Golden Hour Every Hour: The Shinola Circadian Monster Automatic Watch Is A Masterclass In Downsized Luxury

In the horological universe, the trend for the past decade has largely been “bigger is better.” We have seen dive watches swell to the size of dinner plates and tactical timepieces that require their own postcode. However, a refreshing shift is currently sweeping through the industry—a return to restraint, elegance, and classic proportions.

Leading this charge with a surprising amount of gold-plated swagger is Detroit’s very own Shinola. Known for their rugged, industrial aesthetic, they have taken their iconic Monster silhouette, put it on a diet, and dressed it in its Sunday best to create the Shinola Circadian Monster Automatic Watch.

The first thing that strikes you about the Circadian Monster is the size. At a modest 36mm, it represents a significant departure from the beefy 43mm dimensions usually associated with the Monster line. But make no mistake, this isn’t a “shrink it and pink it” situation.

The 36mm case feels incredibly balanced, sitting on the wrist with a purposeful weight that works equally well for men and women. It is a nod to the vintage field and dress watches of the mid-20th century, where comfort and wearability were paramount. The case thickness is a slender 9.25mm, allowing it to slide effortlessly under a shirt cuff—something its larger siblings often struggle to do.

Visually, the watch is a stunner. It draws its inspiration from the natural 24-hour circadian cycle of day and night, a concept that is elegantly translated into its design language. The case is finished in a polished PVD gold stainless steel that exudes warmth without looking gaudy.

Shinola has employed alternating brushed and polished surfaces to give the gold finish a three-dimensional character, ensuring it catches the light in a way that is sophisticated rather than shouting for attention.

This golden housing frames a deep, glossy black enamel dial that looks like a pool of ink. The contrast between the gold indices and the black void of the dial is stark and beautiful, offering high legibility and a touch of noir glamour.

Under the hood, the Circadian Monster proves it is more than just a pretty face. It is powered by the Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, a workhorse caliber known for its reliability and precision.

In a move that will delight gearheads, Shinola has included an exhibition caseback, allowing you to watch the mechanical heartbeat of the watch as it ticks away the seconds. It is a feature that elevates the piece from a fashion accessory to a serious timepiece.

Despite its dressy appearance, it hasn’t forgotten its “Monster” roots; it boasts a 10 ATM depth rating and a screw-down crown, meaning it is more than capable of handling a dip in the pool or a sudden downpour.

Priced at £1600, the Circadian Monster sits in a competitive bracket, but it justifies the cost with its impeccable finishing and that intangible “cool factor” Shinola seems to bottle so effortlessly. It comes on a refined gold bracelet that completes the look, feeling substantial and secure on the wrist.

Furthermore, Shinola backs their craftsmanship with an industry-leading limited lifetime warranty, a promise that speaks volumes about their confidence in the build quality. Whether you are navigating the concrete jungle or actually heading out for a night on the town, this is a watch that understands the balance between work and rest, light and dark. It is a monster, yes, but one with impeccable manners.

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