Going to the dentist to get your teeth pulled is probably more enjoyable that picking out a gift, even if it’s for that special someone. Of course, you may be someone that enjoys seeing people’s joy when receiving a gift from you. Either way, finding that special gift can sometimes still be a challenge.

Finding out that special someone happens to be a poker player and you believe the options are limited right? Some cards at the magic shop and plastic chips will do, no? Now, if you have a hobby, then you’d understand that there are many cool things that people in your niche don’t understand and poker is no different. If you search deep enough you’ll find the options are limitless. Check out the following list of poker fans essentials and I’m sure you’ll make that poker fan in your life very happy!

1. Cool Playing Cards

There’s no game if you don’t have a deck of these, and if you have more the better! One type of cards you may never have heard of are plastic ones. Plastic cards can withstand constant shuffling and have a very long shelf life. Here’s a tip, watch out for cards made of vinyl, as they are known to be less durable. Did I mention they can be washed?

Plastic too weird for you? Then consider authentic casino playing decks. The cards are the same card used in actual casinos. These cards are not drilled or straight cut cards. One will feel like a pro when handling them.

2. Poker Chips Sets

Clay and clay composites are the only types of chips you should be considering. There are plastics that try to imitate, but nothing compares to the authentic feel of clay chips.

Variations that are available are chips that include metal inserts which will effect the price drastically. Paulson chips are one of the most well known brands and would be an excellent choice. One can find unique specialty chips that include images of your favorite sports team for example.

3. Poker Table tops

A real serious poker player would have a dedicated poker table, but for most of us a tabletop will do. First thing you have to consider is the amount of players as there variations available for as many as 10 players.

Segmented centers allow for smoother action during play. Plush padding and cup holders are most definitely a welcome addition and worth the expense. Vinyl coated bottoms are the standard when looking for tabletops that won’t damage your regular table.

When choosing a tabletop, the ability to be folded and stored away is an important factor. Paying attention to the felt quality can prevent you from buying cheaper ones that quickly show signs of wear. Why not get a custom logo printed while you’re at it?

4. Poker Carrying Cases

Poker players love nice cases, especially if they have frequent games at their friends homes. The intricate details available on wood cases make them very popular, however aluminum cases come with durability that wood can’t match. Many cases have an option for a telescopic handle for easier mobility.

Look out for the quality of the interior. Padding varies from each manufacturer. The availability of racks and cases within the case are also a compelling reason to consider this, not to mention it keeps the poker area neat.

5. Dealer Button

One would never think a simple thing like a button can make a difference. Having a unique dealer button helps you stand out especially if you have a button with a built-in tournament blind timer! This combines two essential elements of tournament play,the ability to be safely passed as a dealer button while simultaneously keeping the blind times at your fingertips.

6. Card Shufflers

Want to really impress someone? Have a card shuffler and you’ll feel like your in a real casino! Battery operated and constructed with wood or plastic, a shuffler can make your life easier and save one from being accused of cheating. The value of that is priceless.

Varieties come in two and four decks arrangements. The ultimate version is the shoe which boasts a heavy steel roller which has smooth action. You know you’d like one.

It’s my wish that the above list got your creative juices flowing and it’s possible to come up with that ultimate gift! Mixing and matching the above ideas or just buy everything. That’s a very lucky poker player.

There has long been an association between the makers of world-class precision racing cars and the makers of world-class precision watches. It’s a natural correlation, as both parties rely on complex mechanisms to compete and succeed in their fields. Since the performance of racing cars is often measured in hundredths or even thousandths of a second, the livelihoods of racing car owners, drivers, and crews are largely dependent on the ability to quickly and easily mark and track very small increments of time.

As always, demand drives innovation, and the makers of Breitling and TAG Heuer watches have built their reputations by making superb chronographs and by responding to the needs of professionals in the racing industry.

Breitling Watches Inspired by Bentley Racing Cars

Bentley’s association with Breitling goes back quite a few years, and it has been mutually beneficial for both parties. In the early years, Bentley concentrated on making racing engines. Race tracks allowed them to push an engine to its limit, which in turn allowed them to continually refine production. As Bentley engines broke speed thresholds and other innovators hoped to keep up, the need for precision chronographs rose. Breitling responded by creating a series of Bentley-inspired watch models.

Bentley Motors Series

This series includes a variety of models available in steel or yellow gold, which feature glare-proof cambered sapphire crystals; 38 jewels, 30-second, 15-minute, and 6-hour totalizers; variable tachometers; self-winding capabilities, and a great deal more. Models in the Bentley Motors Series include:

The Bentley Motors T-The Motors T series of racing watches comes available in satin-brushed or high polished finishes that show off the distinctive dials.

The Bentley 6.75-Inspired by the Bentley 6.75-liter engine, the biggest engine Bentley has produced so far, each model in this line features subtle but sophisticated variations on the 6.75 theme.

The Bentley GT-This model sports a bi-directional rotating bezel; water resistance to 330 feet; three sub-dials, and the distinctive Bentley series knurled bezel.

The Bentley GT Racing-The cambered sapphire crystal on the GT Racing model is protected by a bi-directional, rotating slide rule bezel for tracking lap times. The distinctive Bentley ‘Flying B’ over the day/date adds panache.

The Bentley GMT-The GMT has been called a ‘wrist sculpture’ because of its larger size and its striking, red-gold finish option. It features an ingenious, multiple time-zone display for distance racing, and is a favorite of collectors.

The Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon-The Mulliner Tourbillon is a very limited edition Breitling Bentley racing watch with one large sub-dial and two smaller sub-dials. This watch is highly prized by serious collectors and comes with a steep asking price if they can find one.

TAG Heuer Watches Inspired by Racing Cars

TAG Heuer watches draw their names and inspiration not from a car manufacturer, but from the tracks where racing cars compete (with one exception: the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Series). Each series sports a unique look and dial layout, and most are available in both men’s and women’s styles. Long a favorite of drivers and crewmen alike, TAG Heuer racing watches provide the practical functions that race car professionals need combined with the sleek, classic styling that has always been a TAG Heuer hallmark. Models in this line include:

The Le Mans Centigraph-This watch was the pioneer of the 1/1000th of a second timing system inspired by the legendary 24-hour race. Steve McQueen wore one in the 1970 namesake movie that made this model iconic.

The Carrera Chronograph-Named after the grueling and challenging Carrera Panamericana Mexico race, this model was worn by most Formula 1 drivers in the 70s, and early models are coveted by serious collectors.

The Formula 1 Chronotimer-The Formula 1 features an innovative consecutive times register as well as elapsed and total time chronograph functions and a bold bezel with large notches for easy calibration.

The Monaco-The world’s first square-cased chronograph, the Monaco, was launched in 1969. Its unique look created a sensation among racing professionals and fans alike.

The Monza-The TAG Heuer Monza has a look all its own, with its distinctive ‘cushion shape’ and three sub-dials in different shapes for tracking time trials. The numbers on the face are quite bold, making the Monza a practical choice for distance-race drivers who need to be able to mark the time at a glance.

Please bear in mind that these race car-inspired watches from Breitling and TAG Heuer are broad representations. Almost all of them have several sub-models within each model, and in most cases, it takes a collector’s eye and experience to note the subtle differences. Both watch manufacturers have gone to great lengths to design and craft these superb watches for practicality and style. As far as professional race car drivers, crewmen, and collectors are concerned, these watches belong in the winner’s circle.