A founding partner of Naartjie Clothing, Mike Elliott joined Luxottica in 2009 as MD for Sunglass Hut in SA. The brand has 140 branches around the country.

Mike Elliot
Mike Elliot
Image: Christof van der Walt @ One League

The one indulgence you would never forgo? Coffee – can’t get my day under way without at least two good flat whites or cappucinos.

The grooming staples you are never without? I hate to admit this one but I have become totally dependent on a good styling wax.

Your all-time favourite gadget? My Garmin Forerunner GPS and training watch.

The single object you would never part with? That has to be my sunglasses – my Persols and Ray-Bans are the favourites. Once you get used to wearing good sunglasses, you feel naked and lost without them.

Your favourite drink? A good blended Scotch whisky.

The restaurant you frequent most often? The sushi bar at the Codfather in Camps Bay.

Your personal style signifier? Denim pants with a blazer.

The last thing you bought and loved? My Oakley Airbrake ski goggles with Prizm lenses – they don’t fog up and life just looks better in all conditions.

Your favourite timepiece and why? I have two favourites – my TAG Heuer for smarter wear and my Oakley 12 Gauge for casual wear. I love how solid and chunky it is.

An unforgettable place you’ve travelled to in the past year? A surf trip to the Maldives with family and friends and spending hours in the water with my son.

The book on your bedside table? I am trying to learn Italian so I have Italian books next to my bed, in my office and in my briefcase. Always close.

The last meal that truly impressed you? The Taste Kitchen in Woodstock – I keep a rolling reservation. 

The last music you downloaded? Jamie  Cullum, Interlude.

The thing you are eyeing next? A new bicycle – always a Giant guy. 

The one thing you will always find in your fridge? My wife calls it “green juice” – our juicer runs daily.

The best gift you’ve given recently? I gave my wife a watch for a special birthday.

And the best one you’ve received? A Weber gas braai – after years of being anti the convenient gas solution, I am now the biggest promoter.

The place that inspires you and why? The ocean. I find the solitude of paddling a surf-ski in the ocean or surfing in uncrowded conditions a grounding and humbling way to experience nature and exercise at the same time.

A recent special “find/discovery”? I have never drunk gin before and got exposed to craft gin recently. Loving the Hope on Hopkins gin I purchased recently, which is being distilled in Woodstock.

The last item you added to your wardrobe? A couple of shirts from Massimo Dutti.

Favourite city and why? Cape Town – I simply never tire of returning home and never stop appreciating the beauty and lifestyle it offers. After years of travel, no place has tempted me to change where I stay.

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