In short: Dad says "nothing" because he never spends money on himself, so give him what he would never buy: something he can use every day, with no big logo and a small story. Add a personal touch, like his name on the box or a number that means something to him. Order early, because personalised items can take a few extra days.
Why dad says "nothing"
Usually it is not true. He just does not spend money on himself. A nice sweater feels silly to him, so he wears the old one with the thin elbows for another ten years.
What works
He can use it every day. Dads rarely leave things in a drawer.
No big logo. Quiet pieces suit him better.
A small story. So he has something to say when someone asks where it is from.
Make it his
His name on the box, a handwritten note, or a number that means something to him, like his birthday. Small touches make it feel chosen.
Order early
Personalised items can take a few days longer. For Christmas, order in good time.
More ideas: The Gift Nobody Else Will Give Him.
A note on transparency: we make a cashmere sweater ourselves, limited to 25 numbered pieces. The ideas above work for any brand. Our sweater is one of many you can compare.