbit. These are the kinds of products and gifts we want today.

Whether it’s about nostalgia for the “good ol’ days” of chopping wood and navigating by compass, or that we’re just rebelling against the generally cheap and easy plastic products forced on us today, men and women are more and more looking for something special, utilitarian, artisanal and robust enough to hand down to the next generation. Things that will outlast even our children’s children. Give this to us and we will buy it.

These are the kind of things you’ll find at Just Like Papa in Cape Town

ENTER THE BELLY OF THE BEAST

Stepping inside Just Like Papa’s Harrington Street retail outlet (the online store is now open), which is nicknamed “the belly of the beast” is literally like walking into the chest cavity of a monstrous whale – it was designed that way by some of the country’s leading designers. Aside from the beautiful aesthetic, the treasures to be found here lie in display cabinets and shelves; this is certainly one of the finest places in Cape Town to purchase a unique gift for a loved one or friend – for both men and women.

Just Like Papa’s offering spans several categories which include camping, every day, survival, tactical, home and the more specific gifting set of products, with prices ranging from R45 upward to R175 000.

Here are some of our favourites.

POPULAR AND TIMELESS GIFTS

1. JACOB BROMWELL POPCORN POPPER

Who doesn’t enjoy good old-fashioned popcorn? On Just Like Papa’s shelves, you can find the Jacob Bromwell Original Popcorn Popper, an authentic American popper which has been at the forefront of popcorn-making for over 197 years – this classic has been in use around countless campfires for nearly two centuries. Working over an open fire or stove-top, kernels, salt and a little oil are all it needs.
Price: R2020

2. BIALETTI MOKA EXPRESS 4 CUP

For the coffee connoisseur, the Bialetti Moka Express 4 Cup is the perfect gift. A highly popular item in Just Like Papa’s home category, this stovetop espresso maker produces rich Italian coffee in minutes.
Price: R605

3. HANDPRESSO PUMP

Another coffee-related item is the versatile Handpresso Pump, which enables the drinker to become the barista with this nifty tool – every cup can be adjusted to preference with its adapter.
Price: R1920 

4. KAWECO CLASSIC SPORT BORDEAUX FOUNTAIN PEN

Penmanship is not dead. At Just Like Papa you can pick up an exquisite – and affordable – Kaweco Classic Sport Bordeaux Fountain Pen, a sporty and compact pen made from high-quality materials.
Price: R355

5. FISHER 338 CARTRIDGE SPACE PEN

For those shopping with a higher budget, the Fisher 338 Cartridge Space Pen is made from a .338 H Mag shell, sporting a raw brass finish which makes for a distinctive gift.
Price: R960

6. MADKON AMMO BOX BRAAI

This is a nifty portable grill which is ideal for an intimate braai enjoyed under the stars. The Madkon Ammo Box Braai’s easy-to-assemble feature make it a fantastic choice for those who wish to travel light but still want the full luxury of a braai grill.
Price: R3030

7. MSR ELIXIR 2-MAN BACKPACKING TENT

The unique pole geometry of this affordable 2-man tent lends itself to spacious headroom, as well as space for fitting in two camper mats. The versatility of the MSR Elixir 2-Man Backpacking Tent’s breathable, mesh fibre is optimised for ventilation, warmth and privacy.
Price: R4445

8. SUUNTO TRAVERSE ALPHA FOLIAGE

One of the most exciting wearables to emerge in recent times for outdoors enthusiasts, hunters and fishermen is the Finnish-made Suunto Traverse Alpha Foilage, a sophisticated watch which equips the user with specific fishing and hunting information, moon phases, a nifty red backlight for nighttime use and sunrise alert.
Price: R6400

9. XT12GT 1600 LUMENS FLASHLIGHT

The Klarus XT12GT 1600 Lumens Flashlight is one of the most innovative and powerful flashlights on the market. Equipped with a one-of-a-kind design, this is no regular flashlight – its beam can reach up to nearly 2000 feet away.
Price: R1845

10. STEALTH B-52 DNM DURABLE RAZORBACK MT5

The star of the show commands the highest price. The Stealth B-52 DNM Durable Razorback MT5 is essentially an electric bike, but its standard features are more sophisticated than most cars. Hitting a top speed of 80 km/h, this beautifully-crafted machine provides the rider with real-time data and vital stats such as speed, battery consumption, range estimation and efficiency at a glance.
Price: R155 000

11. WETTERLINGS AMERICAN FOREST AXE

Hand-forged, high-quality axes are what Swedish axe producer Wetterlings have built their brand upon. This model, the Wetterlings American Forest Axe, incorporates a special design adapted from forestry workers in the United States – its heavy head and long, hickory-crafted handle makes for safe and ergonomic use. 
Price: R2222

When visiting Just Like Papa you’ll notice a varied selection of knives, ranging from Opinel to Kershaw. In this department, deciding what to go for may be a daunting task, but Just Like Papa’s knowledgeable staff are well-versed with knife know-how. Take time to admire the craftsmanship of every blade on display.

Tip: Share the feeling of wonder with your family, friends and colleagues. The Just Like Papa space is available for venue hire, so plan your next event or party in this unique setting, located in the increasingly hip East City precinct.

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Discover the artisanal and unique wines of the Western Cape at the Publik Wine Fair. 

Bring back that feeling of nostalgia with Kid in a Candy Store Saturdays with Just like Papa.

Shopping for a last-minute gift? Just Like Papa is open until 7pm on most days.

Searching for a special gift? Check out our summer gifting guide or our overview of special gift ideas crafted in the Mother City.

And, if you're planning a special event or occasion, check out our top function venues in Cape Town.

Also, check out our roundup of the most unique online stores in the city.

After visiting Just Like Papa, be sure to head up the road to visit this authentic Parisian crêperie to get your fix of crêpes.

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