Timeless & Current Classic American for Adults Who Cherish the Warmth of Craftsmanship | SHINOLA
SHINOLA
No to Mass Production, Mass Consumption!
Crafted by Those Who Live Well
Accessories to Elevate Your Everyday (1)
On October 4, 2017, a women's store for the American design brand SHINOLA, originating from Detroit, opened on the 4th floor of Isetan Shinjuku Main Building. This is the second SHINOLA store to open within Isetan Shinjuku, following the opening of the first domestic SHINOLA directly managed store on the 7th floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building in May of this year. What is the reason Isetan, which has its antennae tuned to the world, is focusing on this emerging brand, only six years old?
Text by KOIZUMI Yoko
Adding a Touch of Handmade Warmth to Every Item
Founded in 2011 in Detroit, Michigan, SHINOLA is built on the concept of "providing durable, long-lasting products." The brand has established its reputation by creating numerous products backed by solid design expertise and traditional craftsmanship.
With a design based on classical details and a refined touch, these pieces offer a smart and clean impression.
The Runwell¥90,000 (excluding tax).
"The era of disposables is over."
Here, there are skilled and diligent individuals, much like the engineers of the automotive industry that once formed the core of the city. SHINOLA aims to leverage their skills to create products that are high-quality and can be cherished for a long time. They decided to make uncompromising industrial products that retain their value even when mass-produced.
Daniel Cordua, the company's Creative Director, states, "SHINOLA promises our customers 'to be thoughtful in everything.'" This means creating products that are high in quality, possess a texture that ages beautifully, and are not designed for fleeting trends. This is a value that American products once embodied.
"Currently, fast fashion is booming globally, and we see SHINOLA as its antithesis. Just as consumers with a heightened awareness are distancing themselves from fast food, we believe more people will start to approach fast fashion with a similar consciousness."
It is common knowledge that fast food is high in calories but low in nutrients. If good food leads to living well, then high-quality products, through daily use, can also nurture the user's sensibilities, nourish the soul, and lead to a life well-lived.
Behind mass production and mass consumption, issues like labor exploitation also come into view. We aspire to create products and a market that not only satisfy consumers but also bring smiles to the makers, rather than a market driven by cost-cutting and exhaustion.—.
SHINOLA's stance has been embraced across America.
When the first directly managed store opened in its home base of Detroit, many people resonated with SHINOLA's philosophy. Now, it has expanded to 25 stores nationwide, including locations in New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
Furthermore, SHINOLA products are now available at major department stores worldwide, including Isetan Shinjuku in Japan, as well as in London and Paris.
Page02.Know the Maker, Cherish the Product
SHINOLA
No to Mass Production, Mass Consumption!
Crafted by Those Who Live Well
Accessories to Elevate Your Everyday (2)
Know the Maker, Cherish the Product
SHINOLA began by leveraging Detroit's craftsmanship and workforce, making a significant shift from the conventional focus on productivity over quality. Initially starting with a few people making watches, the company gradually expanded its product line to include leather goods, journals, bicycles, and audio equipment, growing to employ 650 people.
Even at this scale, Cordua proudly states that the fundamental principle of "thoughtful manufacturing" remains unwavering.
Holding a SHINOLA product, one can feel the care taken in its creation. The maker's face comes into view beyond the product. This, in turn, inspires a desire to cherish and use the product.
It allows for a meaningful exchange, a connection through the product.
While many American brands now produce overseas, SHINOLA primarily manufactures domestically, centered in Detroit. Parts are sourced from the best suppliers, both domestically and internationally, but the manufacturing itself takes place in America. In this sense, SHINOLA is a rare entity that can proudly claim the title of an American brand.
Watches were the first items offered since the brand's inception, with movements provided by the Swiss company RONDA. A typical manufacturer might simply purchase the movements. However, SHINOLA learned the manufacturing process from RONDA and assembles the movements in-house. For SHINOLA, RONDA is a business partner.
"Our goal is to establish the excellent manufacturing techniques of global experts within America. Mastering watchmaking allows us to perform repairs and pass on the acquired skills to the next generation."

The Muldowney
A model named after Shirley Muldowney, a prominent female drag racing driver in the '70s. Quartz. Stainless steel case (24 mm x 32mm). Price: ¥120,000 (excluding tax).

The Runwell
The case features a pink gold PVD coating, harmonizing beautifully with Japanese women's skin tones. Quartz. Mother-of-pearl dial. Case diameter 28mm. Leather strap. Price: ¥90,000 (excluding tax).

The Cass
Characterized by its square case and lug design. The 28mm x 27mm size fits snugly on the wrist, making it perfect for Japanese women. Quartz. Leather strap. Price: ¥105,000 (excluding tax).

Canfield Crossbody
Made from luxurious latigo leather, which gains character with use. An elegant mini bag with a rounded top line. Available in 3 colors. Price: ¥59,000 (excluding tax).

Mini Drawstring
A utility bag with a distinctive braided leather drawstring. The strap length can be adjusted, allowing it to be worn as a shoulder bag or crossbody. Available in 3 colors. Price: ¥59,000 (excluding tax).

Small Relaxed Hobo
A tote bag made with signature leather. Features an internal pocket and a detachable keychain. The 22-inch shoulder strap is adjustable. Available in 3 colors. Price: ¥89,000 (excluding tax).
Journal Collection
Features Smith's thread-sewn binding, designed to lie flat when opened. The hard cover can be embossed. Hard Linen (13cm x 21cm): ¥3,800 (excluding tax).
From its inception, SHINOLA has aimed to create products that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of gender. However, the store opening in October at Isetan Shinjuku Main Building's 4th floor will focus on women's items. The core of this lineup consists of watches, leather goods, and journals.
"Our product designs aim to evoke a sense of good old America. However, this is not about seeking vintage or heritage for its own sake, but rather about creating something familiar, something that feels known and approachable, while still being modern."
SHINOLA watches come with a Limited Lifetime Guarantee. This exceptionally long warranty is a testament to their quality and a reflection of their approach to customer relationships.
SHINOLA also offers a unique Willard Watch Service. This service allows customers to freely combine watch cases and straps in-store, enabling them to create their own personalized style. Additionally, a complimentary embossing service is available for select leather goods and journal products (notebooks), allowing for initials or messages to be added. All these customization services are designed to encourage customers to "cherish their items for a long time."
"In today's era of fast fashion, conveying SHINOLA's philosophy is truly challenging."
Cordua spoke after a moment of thought, but his expression seemed filled with pride. Perhaps it is because he is convinced that these are the messages that must be conveyed, precisely because they are difficult to communicate.
Left: The "Willard Watch Service" available at the Isetan Shinjuku store. Purchase by freely combining watches and straps to create your own style. Top right and bottom right: Complimentary embossing service for leather goods and stationery. Customize with initials or messages.
Inquiries regarding the store: Isetan Shinjuku Tel. 03-3352-1111
Brand News
Tel. 03-3797-3674
https://www.shinola.com/jp















