After visiting the Shinola factory back in 2014, it seems as though Bill Clinton has remained an extremely loyal fan (and customer) of the Detroit-based lifestyle brand. During his speech at last night's Democratic National Convention, the possible future First Gentleman of the United States was clearing seen wearing his beloved Shinola Runwell, an oversized 47mm quartz watch with a dark dial, brown stitched strap, and onion-shaped crown.
President Clinton, well known for his love of watches, seems to have given the Runwell a permanent place on his wrist, claiming "it is elegant and informal." He also has a penchant for the oversize numerals on the face, which are kind to his nearly 70-year-old eyesight.
Shinola watches, assembled in the brand's Detroit factory using domestic and internationally sourced parts, came under a bit of scrutiny earlier this year for what exactly the company's definition of "Made in America" really means. After some recent rebranding and last night's very visible endorsement from our 42nd President—and recently our 43rd—it seems the $550 watch is still doing its part, however small, to bring jobs back to Detroit and help reinvigorate American manufacturing.
The Runwell 47mm ($550) by Shinola, shinola.com.
