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• October 3, 2007
• Object Lesson

Case Study

How to turn up the volume on a modern amenity. By Pamela Liou

To the undiscerning eye, this case seems to be no more than a classy cigarette holder made from the best of fine-grain Italian leather. Upon further inspection, however, you'll discover those ubiquitous white headphones snaking into a port for a jack. You open up the case and—lo' and behold—a sleek hardware interior houses a slim iPod.

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie plays with expectations in their luxury accessories line that acknowledges the unique needs of the modern jetsetter. According to brothers-and-designers Dexter and Byron Peart, their small collection is "inspired by timeless, functional design classics." The Narita iPod case, named after Tokyo's burgeoning airport, recalls Bauhaus aesthetics without seeming stodgy and steam-punk sensibilities minus the gimmicks. The gleaming metal components are the perfect yet unexpected makeweight to balance the simplistic exterior. WANT's aim is to dispel the misconception that traditional craftsmanship cannot be reconciled with the idiosyncratic demands of modern living—to "achieve unity through contrast."

WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie iPod nano case,$175, and iPod video case, $225, both available at South Williard, 8038 West Third Street, Los Angeles; 323-653-6153. Or go to www.southwillard.com.

How to turn up the volume on a modern amenity.