Superlative

Superlative


Building the Future of American Watchmaking with Josh Shapiro of J.N. Shapiro Watches

November 17, 2025

On this episode of Superlative, host Ariel Adams sits down with Josh Shapiro, the founder and CEO of J.N. Shapiro Watches, for a deep look into how one of the most impressive independent American watchmaking operations has taken shape in Southern California. Josh shares the evolution of his brand from a garage guilloche hobby into a fully verticalized manufacturing facility producing movements, cases, and dials with a focus on rare craft techniques and extraordinary hand finishing. He and Ariel discuss the balance between artistic authenticity and operational growth, the realities of creating American made movements, the unique personalities and skills on Josh’s expanding team, and the long term vision for advanced manufacturing, education, and industry infrastructure in the United States. They also examine the impact of tariffs, supply chain shifts, retailer relationships, and the type of collector who is drawn to J.N. Shapiro’s work. This conversation offers an in depth perspective on craftsmanship, business discipline, and the future of independent horology through the lens of one of America’s most ambitious modern watchmakers.



Keep up with Josh and J.N. Shapiro Watches:


- Website: https://www.jnshapirowatches.com/


- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jnshapiro_watches/




Check out this week’s sponsor - Jack Mason Watches:


- https://jackmasonbrand.com/



SUPERLATIVE IS NOW ON YOUTUBE!

To check out Superlative on Youtube as well as other ABTW content:


- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ablogtowatch



To check out the ABTW Shop where you can see our products inspired by our love of Horology:


- Shop ABTW - https://store.ablogtowatch.com/



To keep updated with everything Superlative and aBlogtoWatch, check us out on:


- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ablogtowatch/


- Twitter - https://twitter.com/ABLOGTOWATCH


- Website - https://www.ablogtowatch.com/



If you enjoy the show please Subscribe, Rate, and Review!