This year's Couture Show in Las Vegas was buzzing with innovation, design, and heritage—the kind of energy that makes you feel like you're standing at the crossroads of time and creativity.
I had the pleasure of attending my first Couture Show visit alongside my colleague, Thomas J. Sandrin, the founder of WatchDNA, and together, we explored a wide array of brands that are shaping today's horological landscape. And our first stop was Shinola.
A brand born in Detroit in 2011, Shinola stands as a modern-day torchbearer of American craftsmanship. With a mission to bring watchmaking back to the United States, they've steadily built more than watches—they've built a narrative. One grounded in quality, durability, and pride in doing things the right way.
Summer, in a Watch
As we stepped into the Shinola booth, two watches immediately jumped out at me. The first was the Canary Yellow Duck Sport—a vibrant timepiece that practically radiates sunshine. Between its bold canary dial, durable build, and sporty edge, it's a watch that doesn't whisper summer—it shouts it out loud. Whether you're by the water or just chasing warmth in the city, this watch brings the mood with it.
👉 Check out the Duck Sport Canary
A Musical Tribute in Midnight Blue
The second was more subtle but carried weight far beyond its dial. The J Dilla Runwell Chronograph isn't just a watch, it's a tribute. Honoring one of the most influential producers in hip-hop history, this timepiece merges Shinola's signature styling with a story that resonates with music lovers and cultural connoisseurs alike.
Though it's currently sold out on Shinola's website, its presence still speaks volumes. The engraved details, the midnight blue dial, the connection to J Dilla's legacy; this is a piece that hits all the right notes for fans who want to carry a bit of the music with them.
👉 Explore the J Dilla Runwell Chronograph
The Lume Monster
And then there was the Forged Carbon Monster. The name doesn't exaggerate. This watch impressed us not just with its aggressive, rugged styling but with an extraordinary luminescence that lives up to the "monster" name. It's one of those pieces you don't forget after seeing it in the dark — a great example of functional flair executed with intention.
A Conversation to Remember
Beyond the watches, we also had the opportunity to speak with the team at Shinola. From their Detroit-based operations to collaborations that support meaningful stories, Shinola has carved out a loyal niche of enthusiasts who admire not only their style but also their substance.
In a market filled with homage and repetition, Shinola stands out by embracing identity. The past might inspire their designs, but they are undeniably grounded in the present, crafted with a purpose, and built to last. And after seeing their collection in Vegas, it's easy to understand why they continue to resonate.
Time is more than seconds ticking away. It is a catalyst for transformation. Stay tuned for more highlights from the Couture Show, coming soon to WatchDNA.
