History and Interesting Facts about Kronaby Watches

Kronaby Watches is a relatively young but rapidly growing Swedish brand founded in 2015. It was created by a team of former Sony Mobile employees with a clear vision: to develop watches that combine the elegant appearance of classic analog timepieces with smart device features — without compromising on design or battery life. The result is hybrid smartwatches that allow users to enjoy the traditional look of watches while benefiting from modern digital connectivity and control.

History and Brand Philosophy

The founders of Kronaby believed that today’s users want to stay digitally connected but do not want to be overwhelmed by constant notifications or the hassle of daily charging. Hence, their motto is “connected, not distracted.” All Kronaby watches are designed to keep technology discreet, allowing the watch to remain a stylish accessory and a reliable timekeeper.

Hybrid Watch Technology

Kronaby watches are not traditional smartwatches with a screen. Instead, they use mechanical hands complemented by intelligent electronics housed inside the case. This technology lets users receive notifications through discreet vibrations and subtle movements of the hands, signaling incoming calls, texts, emails, or app alerts depending on the user’s preferences.

Other features include:

• Step counter and activity tracking to promote a healthy lifestyle

• Music control buttons for easy playback, pause, or track changes on the phone

• Remote camera shutter, perfect for group photos or selfies without holding the phone

• “Find my phone” feature to help locate the paired smartphone

• Programmable buttons that can be customized for quick dial, smart home control, or favorite app launch

One of Kronaby’s biggest advantages is battery life. Unlike full-featured smartwatches that require frequent charging, Kronaby watches can last up to two years on a standard coin-cell battery.

Design and Materials

The design is inspired by Scandinavian aesthetics—simple, clean, and functional. Watches are crafted mainly from high-grade 316L stainless steel with various finishes such as brushed, polished, or PVD coatings. Sapphire crystal glass ensures excellent scratch resistance and optical clarity.

Kronaby offers several collections catering to different user preferences:

• Apex — sporty and robust models for an active lifestyle

• Sekel — elegant, classic designs for formal and casual occasions

• Nord — minimalist Scandinavian style

• Carat — refined models primarily aimed at women

All models are water-resistant to 100 meters, suitable for everyday wear including incidental water exposure.

User Experience and Controls

Connection to the smartphone is managed through the Kronaby app available on both Android and iOS. The app’s interface is intuitive, allowing easy customization of notifications, buttons, activity tracking, and more. The watches feature “smart wake,” where the hands automatically adjust to not obstruct notification readability.

Physical buttons provide quick access to functions without needing to reach for the phone, enhancing usability in daily life.

Financial Development

Despite a strong start and positive reception, Kronaby’s parent company Anima AB faced financial difficulties in 2019 and filed for bankruptcy. The brand was acquired by Chinese electronics manufacturer Goertek, which continues to support and develop Kronaby.

Conclusion

Kronaby Watches are an ideal choice for those seeking classic analog watches with added smart functionalities. They offer elegant design, long battery life, and subtle digital connectivity appreciated by users who value style and practicality. Despite challenges, Kronaby maintains its market position and continues to provide quality products merging traditional watchmaking with modern technology.

You can see our full range of the most popular watches below.