I have met Josh Shapiro, the owner of the same name, Jn Shapiro Watches, several times. The Los Angeles native has extensive knowledge of the history of making watches, movement and finishing techniques. Until now, he has focused on exclusive and expensive watches, priced at over $75,000, with nearly three years of waiting time. The new Infinity series shows pure change, allowing a small number of buyers to own the JN Shapiro Watch faster.
JN Shapiro Watches was founded in 2018 and created several models. Famously, the brand’s revival model is the first American watch since Hamilton closed its Lancaster, Pennsylvania-based watchmaking operation in the late 1960s. However, the revival is expensive and exclusive. Aside from American productions, Josh and his team focus on hand-crafted crafts. He has made significant investments in historic equipment, including the Rose engine, committing to avoiding the modern CNC process. As we see today, the Infinity series of Pure uses these difficult techniques while keeping the final price a relative check.
Jn Shapiro Infinity Series Pure
The Shapiro Watch tends to give off a classic vibe, but that doesn’t mean that the brand ignores current trends. As a result, the pure pieces of the new Infinity series are the smallest and thinnest release of JN Shapiro to date. The two models highlight this introduction, both using 316L stainless steel cases. This is a point to explain immediately. It has a slim profile of 37mm diameter, 45.1mm length and 8.8mm including sapphire crystal. Despite its dressy appearance, each has a convenient water resistance of 50m. It is a sign that these watches are intended to be worn. Includes a black or brown crocodile strap with stainless steel pin buckles, depending on the dial you choose.
Case details
For those who closely follow the JN Shapiro brand, the pure case of the Infinity series can be very obvious. Certainly, watches like Resurrection boast patterns created by the rose ring in the midcase. These latest watches are not decorated. This certainly helps with the price range, but that doesn’t mean it’s not appealing. The inside case is sandwiched between the polished bezel and the caseback. Interestingly, although the manufacturer of the incident has not been leaked to the press, Shapiro says they are sourced from fellow Alternative Watch Alliance (AHA) members. The group was announced last year on Geneva Watch Days and includes Ming, Fleming, Fears, Massena Lab and of course JN Shapiro.
The dial and the hand are the stars of the show
Shapiro doesn’t hide the fact that dials and mobile phones are the main cost drivers of the Infinity series. Frost silver or black zirconium versions are available in hand in polished rose gold or white gold, respectively. All the brand’s Signature Infinity Weave Guilloché are done by hand with a vintage rose engine. Similarly, the circular brushed hours/min truck includes a ring of filet sauteed guillochi, created using a straight line engine. Shapiro’s small team creates and polishes mobile phones in-house.
Lajox pellet caliber under an engraved caseback
I’ve gotten used to seeing exquisitely completed movements with Shapiro’s watches, but the Infinity Series Pure has an all-steel case. However, the consolation prize is good. This is because the caseback is turned into an engine, with beautiful patterns and endless symbols engraved in the center. Inside, the watch uses a La Joux-Perret F200. This is a manual winding caliber with a 3Hz (21,600VPH) frequency and a 90-hour power reserve.
Thinking about Infinity Series Pure
The new Infinity Series Pure is classically appealing. Both colorways have beautiful dial designs. Details such as the logo on the plate and various surface textures are classy. Furthermore, as someone who looked up the Shapiro dial under the magnifying glass, I can testify that the events are no match for anyone. But the place I struggled with previous releases was on my wrist. Despite its moderate diameter, the case design did not always fit the shape of my wrist. I haven’t tried these new pieces yet, but the size and shape seem to improve for those with smaller forearms.
It’s reasonably priced, but still expensive
At USD 26,000 (excluding taxes and obligations), the JN Shapiro Infinity Series Pure represents a departure from the brand’s regular pricing level. Only 18 will be made each for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2025. The price may be more affordable, but it is still expensive. Additionally, the use of third-party movements can elici concerns from some. Essentially, the cost of this watch depends on hand fishing on the dial, hand and caseback. It is also linked to heavy investments in brand locations and equipment over the past few years. Yes, other small brands like Garrick offer similar seduction at low prices. It is difficult to assess the comparative value between watches like this, and buyer decisions can include everything from the design and relationships with the manufacturer to the story behind the watch. Anyway, I’m sure 36 people will enjoy owning watches from Shapiro’s workshop.
