The Haul: Nettwork Music Co-Founder Mark Jowett’s Magic Pen and Favourite Japanese Sneakers

Running the influential Canadian indie label Nettwerk Music Group seems like it would be an all-consuming sort of job (the label launched the careers of Sarah McLachlan, the Barenaked Ladies and Coldplay). But co-founder Mark Jowett has managed over the past 40 years to squeeze in at least some time to record music of his own under the name Plain Mister Smith; his latest single, the rhythmic, indie-twangy “We Were Called the Foxx,” dropped in the fall. He’s also found at least a few opportunities to do some shopping along the way. Here are the goods that have brought delight to the record exec.

1. Mallalieus Windowpane Check Jacket

I bought a tweed coat covered in patches in Paris about 20 years ago. It was way beyond my means at the time, designed by the retired team La Renommée. I feel very gentlemanish and “tweedy” the minute I put it on. This jacket captures the same spirit. $495, simons.ca

2. Fender Telecaster Guitar

I bought my Telecaster off the infamous Vancouver music critic Alex Varty about 35 years ago, and set it up with an extra pick up to mirror the legendary Captain Beefheart’s own Telecaster. I rocked many a night at the Railway Club with this beauty, and have written many a ditty with it. $940, long-mcquade.com

3. Caran d’Ache Geneve 849 Paul Smith Pen

I write everything at home with this lovely, stylish Paul Smith pen. Somehow it’s never run out of ink. Is there a patron saint of pens hidden inside, perhaps? $75, shop.vanspecial.com

4. Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryū Suzuki

A book filled with invaluable wisdom. It doesn’t mean I don’t flail or get lost, but this book leads me back to where I just may see a path out of my own wilderness.  $26, indigo.ca

5. Andalou Hyaluronic and DMAE Lift and Firm Cream

Well, I’m not asked if I want the senior rate when I go to the community gym yet (even though I’m just about at that age). I don’t know if this aging cream has anything to do with it, but maybe. $33, realcanadiansuperstore.ca

6. Asics Skyhand OG Shoes

These are known as Onitsuka Tigers in Japan, and they’re my go-to runners. They’re a little costly, but they’re the most comfortable runners ever. They’ll also last a century and look cool to boot (or to shoe). $130, gravitypope.com

7. Lorna Shapiro Quilt

I won a beautiful quilt designed by Lorna Shapiro at a silent auction that I still love. I am awestruck by the hours and hours she would have put into making this exquisite quilt, only to donate it to a cause she really believes in. $795,  quiltersdreamfabrics.com

8. Wendelbo Kite Three-Seater Sofa

There’s fantastic furniture at Fullhouse, especially for small spaces, and I’ve spent many a night on my small sofa scrunching my brain cells on one thing or another. This model is the full-size version of the love seat I have at home. $8,390, fullhousemodern.com