Shinola's Latest Models Reviewed (2024) by NanaDC

Written by – Updated on March 7, 2024

Shinola Detroit is the cool, trend-setting lifestyle brand that everyone is talking about! Founded in 2011 by CEO Tom Kartsotis, this up-and-coming brand is known for its high-end watches made with the best parts from around the world.

Partnering with Taiwan-based dial maker, BAT Ltd., and Swiss-based quartz movement producer Ronda AG, these timepieces are created to compete with the finest Swiss watches. So, are they any good? Let's take a closer look and find out.

This sleek and stylish collection features some of the most impressive craftsmanship and design, making them stand out from the rest. On top of that, Shinola's watches are ultra durable, perfect for everyday wear. So, if you're looking for a luxurious and reliable timepiece, Shinola is definitely worth considering.

Shinola Runwell Automatic 45mm: Best Overall

The Shinola Runwell Automatic 45mm watch is a timeless classic that looks great on all occasions. It is a luxurious, yet affordable watch that has been crafted with the finest materials, including a genuine leather bracelet and a quartz movement [R]. The design of the watch is sleek and modern, and features Roman numerals, a date window, and an exhibition plaque.

The crystal is scratch-resistant and has a double curved design for maximum visibility in dim lit areas. The crown and case are made from stainless steel and the WR is 200. The lug width is 22mm and the thickness of the case is 13mm. The clasp is a buckle style and the hands are made from Super-Luminova.

The watch is powered by a Sellita SW200 movement and features an argonite high accuracy quartz timepiece. It is assembled with quality components and jewels and is designed to reduce friction and insure accurate timekeeping. The watch is water-resistant up to 100m and comes with a two-year warranty. The watch also includes a signature series plaque which can be customized with a personal message.

The Shinola Runwell Automatic 45mm watch is a great choice for those looking for a classy and casual watch. It is a great addition to any wardrobe and is sure to turn heads. The leather strap is comfortable and the watch is easy to replace or customize with different straps. The watch is available in silver or blue and is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Shinola is a Detroit-based company that was founded in 2011 in order to help revive the city after the recession and bankruptcy of many manufacturing companies. The company has since expanded its product selection to include bicycles and various other products, and the Shinola Runwell Automatic 45mm watch has become one of their signature pieces. The watch has even been worn by UK Prime Minister David Cameron and various other politicians, and has been presented with the Presidential Seal of Approval.

Overall, the Shinola Runwell Automatic 45mm watch is a great choice for those looking for a timeless and classic watch. The watch parts are amazingly designed [R]. The attention to detail and quality components make this watch stand out from the rest, and the black blizzard dial [R] is sure to make a statement. The watch is highly desirable and sure to be a desirable piece for years to come. The only downside is the price - but you get what you pay for, and the added value of being able to customize the plaque is worth every penny.

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • Swiss automatic movement
  • 5 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • A bit expensive

Shinola Canfield Chrono 43mm: Best Value

I’m a firm believer that—when it comes to wristwatches—you get what you pay for. That’s why I was moved to purchase the Shinola Canfield Chrono 43mm, an American-crafted watch with a timeless look and luxurious feel. This watch has all the bells and whistles that my fifth favorite watch company had to offer, and more.

Featuring a Japanese Quartz movement, the Canfield Chrono 43mm features a sapphire crystal, coin edge bezel, and pumpkin crown—it was love at first sight. The Midnight dial is finished in sunray with a refined minute track; diamond-cut hands add a level of sophistication that really can’t be overlooked. The leather strap is Dark Cognac and removable (for my desired customizable effect) with top loaded case construction you won’t find in many watches this affordable. It also has a date window and is blissfully smooth to the touch.

But man, this Shinola went above and beyond my expectations. Not only does it have a sleek modern twist to a classic watch with its larger face for a clearer view, but it also has applied Arabic numerals and beautiful patina to give it character—no two watches are alike! To add to its individuality, the leather is cut and sewn by hand (which will age nicely over time). Also worth noting is the quartz movement, which is both more affordable than an automatic yet still reliable. Not to mention the Runwell Automatic with Swiss automatic movement option for those who want something even more stylishly functional!

The second dimension deserving special mention here is the crystal: it’s diamond, meaning it possesses a hardness that makes it incredibly durable (not to mention scratches can be buffed out easily). Neatly framed in this case, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the incredible work of Shinola’s engineers and craftspeople on the details that could easily be overlooked because they don’t show like metal or detailing; yet they are there, adding an undeniable level of quality that mustn’t be celebrated enough.

So how did I find Shinola? Well I emailed them with some simple questions and they responded really quickly (in true timely manner!), much to my pleasure. Not only did they address all my concerns but followed up to make sure everything was to my liking. An incredible customer experience thus far!

All in all, I think both Shinola's Canfield Chrono 43mm Model Number Part Number Item Shape Case diameter Case Thickness Band width Water resistant depth is one of their classics with a modern twist; I love it! It looks great, wears great and feels great too. Honestly I couldn't be happier with my chronograph [R] purchase!

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • Chronograph functions
  • 5 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • Not a statement watch

Shinola Detrola 43mm: Best Budget Pick

The Shinola Detrola Watch is the perfect accessory for any man looking for a timeless and versatile statement piece. With a number of different colorways and straps to choose from, you'll be sure to find the perfect fit.

The silicone strap is comfortable and perfect for everyday wear, while the quick release feature makes it easy to switch up your look for more formal occasions.

Quick Verdict: Upgrade your wrist game with the Shinola Detrola Watch. Timeless design, reliable performance, and affordable price make it a must-have accessory.

The dial is a standout feature of this watch. Featuring numerals and hour markers, the dial also has a Shinola logo applied to it in a subtle painting and embossing technique. It also comes with a date window and a crown for quick time adjustments. The luminous hands offer a great contrast to the dial, making the watch easy to read even in the heat and humidity of New York City, where Shinola is based.

The size of the Detrola comes in 43mm, 40mm, and 41mm to suit your style. The 43mm size is perfect for a college student looking to make a statement piece, while the 40mm size is great for a more respectable look. The 41mm size has a lightning bolt on the case, paying homage to Shinola’s Detroit roots, and is a great option for those who want a simple timekeeping experience.

The Detrola offers a high-end performance with reliable timekeeping. It also has a great price point for those who are looking for a fashionable timepiece without breaking the bank. This watch is perfect for those who want a timeless and versatile accessory, as it looks great with both casual and formalwear.

Overall, the Shinola Detrola Watch is a great option for any man looking for a simple timekeeping experience with a fashionable touch. The size options and colorways make it a great choice for any style. The craftsmanship is top notch, and the quartz and mechanical watches offer reliable performance. The price point is also respectable and makes this watch a great option for those who want to make a statement piece. All in all, the Shinola Detrola is a dope watch that any dude worth his salt should consider adding to his collection.

Benefits

  • 5 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options
  • Affordable

Drawbacks

  • Mineral crystal finish may be more prone to scratches
  • 3-year limited warranty

Shinola Runwell 41mm

The Shinola Runwell 41mm is the perfect watch for any man looking to add a bit of American quality and heritage to his style. Detroit-based Shinola has been making watches since 2011, and the Runwell is their flagship watch.

The presentation is top-notch—It comes in a stylish black box with a leather pouch and a metal Shinola plaque that has the watch's unique serial number. Inside, the watch is nestled in a Styrofoam bed and it looks amazing

The case is made of thick, heavy stainless steel and it's hand-stitched with Horween leather. The lugs, buckle and crown are all made of brass and the crown is stamped with the Shinola arrow logo. The dial is a beauty to behold—it's textured with metal relief and beveled wood inset. The hands, index markers, and numerals are all lumed and the subdial has an orange lightening bolt.

The movement is the heart of the watch—it's Shinola's revolutionary Argonite 715 quartz movement, and it's manufactured in Switzerland with over 400 parts. It's precise and accurate, and rated for a 5-year battery life. The watch comes with a warranty card and a manual, and the backside of the case is stamped with the Shinola logo.

The Runwell 41mm is a great watch, but it's not without its minor drawbacks. It's a bit thick and heavy, so it might not be the best choice for a smaller wrist. The leather band, while stylish, isn't as comfortable as some of Shinola's other offerings. And if you're looking for bargains, this isn't the watch for you—It's a high-price, high-end watch.

All in all, the Shinola Runwell 41mm is an awesome watch. It looks great, runs like a champ, and comes with all the accoutrements you'd expect from a luxury watch. Whether you're taking a business trip to Lima or a fun trip to Buenos Aires, The Runwell will help you look your best. If you're looking for a watch that will make a statement, you can't go wrong with the Runwell. Get yours today—you won't regret it, bro.

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • 5 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • Lacks a date window
  • Some users feel the price point is quite high for a quartz movement

Shinola Monster Automatic 43mm

The Shinola Monster Automatic 43mm is a beast of a dive watch [R], making it a great choice for those who want something a bit more rugged and sporty. This watch is a fashion accessory that is sure to turn heads, with its sleek and stylish design. The watch is crafted from stainless steel, making it highly durable and resistant to corrosion.

The watch also features a unidirectional bezel [R], making it perfect for diving with a depth rating of 1000 feet. The bezel is also coated with an anti-reflective coating, allowing for great visibility even underwater.

The watch features a Swiss SW200-1 Automatic Movement with 26 Jewels, and a Super-LumiNova Index Markers [R]. This means that the watch will keep time accurately and you won't have to worry about it losing time while you're in the depths of the ocean. The watch also features a single domed sapphire crystal, making it scratch resistant and ensuring that you'll have a clear view of the time.

In addition to being a great watch for diving, the Shinola Monster Automatic 43mm is also a great fashion accessory. It comes with a stainless steel bracelet, as well as a black rubber dive strap, and a black tin cloth strap. These straps are interchangeable and can be changed up depending on your mood. The watch also comes with a Princeton Tech Diver's Flashlight, and a map of Lake Erie, making it perfect for those who love to explore.

The Shinola Monster Automatic 43mm is also a great investment. It retails for $2,250, and there is a waitlist for those who want to get their hands on one of these monsters. It's also available on the resale marketplace StockX, so you can get a great deal if you're patient. With only 500 units made, it's a great item to add to your collection.

Overall, the Shinola Monster Automatic 43mm is an amazing watch. It's rugged and sporty feel, combined with its superior craftsmanship make it a great choice for those who want something that looks and works great. Plus, with its limited edition status and great resale value, it's a great investment as well. If you're looking for a watch that is sure to turn heads and make you stand out from the crowd, then this is the one for you.

NanaDC Badass Rating: 2/5

  • The watch is crafted with 316l stainless steel, a sapphire crystal, and a Salida SW 200 movement that provides up to 38 hours of power reserve.

NanaDC Suave Rating: 3/5

  • The bracelet's finishing details match the watch's aesthetic perfectly, with brushed lugs and polished sides that extend to the bracelet. It's a simple but often overlooked feature that truly enhances the overall look of the watch.
  • The watch's handset design is reminiscent of the Equus line, but it works seamlessly with the overall dial design to create a unique and appealing look.

Benefits

  • Single domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
  • Swiss automatic movement
  • 30 ATM water resistance
  • Very functional
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • Expensive

Shinola Runwell Sport Chrono 48mm

The Shinola Runwell Sport Chrono 48mm is a high-end sport watch with a lot of features to keep you ticking. It features a Quartz Movement, a stainless steel case, a case diameter of 48mm, a case thickness of 12.5mm, and a band width of 22mm.

It also has a calendar, water resistant depth of 20 ATM, and SuperLumi-Nova hands and indices to make sure you can read the time in any light.

The dial of the Shinola Runwell is sleek and modern, with sub-dials and stopwatch capabilities. The scratch resistant Sapphire Crystal and unidirectional turning bezel make this watch look ultra-luxurious. The three link bracelet with the tang buckle is made with a midnight blue sandblast sunray finish for a unique look. There's even a date aperture with applied numerals for a bit of extra dimension.

This is a sport watch that's as stylish as it is functional. It has a comfort fit and double domed titanium case to keep it light and comfortable on your wrist. The Orange Shinola Bolt clasp is a nice touch and adds a bit of manly flair.

I have to say, I'm really impressed with the Shinola Runwell Sport Chrono 48mm. It looks great and has a lot of features to keep you on time and looking good. Sure, there's a few minor negatives like the design options being a bit limited, but that's a small issue compared to how awesome this watch looks. I'd definitely recommend it if you're looking for an all-around killer look.

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • Solid titanium case
  • 20 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • The display can look a little messy
  • Some users feel the price point is quite high for a quartz movement

Shinola Birdy 34mm

The Shinola Birdy 34mm is an absolute stunner! From the pearl white dial with Arabic numerals to the iconic case back and the two-tone stainless steel bracelet, this watch is a surefire head-turner.

The rose gold-tone accents are the cherry on top, adding a touch of sophistication to the watch's overall look.

The quartz movement is powered by Argontie 775 and has luminous hands that help you tell time even in the dark. The double domed sapphire crystal is treated with PVD gold plating to make it super durable. Not to mention, it's water-resistant up to 5 ATM, so you don't have to worry about it getting damaged if you accidentally get it wet.

The push-down crown and the date window make setting the time super easy. Whether you're wearing it for a casual outing or a fancy night out, this watch will always be up for the job. Plus, it's lightweight and super comfortable on the wrist.

The only downside is that it's not suitable for swimming or any other water-related activities. But, considering the fact that it looks like a million bucks, it's definitely worth the purchase. All in all, the Shinola Birdy 34mm is a must-have watch for the modern woman. It's classy and timeless, and will never go out of style. So, go ahead and splurge on this amazing piece. You won't regret it, trust me!

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • PVD gold plating
  • 5 ATM water resistance
  • Many design options

Drawbacks

  • The small 34mm case size and thin 8mm strap may feel too delicate for some users

Shinola Vinton 38mm

The Shinola Detroit 38mm Vinton 3HD is a captivating casual style watch and the perfect choice for the man about town. It features a modern constant silhouette, with a matte midnight blue velvet dial and an engravable caseback.

The stainless steel bracelet is hand-assembled, with 43 components and a solid stainless steel case that’s polished for a vintage charm. The watch also features printed Arabic numerals, a minute track, and a calendar aperture at the 3 o’clock marker. Super-LumiNova hands and silver tones give the watch a polished feel.

The Vinton 3HD [R] is equipped with the Argonite 715 high-accuracy quartz movement and is also water resistant at 5 ATM. The removable steel case has a brushed and polished stainless steel finish, with a fold-over buckle and micro-adjustment for a perfect fit. The watch also features a pumpkin crown, double-domed sapphire crystal, and personalization for engraving.

The 38mm size makes this watch a great fit for both casual and dress occasions. It’s a great choice for the man who wants to make a statement, but still keep it simple. The Runwell is the perfect watch for that special someone, and the removable watch strap gives the wearer options to mix and match.

The Shinola Detroit Vinton 3HD is an impressive watch, but there are a few minor drawbacks. The engraving option is limited to only a few characters, and the watch is not as durable as some of the higher-end models. But overall, this watch is a winner – it’s stylish, it’s sophisticated, and it’s got that special something. If you’re lookin’ to take your style game to the next level, the Vinton 3HD from Shinola will do the trick.

Benefits

  • Double domed sapphire crystal finish
  • 5 ATM water resistance

Drawbacks

  • Small case size

Shinola Guardian 41.5mm

The Shinola Guardian 41.5mm is the epitome of Detroit [R] vintage design. With clean Arabic numerals, a date window, and quartz watches, this watch is reliable, durable, and affordable.

With a single curve sapphire crystal, 5ATM water resistance, and a cushion shaped stainless steel case, this watch is a must-have.

The grey dial and luminescent hour and minute hands make it easy to tell the time and date at a glance. The date indicator at the 6 o’clock position makes telling the date a breeze. The Argonite 705.3 quartz movement keeps you on time for any business meeting or tee time. The tan leather strap makes it comfortable and securely fastened to your wrist.

The Shinola Guardian 41.5mm is a handsome and strong watch. With a 41.5mm case and Arabic numerals, this watch stands out. The sandblasted gunmetal PVD case and matte cool gray velvet dial set this watch apart. The premium leather strap in cattail brown is the perfect finishing touch.

This watch is perfect for any occasion. The classic design and iconic building at 500 Griswold Street in Detroit make this watch an instant classic. With different watch band colors, materials, case sizes, shapes, displays, movements, and styles, there is a Shinola Guardian 41.5mm to fit any wrist. The dial color and features can be tailored to whatever your style is.

The Shinola Guardian 41.5mm has all the qualities you want in a watch. With its diameter, watch type, strap, industrial excellence, creativity and continuous innovation, this watch is sure to turn heads. It’s great for any occasion, whether you’re meeting up for drinks or having a romantic dinner.

The only downside to this watch is that it isn’t shock proof, so you gotta be careful not to bang it up too much. Other than that, this watch is top-notch. It’s the perfect blend of quality, readability and easy readability.

If you’re in the market for a watch, there’s no better option than the Shinola Guardian 41.5mm. Not only is it stylish, but it’s also reliable and affordable. It’s the perfect watch for any occasion, so you can take it with you anywhere. Get the Shinola Guardian 41.5mm, and you won’t be disappointed.

Benefits

  • Single curve sapphire crystal finish
  • 5 ATM water resistance

Drawbacks

  • Its design can feel a little dated

Shinola Duck 42mm

The Shinola Duck 42mm is a versatile and functional watch that looks good and is built to last. It's the perfect unpackaged combo of style, durability, and affordability.

With its depth rating of 20 ATM, it's a great choice for any type of activity, whether it's day or night.

The 42mm case is made of stainless steel and has a flat sapphire crystal, giving it a slim profile that won't get in the way of shirt cuffs. The Argonite 713 quartz movement ensures accuracy and reliability, and the unidirectional bezel gives you the ability to transition from daytime activities to nighttime activities without having to worry about losing track of time.

The Monster Automatic comes with a rubber strap or steel bracelet, so you can customize your look to match whatever you're wearing. The dial features numerals, indices, and handset with luminous paint, giving it a light catcher curve that's anything but boring. And with its bezel pip and chapter ring, you'll never miss a single hue.

The Shinola Duck 42mm is an incredibly versatile watch that can go anywhere and do anything. It's the perfect companion for any professional or dressy occasion. It's also got a unique rubber ducky case finish that adds a little something extra. With its customizable strap/bracelet and colors available, you're sure to find the perfect one for you.

The only minor negative attributes I've found is that the watch is a bit too slim to be super comfortable and the lume doesn't last as long as I'd like. But, overall it's still an awesome watch and I'm sure you won't regret picking one up. Whether you're looking for a watch to get you through the workweek, or one that'll make you look good on the weekends, the Shinola Duck 42mm is a great choice. Trust me, it'll be the most bad-ass duck you'll ever lay eyes on.

Benefits

  • Flat sapphire crystal finish
  • 20 ATM water resistance
  • Very functional

Drawbacks

  • Not suitable for diving

The Story Behind the Shinola Brand

The man behind this ambitious venture is Tom Kartsotis, CEO of Bedrock Manufacturing Co. He wanted to make an impact on the high-end watch industry, usually dominated by Swiss brands, and thus Shinola was born.

The watches are designed and assembled in Detroit, USA. Though the parts are imported from Asia and Switzerland, the quality is still top-notch. That said, some critics have argued that the price tag doesn't match the quality of the mechanical pieces.

Kartsotis realized he needed to tell a compelling story about Shinola to really make an impact, and he found it by connecting the brand with Detroit and its people. From the workforce to the General Motors facility, the Shinola brand was able to tap into an eager consumer market.

The result? An American-made watch that is both durable and accurate, plus a unique backstory to boot. But don't be fooled by the marketing - these watches aren't perfect, and they do have their flaws.

Is Shinola a Luxury Brand?

Shinola: the ultimate luxury watch brand. It's got exclusive designs, superior craftsmanship and materials, and a heritage that dates back decades. But don't let the sophistication fool you - these are tough, reliable watches that won't let you down. Sure, the prices may be a bit steep, but you get what you pay for! So if you're looking for a watch that stands out from the crowd and won't let you down, Shinola is your best bet.

Do Shinola Watches Hold Value?

Shinola watches are definitely a stylish accessory - no doubt about that! But if you're looking for a timepiece that will hold its value over the years, you may want to look elsewhere.

Yes, they look great and are reasonably priced, but the resale market is rather bleak. You're likely to get a better return on investment from more traditional luxury watch brands.

Let's face it, if you're considering a Shinola watch, you're probably not looking at Rolex, Omega, or Tissot.

And that's understandable - these more established brands come with hefty price tags. But if you're looking for an investment piece, you're better off leaving Shinola in the dust.

Don't get us wrong, a Shinola watch is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern look without breaking the bank. Just don't expect it to maintain its value over time.

Where Can You Buy Shinola Watches?

Shinola watches are the manly way to keep time! These classic, rugged watches are perfect for any occasion. From dressing up to dressing down, they give you the perfect look. Plus, they come with a lifetime guarantee, so you know they're built to last.

But don't let their good looks fool you - these watches can take a beating. They've been tested in the harshest conditions, and they come through in flying colors.

You can get your hands on a Shinola watch from their website or their physical stores all over America. Alternatively, you can find them on Amazon, eBay, or other e-commerce sites. Just make sure to check for authenticity before you buy!

Shinola watches don't come without some downsides, though. They're not the cheapest watches on the market, and they've been known to be a bit bulky in the past. But with their quality and style, they might just be worth the splurge.

Shinola Watch Services and Warranty Policy

Shinola watches are top of the line and come with a lifetime guarantee for metal watches, and a three year guarantee for resin watches. Any defects (apart from the battery, strap, and buckle) will be repaired for free. If it can't be fixed, then you'll get a new one.

But you still need to get your watch serviced every couple of years to make sure it's running like a dream. That's not always convenient, but it's essential for keeping your timepiece in tip-top shape.

Plus, Shinola watches are designed with a manly aesthetic in mind. And let's face it, they're not exactly pocket change. You don't want to be throwing your money away on a watch that won't last long.

So, if you're after a watch that's reliable and built to last, Shinola's the way to go.

A Brief Summary

Shinola is a brand that's deeply ingrained in the Detroit and American culture. Its product design, marketing and overall aesthetic all reflect this, giving it a unique and universal charm.

For those looking to get into the brand at an affordable price, you can't go wrong with the Detrola. It's bold and playful, and perfect for everyday wear.

If you're looking for something with a bit more substance, the Canfield Chrono is an excellent choice; it's a subtle masterpiece in elegance.

But if you want the absolute best that Shinola has to offer, you need the Runwell Automatic. It's the epitome of Swiss quality, and the classic timelessness of the Shinola Detroit brand.

Just be warned, it ain't cheap! But if you're willing to splurge, you won't be disappointed.

Wrap up

Shinola is one of the most interesting watch brands of our time. It's a great option for those who are after a bit of luxury without the ridiculous price tag. It has a cool, masculine design, is supremely functional and won't break the bank.

The quality is top-notch, but it's not quite up there with the most prestigious brands. That said, it's still a great value for the price. Plus, it has a few unique features that set it apart from the competition.

The downside is that Shinola isn't always the most reliable. You'll sometimes find yourself with a dud, which can be a bit of a bummer. But, on the whole, it's a solid watch brand with plenty of options to choose from.

For affordable, luxurious watches, Shinola certainly fits the bill. It won't let you down.

Links, prices, and images were pulled from the Amazon API. Last updated on 2023-05-11.