Michael Drake Tartan Plaid Tie

THE ASKMEN TAKE

London’s East Side is known for the remnants of its industrial past. And while it wouldn’t be uncommon to find a dingy factory (the kind that has somehow managed to avoid conversion into overpriced loft space), a functioning one would almost certainly be unheard of. However, Michael Drake is the proud owner of a cottage industry set in the heart of the city’s urban landscape.

Indeed, in monarchical British-speak, Michael Drake is the King of Ties. His 33-year-old label, Drakes London, made scarves exclusively in its early days and has since grown to include everything from a line of knitwear and dress shirts to socks,cufflinks and umbrellas. Today, he claims the title as the largest independent producer of neckties in Great Britain. And this tartan plaid is a classic example of his kingdom’s creations.  

 UNIQUENESS

Drake’s distinctiveness goes far beyond the confines of itsLondon operations. Everything stems from the company’s atypical aesthetic vision: an archetypal British style as perceived by the most discerning markets on earth -- namely, France and Italy. Surprisingly, the result isn’t flavor as artificial or out of place as a burger joint in Japan. Instead, ties like the Tartan Plaid simply nod to the impeccable taste of Drake’s Continental brethren while incorporating the refined traditions of his offshore home. Its plaid pattern (despite being Scottish in origin) is indisputably England, but the shrunken 2 ¾-inch width echoes the suave sound of a sleeker sensibility.

 DURABILITY

This is one of the few labels left that stays true to its geographically based name. Ties are handmade in the company’s London headquarters -- not some overseas sweatshop. And they go through 18 quality control checks before being shipped off in a protective cover. But since this isn’t your everyday $10 bargain-basement tie, it requires a little extra consideration on your end. The cravat crown royal himself recommends rolling rather than hanging ties after wearing them to allow rest and rejuvenation -- a small care cost for one of the pricier ties you’ll ever buy.