I guess there were only a few funny things about the WWII, if any at all, yet this event in the human history has generated quite strong passions among certain people. One of them is the passion for that retro, vintage look in things. And, since there are people who are always looking to collect this kind of stuff, of course there will always be people manufacturing such gear over and over again. Spirit of Saint Louis is one of the British manufacturers deeply involved in this, and it really looks like it actually knows its way around.

One of its latest works is an exquisite example of how design and functionality can be majestically mixed together: the iPod Boombox from Spirit of Saint Louis is indeed one thing you don't run into everyday.

Basically, we're talking about a fully functional stereo entertainment system comprising pretty much anything a serious listener could ever desire in a boombox: a CD player, an iPod dock, a three-band radio receiver and, of course, no-nonsense stereo speakers. So far, these specs are quite the usual but, when adding their most unconventional, WWII-styled casing and knobs, with pressed metal plates and metal rocking switches, all looking bulky and at the same time dramatically elegant, things change a lot.

And, as if the general appearance of this boombox was simply not enough, Spirit of Saint Louis has decided to have everything loaded inside a wooden crate, with the speakers attached to the inner side of the lid, the proper retro way. Of course, in the most warlike manner, the wooden crate comes with metal handles on the sides and truly sturdy locking latches, with a reinforced look that can really take a beating.

The Spirit of Saint Louis iPod Boombox is the ideal gift, fit for an aviation enthusiast's home or similar clubs, or even in a matching-style office. The $585 price tag might be a little of a setback for some, but I just know countless others who will be more than happy to buy this exclusive piece of gadgetry.

We are just a few, but there are many of you, Softpedia users, out there. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to create an email address for you to help us a little in finding gadgets we missed. Interesting links are bound to be posted with recognition going mainly to those who submit. The address is .