If you're trying to find your dad a gift but just don't want to go for the clichéd socks, jocks or cologne, try to think out the box a little. These tips might help you find something your dad will really cherish.

A trip down memory lane

How about getting your dad something that not only brings back memories of old perhaps but is an investment and one-of-a-kind gift?

"Dads like history and they like to reminisce about the past, so planning a gift around this goes a long way — nothing says history and experience better than antiques," says Antiques guru and owner of Grand Hotel Antiques, Zeke Kerbel.

Antiques are a very personal thing, so make sure you ask your local antique-store owner for a bit of advice. "Take some time to think about his interests, try thinking about what he might like to do if he had the spare time to do it, " says Zeke.

If DIY is his thing, why not get him a set of antique tools that will take him back in time? To add function to fascination, how about and an old work bench, made from solid antique wood? Not only will he appreciate the thought, but also the workmanship and long lasting quality of this piece of history.

It's amazing how an antique sign, a couple of old bottles, some old framed photographs, or perhaps even an old classic telephone could add to your dad's study, room, workshop…

To find that perfect piece and spoil your dad this Fathers' Day, visit Grand Hotel Antiques, corner 5th and Morkel, Albertville or contact the store on +27 11 673 2345 for more information.

For the wine guru

Our wine expert Michael Bampfield-Duggan of Wine Concepts suggests something a little more practical for your father — if he's a wine enthusiast of course. The Clef du Vin is a unique wine accessory which essentially is a measuring instrument that will immediately tell you if your wines are suitable for laying down, thus revealing their ageing potential.

Invented by the French winemaker, Laurent Zanon, and assisted by Frances top Sommelier, Franck Thomas, the Clef du Vin also allows you to fully appreciate a good young wine or even a wine that is much too young, without having to wait. It also helps to determine the best possible moment to appreciate a wine.

By using the Clef du Vin you will be able to accelerate maturing in order to work out the laying down potential, knowing that one second of contact with the wine is equivalent to one year of ageing.

The Clef du Vin, available in either pocket or service models, is used by Winemakers, Sommeliers and Wine enthusiasts all over the World.

See the website for details www.clef-du-vin.com

When it comes to wine Mike has some specials on offer. And he has some great suggestions for your dad, you can also order from his shop. Email him at michael@wineconcepts.co.za.

For the food-loving father

For the dad who loves to cook, or perhaps even the ones who needs a little help in the kitchen, there are loads of great recipe books available in stores.

One book which is definitely worth investing in is 'Zoozsh: Cooking with Jeremy and Jacqui Mansfield'. This fabulous and flippant cookbook will have your dad laughing out loud in the kitchen.

To acquire a copy for your dad visit www.struik.co.za or take a drive to your local bookstore.

Whatever you decide on for Fathers' Day remember that spending time with your dad is the best gift of all...