Nixon Watch History

Nixon watches were founded in 1997 in Encinitas, California as the founders Andy Laats and Chad DiNenna felt something was missing in the watch market.

Founder Chad DiNenna, originally an advertising salesman, went shopping for a watch to suit his individual needs unable to find what he was looking for he decided there was a gap in the market for action sports watches.  He discussed his idea with Andy Laats, a mechanical engineer, who was completing his MBA at Stanford and together they raised $1 million to turn their idea into a reality. 

From a cramped apartment in 1997 Nixon the company now has an average sales growth yearly of 55 percent. Nixon watches were just what was missing in the market. They are practical and look good customers realise this Nixon now has stores in 25 countries.  Laats and DiNenna, the founders of Nixon watches, have been acknowledged for their work by being awarded the consumer products category at Ernest and Young’s entrepreneurs of the Year in San Diego in 2005. In January 2006 Nixon was brought by Billabong International for $54.6 million.

Nixon watches now have a following of professional surfers, skate and snow boarders who appreciate the versatility and style of Nixon watches. Nixon watches incorporate a sense of adventure, risk and independence in their watches. There are many sports professional’s who are sponsored by Nixon watches such as ledged and professional skater Tony Hawk, surfer Andy Irons, snow boarder Dave Donning, numerous entertainers.  Many of these sports professionals meet with Nixon’s executive to discuss their ideas, style and different designs. An example of this is the Nixon Dork watch which features Tony Hawk singing James Brown’s ‘Get Up’ as an alarm feature.

Nixon has now expanded their range of watches to include other accessories, clothing and footwear. The Nixon brand is well known amongst the surf, skate and snow and has also hosted a surf challenge in San Sebastian since 2000. In 2008 Nixon released one of a kind watches made from original celebrity artwork with all proceeds going to charity.