Shinola Mooncraft Monster Chrono

In the heart of Detroit, amidst the echoes of a bygone era of American manufacturing prowess, a renaissance is taking place. A phoenix rising from the ashes, Shinola, has emerged as a beacon of hope, rekindling the spirit of craftsmanship and innovation that once defined the Motor City. Their latest creation, the Mooncraft Monster Chrono 43mm, isn't just a timepiece; it's a mechanical symphony that harmonizes history, technology, and artistry in an ode to human achievement.



Shinola's journey is a testament to the resilience of the American spirit. Established in 2011, the company set out on a mission to revive the art of manufacturing in Detroit. They meticulously crafted watches, bicycles, leather goods, and journals, breathing new life into the city's industrial legacy. Each product was a testament to their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and creating jobs in a city yearning for rejuvenation. The Mooncraft Monster Chrono is the latest chapter in this inspiring narrative, a testament to Shinola's unwavering dedication to its roots and its relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Monster collection, a pillar of Shinola's watchmaking portfolio, is known for its bold design and robust construction. The Mooncraft Monster Chrono, however, transcends its predecessors, marking a significant milestone as Shinola's first-ever manual wind chronograph. Its inspiration is drawn from the Apollo Space Missions, a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of the unknown. Yet, the Mooncraft Monster Chrono goes beyond merely celebrating these historic missions; it pays homage to Detroit's unsung role in the space race.



The watch's design is a harmonious blend of form and function. The 43mm titanium case, with its brushed finish, exudes a rugged yet refined aesthetic. The blue aluminum bezel insert, reminiscent of the vast expanse of space, adds a touch of vibrancy to the watch's overall appearance. The exhibition case back, a window into the watch's mechanical soul, reveals the intricate workings of the SW510 M b Chronograph movement. This manual wind chronograph movement, a testament to the art of watchmaking, beats at the heart of the Mooncraft Monster Chrono, driving its timekeeping and chronograph functions with precision and reliability.

The dial, a canvas of celestial beauty, is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. The matte velvet sea blue hue evokes the mysteries of the cosmos, while the cream and red accents, inspired by the Apollo missions, add a touch of vintage charm. The mission number and date, prominently displayed on the dial, serve as a constant reminder of humanity's giant leap into the unknown.



Limited to a mere 500 pieces, the Mooncraft Monster Chrono 43mm is more than just a watch; it's a piece of history, a symbol of American ingenuity, and a tribute to the 400,000 individuals who made the Apollo missions possible. It's a testament to Shinola's unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation.

The blue aluminum bezel insert, a nod to the vastness of space, frames the dial with a vibrant splash of color. Its unidirectional rotation, a feature often found in dive watches, allows for tracking elapsed time, adding a practical dimension to its aesthetic appeal. The knurled edges of the bezel provide excellent grip, ensuring ease of operation even with gloved hands.

One of the most captivating features of the Mooncraft Monster Chrono is its manual wind chronograph movement, the Sellita SW510 M b. This caliber is renowned for its robustness, reliability, and precision, making it a fitting choice for a watch inspired by the technological achievements of the Apollo missions. The manual winding mechanism adds a layer of interaction, allowing the wearer to connect with the watch on a deeper level, feeling the mechanical heart beating beneath their fingertips.



The matte velvet sea blue dial is a true masterpiece, capturing the essence of the cosmos with its deep, rich hue. The cream and red accents, inspired by the Apollo mission insignia, inject a touch of vintage charm and playfulness. The chronograph sub-dials, arranged in a tri-compax layout, provide clear and concise readings of elapsed time, while the date window at the 6 o'clock position adds a practical touch.

The Mooncraft Monster Chrono comes equipped with a three-link titanium bracelet, a robust and stylish companion for the watch's rugged aesthetic. The brushed finish of the bracelet complements the case, creating a cohesive look that exudes understated elegance. The deployant buckle, with its push-button release mechanism, ensures secure fastening and easy removal, while the fine adjustment system allows for a perfect fit on any wrist.

At $3,995, the Shinola Mooncraft Monster Chrono 43mm may not be the most accessible watch on the market, but it represents exceptional value for the discerning collector. Its limited production run of 500 pieces, combined with its unique design and historical significance, make it a highly sought-after timepiece that is sure to appreciate in value over time. The watch's custom packaging, commemorating Detroit's contribution to the space race, adds another layer of exclusivity and makes it a true collector's item.



The Shinola Mooncraft Monster Chrono 43mm is more than just a watch; it's a testament to human ingenuity, a tribute to American manufacturing, and a celebration of our collective journey into the cosmos. It's a watch that tells a story, a watch that inspires, and a watch that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned watch collector or a passionate enthusiast, the Mooncraft Monster Chrono is a timepiece that deserves a place in your collection.