Swedish hybrid smartwatch brand combining classic Scandinavian watch design with connected technology. Founded by former Sony Mobile executives, Kronaby produces elegant timepieces that look like traditional analog watches but feature smart functions including notifications, music control, activity tracking, and phone location via a smartphone app.
Kronaby was born from the dissolution of Sony Mobile's accessories division in Sweden. In late 2015, four former Sony Mobile executives—Sarandis Kalogeropulos, Thomas Sandelius, Pål Borge, and Fredrik Rosén—founded Anima AB in Malmö with backing from Chinese electronics manufacturer Goertek. The company initially had no specific product in mind, but in January 2016, the team decided to create a hybrid smartwatch brand. The name 'Kronaby' combines 'krono' (time) with 'by' (Swedish for village). After attending Baselworld 2016 for research, they returned in 2017 with a complete four-collection lineup: Apex, Sekel, Carat, and Nord. The watches achieved revenues of $37 million in 2017 and $50 million in 2018. However, in December 2018, majority owner Goertek abruptly withdrew all financial support to focus on component manufacturing. Anima AB filed for bankruptcy in February 2019, putting 60 jobs at risk. The brand was rescued in March 2019 when Spanish watch conglomerate Festina Lotus SA acquired all assets and intellectual property from the bankruptcy estate. Under Festina Group ownership, Kronaby continues to operate with R&D remaining in Malmö.
PRICE SEGMENT
Entry LevelMOVEMENT TYPES
MANUFACTURING
AssemblerHEADQUARTERS
Sweden2016 Anima AB (backed by Goertek)
2019 Festina Group (Festina Lotus SA)
Current Festina Group
