A Watch to Watch Special- Every now and then it is important to look at newly released watches that have the potential to shakeup the industry. The Shinola Runwell Sport fits the mold. Shinola is a Detroit-based manufacturer of leather goods, watches, and most famously shoe polish.
Recently rebranded in 2011, Shinola has taken the watch world by storm. Traditional dress-casual design aesthetics, colorful dial options, and multiple bracelet offerings make this the brand the perfect fit for the young professional. The brand has made a name for itself through an unyielding commitment to craftsmanship, service, and the "Made in Detroit" stamp that adorns every watch. To date, Shinola has amassed a substantial number of brand loyalists who flock to flagship store locations in Detroit and Tribeca. I had the privilege of attending the grand opening of the flagship store in Tribeca a few years ago. Simply put, the brand does things differently-- a coffee-shop inside the Tribeca location says it all. Although there is tons to say about the brand, the focus of this post is the recent release of a new collection- the Runwell Sport.
Shinola Runwell Sport 42mm
The Runwell Sport is a hybrid design somewhere between the keystone Runwelll model and a dive watch. A rotating bezel as well as various strap options provide a well-needed entry-point into the the "Sports Watch" market. Introduced in three sizes--48mm, 42mm, 36mm, the Runwell Sport offers an option for everyone. Although currently, the only size with the chronograph feature is the 48mm option, Shinola has an uncanny knack for predicting consumer preferences. I am sure other size, dial, and strap variations are in the pipeline.
Attractive styling is characteristic of the brand. Priced anywhere from $625-$1,025, the Runwell Sport faces a lot of competition in that price range. Shinola will have to rely on strong marketing efforts to make this collection stand out from the rest. Needless to say, the success of the Runwell sport will be great to follow. I always enjoy taking a closer look at companies who produce affordable timepieces the right way. Props to Shinola.
Check out how Shinola makes their watches- http://vimeo.com/72087677