Stanton Watch Co.

It’s always nice to see start-ups in the watch making industry. Whether it’s some big Kickstarter approach to make a “smart” watch or an old fashioned “build it and they will come” sort of mentality, new watch makers means one thing for us timepiece enthusiasts–more watches to choose from.

Today we’re taking a look at the Stanton Watch Company, a passion project of founder Michael Stanton that came to fruition only in the past year or so. In a short period of time he’s gotten lots of buzz around the internet, launched a women’s line of watches, and has already sold out 2 of the 4 men’s limited edition models he’s currently offering. With cases from Germany, movements from Switzerland, folding steel clasps from California, and straps from France, Germany, and Florida, he’s found a winning combination of sourcing parts from all over the world for Stanton Watch Co. So without further ado, let’s check out some of the pieces.

The Ludlow and L.E.S. (Lower East Side) Edition watches are classically elegant. Right off the bat, you can tell these would look great with a suit. Their 38mm and 40mm stainless steel cases, respectively, should sit nicely on the wrist and under a cuff, while the accompaniment of leather straps and Roman numeral dials on both models gives a nod to more classic timepieces. Both models feature sapphire crystals and display case backs to gaze upon the 25 jewel Swiss movements packed inside. These early models are already sold out, but were selling for under $1000.

Which brings us to the good news in that there are still two models available from Stanton Watch Co. The Mercer and The Grand editions are both 38mm watches packing similar specs–stainless steel cases, sapphire crystals, leather straps, and display case backs. They also keep with the signature Stanton Watch Co. aesthetic of having clean dials with Roman numerals; however the Grand Edition offers something new in the way of a light metallic colored dial, black steel hands, and a gold plated bezel. It is perhaps the most elegant of the bunch and highlights the watchmaker’s developing talent in design and assembly. It’s also the first watch to break the 1k mark at $1245, but if it’s any indication of where things are going for Stanton Watch Co., it’s exciting.

The Stanton Watch Company was founded in New York City and is currently headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey.  Founder and lead watchmaker, Michael Stanton, attributes a lot of the inspiration for his watches coming from the city that never sleeps and shares his progress in creating and assembling Stanton Watch Co. products on the company’s blog. I’m curious to see what he comes up with next, but for now I’d say he’s off to a nice start.

By Tom Caruso