B'day gifts for a boy turning 13?

This is for my own kid. I know what he wants: every expensive computer and electronic device under the sun.

But you know, friends and family ask for suggestions and they can't all spring for high-end gaming computers and iPhones.

I'm open to all suggestions, big and small, to further a young man's growth...and playful sensibilities.

(Truth be told, I'm thinking money is good to foster his self determination and independence. Amirite?)

FWIW my nephew is similar but a couple years younger. Exceptionally bright; scarily bright. One of those kids who'll be doing a PhD by age 19.... He asked me for a capo for his guitar for his birthday this month.

At 13 boys are hanging out with friends and grabbing food after school. How about a gift certificate to a local Chipolte, Stone Cold Creamery or Subway. I send something like this every few months to my nephew who's away at boarding school and he really appreciates it  

Barring knowledge of any of the boy's specific interests, we and others have done this for bday gifts and it seems relatively well-received.

Some great ides so far.

And what about bigger gifts, like from family members who want to offer something of significance, seeing this as something of a transcendental year.