Though it came as something of a shock to the on-line gift-catalog industry, newcomer, High Roller Toys has been rated #1 for Best Unique and Unusual Gifts for Father’s Day 2009–this, by the independent consumer product rating service, GiftGeek.

“It’s only their first year of operation, and already they have surpassed all of the established names when it comes to the totality of their selection of specialty gifts, and collectibles,” said Alan Forray of GiftGeek.  “Lots of companies present themselves as sellers of ‘Unique Gifts,” but there is an essential difference between a gift that is ‘rare’ or ‘uncommon’ and one that is handcrafted, custom-made, and truly one-of-a-kind.”

When asked what difficulties his company had to surmount to get where they are today, High Roller Toys founder, Brian Gidda, remarked, “There have been many difficulties to overcome.  As strange as it sounds, progress really doesn’t begin to happen until difficulties arise.  It’s the ability to successfully overcome difficulties that puts the start-up on the road to success… It (the site) that is now High Roller Toys began with my interest in mail order catalogs several years ago.  I was always fascinated by their offerings.  I suppose for me it’s a dream come true to be able to offer products through HRT.   The Internet is really the new mail order.”

With hand-painted oil portraits done from your favorite pictures, bronze castings of marine life that are turned into the most stunning end-tables, and gemstone desk globes, crafted from colorful minerals, including gold and silver, from all over the world, High Roller Toys truly is unique for a holiday that is typically represented by gifts of garish ties, and electric foot-warmers.

“I think people are getting a little tired of gnomes with grass growing out of their heads,” said GiftGeek’s Forray.  “And if the best you can do for Dad this year is to clap your hands to turn the light on, there are plenty of other gifts sites to choose from. 

For more information go to highrollertoys.com.

GiftGeek Quality Rating – Five Stars