Kronos Putters is a company that designs and manufactures high-quality putters for golfers. The company rose to fame after its appearance on the popular TV show Shark Tank, where it secured an investment from one of the sharks, Robert Herjavec. The company’s unique design and commitment to using high-quality materials have made it a favorite among golfers, and its appearance on Shark Tank gave it even greater exposure [1].
However, appearing on Shark Tank was just the beginning for Kronos Putters. fter securing the investment from Mark Cuban, the company had to navigate the challenges of scaling its business and meeting the increased demand for its products. In the years since its appearance on the show, Kronos Putters has continued to innovate and expand its product line while also facing the challenges of running a growing business.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what has happened to Kronos Putters since its appearance on Shark Tank. We will examine the company’s growth and expansion, the challenges it has faced, and the strategies it has used to overcome those challenges. We will also explore how the company has continued to innovate and differentiate itself in a highly competitive market, and how it has maintained its commitment to quality and craftsmanship despite the pressures of growth and expansion.
Overall, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of Kronos Putters and its journey since its appearance on Shark Tank. By examining the company’s successes and challenges, we hope to provide valuable insights into what it takes to build and grow a successful business in the highly competitive world of golf equipment manufacturing.
What Is Kronos Putters?
Kronos Putters is a precision-milled and balanced putter business based in San Diego, California. Founded in 2011 by Phillip Lapuz and Eric Williams, Kronos Putters has quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality putters that emphasize precision and feel [2].
The company differentiates itself from other putter manufacturers by taking a handmade approach to its craft, with each putter milled to the highest possible standards using state-of-the-art CNC machines. This approach ensures that each putter is precisely engineered to perform to the best of its abilities, with each detail carefully crafted to ensure the optimal balance and feel for golfers of all skill levels.
Features of Kronos Putters
In addition to the Metronome putter, Kronos Putters also offers a range of other putter models that are designed to suit different playing styles and preferences. These include the Touch putter, which features a softer milled face for a more delicate touch, and the Protoro putter, which is designed for golfers who prefer a smaller putter head and a more traditional look [3].
Another popular Kronos putter is the Siesta putter, which features a unique “lazy NECK” design that provides golfers with exceptional feedback and feel on impact. The Siesta putter is designed to help golfers achieve a smoother, more consistent putting stroke, and is ideal for golfers who demand the very best in their equipment.
Despite the company’s commitment to producing high-quality putters, Kronos Putters has faced challenges in reaching a wider audience. While the company has enjoyed some success in the golf industry, limited brand recognition and a crowded market have made it difficult to stand out from the competition.
Kronos Putters is a distinctive brand that offers golfers an innovative and precision-engineered approach to putting. With a focus on handcrafted quality and innovative design, the company has established itself as a go-to brand for golfers who demand the very best in their equipment. While the company continues to face challenges in building its brand and reaching a wider audience, its commitment to excellence in manufacturing and design suggests that it will remain a top choice for discerning golfers in the years to come.
About The Founders of Kronos Putters
Kronos Putters is a golf brand that was founded in 2013 by Phillip Lapuz and Aaron Dill. With a shared passion for golf and a desire to create the best possible putters, Lapuz and Dill set out to design and engineer putters that offered exceptional balance, feel, and performance on the green [4].
Phillip Lapuz is a Stanford-educated engineer who had previously worked for several years in the aerospace industry. His expertise in precision engineering and design was critical in developing the unique hollow chamber design in the Kronos putter head that would later become the signature feature of Kronos Putters.
Aaron Dill, who has been dubbed the “Dale Earnhardt Jr. of custom golf clubs”, is a master craftsman who has worked with some of the biggest names in golf, including Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. Dill’s expertise in custom club fitting and design helped to refine and perfect the feel and balance of the Kronos putters, ensuring that each putter was perfectly tuned to the individual golfer.
Together, Lapuz and Dill leveraged their complementary skill sets to create the Kronos Metronome putter, which quickly gained popularity among serious golfers seeking the very best in their equipment. The Metronome putter’s unique hollow chamber design helps to redistribute weight and alter the center of gravity, resulting in a putter that is exceedingly stable and forgiving on the green.
The Pitch Of Kronos Putters At Shark Tank
Kronos Putters appeared on Season 6 of Shark Tank, where co-founders Phillip Lapuz and Eric Williams pitched their precision-crafted and hand-finished putters to the Sharks. The pitch episode aired on September 26, 2014, and is remembered as an emotional one that moved the Sharks to tears.
Phillip Lapuz began the pitch by describing the unique hollow chamber design of the Kronos putter head, which redistributes weight and alters the center of gravity for a more stable and forgiving putter. He then demonstrated how the putters were crafted using precision CNC milling and painstaking hand-finishing to create a high-quality product that outperformed other putters on the market.
The Sharks were impressed with the quality of the product and the passion and expertise of Lapuz and Williams. While it was clear that the Sharks recognized the potential of the business, they were also moved by Lapuz’s story of overcoming personal and financial struggles to pursue his dream and build the business from scratch [5].
During their appearance on Shark Tank, Kronos Putters requested $150,000 for 15% equity in their company. However, this proposal didn’t sit well with all of the sharks, with four of them bowing out of the deal. Mark Cuban, who despises golf, was the first to decline the offer. Barbara Corcoran agreed with Cuban’s stance and stated that she couldn’t see herself supporting it.
Kevin O’Leary expressed skepticism about the potential for success, acknowledging that there are some instances where a golf product takes off, but those cases are rare. While O’Leary was moved by Lapuz’s touching story, he ultimately chose not to invest, as he makes business decisions based on logic rather than emotions.
Lori Greiner acknowledged the company’s niche market but decided to back out of the deal, suggesting that Kronos should concentrate on expanding its presence in Japan. In the end, Robert Herjavec, who empathized with Lapuz’s situation and his desire to better his parents’ lives, invested $150,000 for 30% equity in the company, ultimately settling for a slightly lower stake than he initially offered. They took this deal from Robert.
Kronos Putters After The Shark Tank
Following their appearance on Shark Tank, Kronos Putters did not strike a deal with any of the Sharks. However, the exposure and feedback garnered from their pitch on the show helped to boost the visibility and reputation of the brand.
Since then, Kronos Putters has continued to build a dedicated following among golfers seeking high-quality, custom-fit putters that offer exceptional balance, feel, and performance. The company has expanded its product line to include a range of models designed to meet the needs and preferences of golfers of all skill levels, from amateurs to professionals.
One highlight for Kronos Putters since their Shark Tank appearance was when their Honotori putter was displayed at the British Golf Museum. This putter was inspired by Japanese art and culture and features a detailed design that pays tribute to the natural world [6].
Kronos Putters has continued to stay involved with the golf community, attending events and tournaments to showcase their products and connect with customers. The company’s commitment to precision engineering, custom fitting services, and high-quality craftsmanship has helped to establish them as a respected and sought-after brand in the competitive world of golf equipment.
Asahi Golf, located in Japan, currently distributes Kronos Putters. Along with Kronos, Asahi Golf also distributes golf products from major brands such as Nike, Taylormade/Adidas, and Callaway. During their appearance on Shark Tank, the founders of Kronos Putters acknowledged that gaining recognition in the US market would require celebrity endorsements.
However, Kronos has managed to get four professional golfers to use their putters across the Champions Tour, PGA Tour, and LPGA Tour. Due to ongoing negotiations with their agents, the company is not permitted to reveal the names of these professional golfers at present. Despite this, having professional players use their products is a significant achievement for Kronos, as it speaks to the quality and effectiveness of their putters.
The Net Worth Of Kronos Putters
Kronos Putters has expanded its product portfolio to include seven premium putter models, including a left-handed option. These models are being sold by prominent brands such as Adidas, Nike, and Callaway. While Kronos aims to penetrate the US market in the future, its current focus remains on the Japanese market.
Typically, high-end putters do not perform well in the US unless endorsed by a professional golfer, and Kronos has not been willing to invest in such an endorsement. While the company has not released recent revenue figures, it is estimated to generate between $2-3 million in annual revenue. Despite refusing mass production, Kronos continues to thrive and is currently valued at $5 million [7].
However, one recent setback for the company is Japan’s currency weakening against the US dollar. Despite this, Kronos remains optimistic about its future prospects and is committed to delivering high-quality putters to its customers. With their niche focus and commitment to excellence, Kronos Putters is poised to continue making waves in the golf industry.
Kronos Putters On Social Media
As Kronos Putters is a manufacturer of high-end putters, they appeal to a very specific demographic of golf enthusiasts, and their presence on social media reflects this. They have a strong following on platforms such as Instagram, where they often share photos of their latest putter designs, videos of their manufacturing process, and testimonials from satisfied customers.
In addition to showcasing its products, Kronos Putters also uses social media to connect with their audience and build their brand. They frequently engage with their followers by responding to comments, hosting giveaways, and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of their company culture. They have created an online community of golf enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry and precision of a well-made putter.
Furthermore, Kronos Putters understands the importance of staying up-to-date with trends and new technology. They have a YouTube channel where they share instructional videos, equipment reviews, and interviews with professional golfers. In an age where the video is king, Kronos Putters is staying relevant and connecting with their audience by providing valuable content that offers insights into the world of golf.
Alternatives To Kronos Putters
For golfers looking for high-quality, precision-engineered putters, Kronos Putters is undoubtedly a top choice.
However, several alternatives on the market also offer exceptional quality and innovative design [8]:
- Scotty Cameron Putters. One of the most well-known alternatives to Kronos Putters is Scotty Cameron, a brand known for producing some of the finest putters in the world. Cameron Putters are renowned for their precision-engineered design, with each putter milled to the highest possible standards to ensure exceptional feel and balance. While Cameron putters may be more expensive than Kronos Putters, they are a top choice for serious golfers who demand the very best in their equipment;
- Odyssey Golf Putters. Another alternative to Kronos Putters is Odyssey Golf, a brand that offers a range of putters designed to meet the needs of golfers of all skill levels. Odyssey putters feature innovative design features, such as the company’s famous White Hot insert, which provides exceptional feel and responsiveness;
- Ping putters are known for their excellent balance and stability, making them a popular choice among golfers looking for consistency on the green. They offer a range of models and design options to suit different preferences;
- TaylorMade is a leading manufacturer of golf equipment, including putters. Their line of Spider putters is particularly popular, offering exceptional stability and precision on the greens;
- Cleveland Putters: Cleveland Golf is known for their high-quality wedges, but they also offer a line of putters that deliver exceptional feel and performance. Their Huntington Beach collection is particularly well-regarded;
Ultimately, the choice of the putter will depend on the golfer’s individual needs and preferences. While Kronos Putters is known for its innovative design and precision engineering, there are many other options on the market that offer similar levels of quality and performance.
Golfers looking to try out different putters should consider visiting a professional club fitting service or participating in a demo day to test out different models and find the one that works best for their game. With so many great putter options available, there’s sure to be a perfect fit for every golfer.
FAQ:
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Where is Kronos from Shark Tank now?
Kronos Putters is still in business after appearing on Shark Tank. Since securing an investment from Mark Cuban on the show, the company has continued to grow and expand its product line.
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Did Shark Tank invest in Kronos Golf?
Yes, Mark Cuban invested $150,000 for a 33% stake in Kronos Putters during the company’s appearance on Shark Tank [9].
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Is Kronos profitable?
It is not publicly known whether Kronos Putters is profitable or not. However, the company has continued to grow and expand its product line, which suggests that it is doing well.
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How many people use Kronos?
It is not publicly known how many people use Kronos Putters. However, the company has a loyal following among golfers who appreciate its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
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Is Kronos Golf a big company?
Kronos Putters is a relatively small company compared to some of the larger golf equipment manufacturers. However, it has gained a reputation for producing high-quality putters and has a dedicated following among golfers.
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Where is Kronos Golf located?
Kronos Putters is located in San Diego, California, USA.
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Does Amazon use Kronos Golf products?
Amazon does sell a wide range of golf equipment, including putters from various manufacturers, but it is not clear whether they sell Kronos Golf putters specifically. It is important to note that Amazon is a third-party retailer and is not affiliated with Kronos Golf. If you are interested in purchasing a Kronos Golf putter, it is recommended that you visit their website or contact them directly to inquire about purchasing options.
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What big companies use Kronos putters?
The company has gained a reputation for producing high-quality putters and has a loyal following among golfers all around the world. They have participated in the Japan Golf Fair, which is one of the largest golf events in Japan. Overall, while Kronos Golf is based in the US, they have a presence and strong following in Japan.
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Is Kronos going away?
There is no indication that Kronos Putters is going away. The company has continued to grow and expand its product line since appearing on Shark Tank.
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How many clients does Kronos Golf have?
It is not publicly known how many clients Kronos Putters has. However, the company has a loyal following among golfers who appreciate its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
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What makes Kronos Putters different from other putters on the market?
Kronos Putters are handmade and precision-crafted using the highest quality materials. They are designed to provide exceptional balance, feel, and precision on the green. The attention to detail that goes into each putter is evident in their smooth lines, intricate milling patterns, and overall finish. Kronos Putters has become a top choice for golfers looking for a putter that offers both style and performance.
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What types of putters does Kronos offer?
Kronos offers a range of putter styles, including mallet, blade, and mid-mallet designs. Each design is available in a range of finishes, including hand-polished stainless steel, black PVD, raw, and antique bronze. They also offer limited-edition designs that feature unique milling patterns and finishes [10].
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Are Kronos Putters customizable?
Yes, Kronos offers a range of customization options, including engraving, paint fill, and custom grips. Customers can also choose from a range of head weights and lie angles to ensure a perfect fit for their swing.
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How can I purchase a Kronos Golf putter?
Kronos Putters can be purchased directly from their website or through select authorized dealers. Customers can also contact Kronos directly to inquire about custom designs or bulk orders.
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What is Kronos’ warranty policy?
Kronos offers a 100-day guarantee on all putters. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase within 100 days of receiving it, you can return it for a full refund.
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Can I try out a Kronos Putter before purchasing?
Kronos offers a 14-day trial program, which allows customers to try out a putter for two weeks before deciding whether to purchase it. The trial program is only available for domestic US customers [11].
Useful Video: The Sharks Are Moved To Tears With Kronos Owner’s Dilemma | Shark Tank US | Shark Tank Global
References:
- https://gazettereview.com/kronos-putter-after-shark-tank-updates-news/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/kronos-putters/
- https://insidergrowth.com/kronos-golf-net-worth/
- https://2paragraphs.com/2019/03/kronos-what-happened-to-precision-milled-golf-putters-after-shark-tank/
- https://www.earnthenecklace.com/kronos-golf-update-2018-shark-tank/
- https://www.assemblymade.com/2021/04/what-happened-to-kronos-putters-after-shark-tank/
- https://sharktanktales.com/kronos-golf-shark-tank-update/
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/kronos-golf-putters/
- https://sharktanktales.com/kronos-golf-shark-tank-update/
- https://heavy.com/entertainment/2015/01/kronos-golf-putters-shark-tank-products-january-2-rerun/
- https://techiegamers.com/kronos-golf-net-worth/