Words: Charlie Thomas
America is famous for many things: muscle cars, Hollywood, burgers. Something that it’s not quite as known for though, yet is equally adept at producing, is watches.
While it may not boast the kind of heritage that the Swiss do, the US has silently been creating reliable, quality timepieces for well over a century. Today, American watchmakers are going as strong as they ever did, with new brands flourishing and old ones capitalising on their history.
A watch can say a lot about you, so here are the best American watch brands that will say just the right things.
Timex
Founded in 1854, Timex’s history is far more storied than many think. Based in Waterbury, Connecticut, it produced pocket watches that sold in droves throughout the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that the brand really took off.
It was a market leader in the affordable watch sector, pioneering cheap mechanical movements as well as being an early adopter of electronic timepieces. When the 1970s came around, one in three branded watches sold in America was a Timex.
Why buy a Timex watch?
Timex continues to produce affordable, well-made watches for men and women, proving extremely popular with those looking for quality and classic design at a price point accessible to all.
Shinola
Shinola was originally a brand that produced shoe polish from the beginning of the 20th century, but for whatever reason, it died out not long after. The name was rekindled in 2011, and now Shinola is a powerhouse, producing fine leather goods, bicycles and, of course, watches, all out of its Detroit factory.
The watches themselves are hand-assembled by Swiss-trained watchmakers in Motor City, most of whom are Detroit locals – it’s an impressive story, and one that has seen lots of deserved air time. The brand’s stock is only set to rise, and we can’t wait to see what it comes up with next.
Why buy a Shinola watch?
For their price, Shinola watches have outstanding quality – most come with stainless steel cases, while many feature titanium cases and sapphire crystal. Also, there’s the feel-good factor that by buying one, you’re playing a small part in helping Detroit’s economic recovery.
RGM
RGM, named after founder Roland G. Murphy, is one of the only American watch brands that truly rival its Swiss counterparts. The brand was founded in 1992, and now produces its own in-house movements that power watches based on stunning vintage designs, including pilots, chronographs and divers.
Located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, RGM makes its own watch parts, cases and movements all in the US, and with a production run of only around 500 pieces per year, they are as special as they come.
Why buy an RGM watch?
RGM has gained many admirers and repeat customers over the years for the fine craftsmanship that goes into its watches, which uses a perfect blend of traditional skills and cutting-edge technology.
Hamilton
While not strictly made and produced in the US (it combines American design with Swiss engineering), Hamilton is undoubtedly the most famous watch brand to come from there.
Also originating in Lancaster County, it has produced an endless amount of iconic timepieces, including none other than the Ventura, a piece famously worn and owned by Elvis Presley. Its aviation heritage is what’s most noted, though, and by the 1930s Hamilton was the official watch supplier to TWA, Eastern, United and Northwest Airlines.
Why buy a Hamilton watch?
Especially lauded as one of the top men’s watch brands out there, Hamilton is synonymous with quality, yet its prices remains affordable thanks in part to the outsourcing of its movements. Many watch lovers begin their collection with a Hamilton piece, which is a testament to their timeless designs, reliability and rock-solid construction.
Looking for the perfect timepiece for yourself? Here are the watches you should be investing in based on your age.
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