Sheffield is a contemporary American watch microbrand founded in 2023 by Jay Turkbas, a product development veteran with over 30 years of experience. Turkbas, who is based in the United States, revived the name of a defunct 1960s Swiss watch company to honor the legacy of his first dive watch, which he received as a child in 1970. The brand emphasizes a personal journey rooted in nostalgia and a commitment to delivering high-specification tool watches at accessible price points.
Enthusiasts are drawn to Sheffield for its combination of heritage-inspired design and modern, rugged materials. The brand is noted for its radical transparency regarding global sourcing and manufacturing, openly acknowledging that while parts are sourced globally and assembled in China, they prioritize durability and functional value. Collectors appreciate that the watches offer premium details—such as 316L stainless steel, sapphire crystals with anti-reflective coating, and Swiss Super-LumiNova—at prices often significantly lower than competitors with similar specifications.
The brand’s catalog features several key models: – Allsport Diver 1: A flagship 40mm quartz model powered by a Miyota movement, featuring 200-meter water resistance.
– Allsport 1A: An automatic version powered by the Seiko NH35 movement, serving as a direct homage to the original 1970s skin diver. It is also available in a 38mm case size.
– VisiLume GMT: A white-dialed travel watch that has gained traction for its functional design and affordability.
– SCR Collection: A lineup developed in collaboration with Spike Feresten, featuring Swiss-movement chronographs and the St. Barths Diver 1A.
– Special Editions: Notable collaborations include a limited-edition Driver’s Watch developed with Jay Leno’s Garage and the Sheffield 24Hr featuring a distinct day/night dial.
