Author Archives: Lesa Stewart

Primus Carbon Fiber (CF)

CARBON FIBER WHEEL PROVIDES LUXURY LOOK WITHOUT THE PRICE

For all the hours dedicated sportfishermen spend at the helm, the savvy ones know how to do it in comfort and style. The new Schmitt Marine Primus CF delivers all the performance, reliability and looks discerning owners expect from a luxury grade carbon fiber steering wheel, at a smart price point. It debuts at IBEX, Oct. 3-5, Tampa, Florida, booth 3-1831.

The sleek, modern beauty of this 13-1/2″ steering wheel belies its rugged construction. Its dynamic 3-spoke design incorporates carbon fiber throughout for a seamless stylized look that exudes gritty sophistication. The Primus CF’s 1-1/8″ diameter ring, along with its UV-resistant black santoprene rubber finger grip and rim grip, help reduce hand fatigue for secure, all-weather comfort during long runs offshore.

For those wanting the occasional faster wheel spin with one-handed maneuvering, the Schmitt Marine Primus CF carbon fiber steering wheel comes in a control knob model. Glass ball bearings in the knob deliver optimum performance and responsiveness.

Both models come in a 3/4″ tapered hub, with a choice of 5/8″ or 1/2″ carbon-encased stainless steel center nuts. NMMA Type Accepted meeting ABYC standards and CE certified, the Primus CF meets stringent safety requirements. Its carbon fiber construction is overlaid on a fiberglass backbone, which helps disperse energy from forceful impacts.

Expert innovators in steering accessories for more than 50 years, Schmitt Marine offers its Primus CF carbon fiber steering wheel for both OEMs and aftermarket refits. For pricing and availability, contact the manufacturer.

Contact Schmitt Marine, 1001 Ranck Mill Rd., Lancaster, PA 17602. 866-724-6488 (866-SCHMITT); Fax: 866-329-7679 (866-FAXSMSW). sales@schmittmarine.com. www.schmittmarine.com.

SCHMITT & ONGARO RENAMES, REBRANDS

SCHMITT & ONGARO MARINE PRODUCTS RENAMES, REBRANDS

To better clarify its company image, Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products has renamed and rebranded to Schmitt Marine, with product line brands Schmitt Steering Wheels and Ongaro Marine housed within the top-tier umbrella. Tim Schmitt, president, made the announcement.

“Since Schmitt acquired Ongaro Marine in 2008, there’s been confusion in the marketplace as to the relationship between our products and our legacy company names,” said Schmitt. “The rebranding simplifies our image and better defines our product lines. It also provides a wider avenue from which we can evolve and grow our offerings in exciting, new directions.” Schmitt Steering Wheels will house the company’s stainless steel and polyurethane marine wheels. The Ongaro Marine brand will contain the wiper systems and horns.

Parallel to the company renaming is the introduction of a new series of logos. Fresh and clean, the main Schmitt Marine subtly incorporates the “S” and “O” from original company names. The secondary brands provide a distinct relational connection to the primary mark. Subsequent phases of the rebranding process will include a website redesign, updated literature, and other marketing and sales collateral.

What hasn’t changed is Schmitt Marine’s commitment to delivering on its brand promise of quality, innovation and value. The company manufactures a wide range of products for numerous OEMs worldwide, many of which are completely custom-styled and branded, as well as stock items for retail.

SCAN AND OPEN PDF

5-SPOKE PU DESTROYER WHEEL

The Polyurethane Destroyer Wheel from Schmitt & Ongaro Marine features a durable covered rim that provides commercial mariners and recreational boaters the positive grip needed for optimal control when running in foul weather. Ideal for OEM and aftermarket installation, it makes the perfect addition to RIBs, skiffs, runabouts and small workboats.

Available in 14″ and 16″ diameters, the Polyurethane Destroyer Wheel has five polished stainless steel spokes for maximum rigidity. The solid steel rim is covered in a molded black UV-resistant polyurethane that has the look and feel of leather. With finger notches and just enough padding to reduce felt vibration, it offers a solid yet comfortable grip. A 22° dish provides sufficient steering clearance without sacrificing seating space. Fitting a 3/4″ tapered shaft, it comes standard with a black center cap.

NMMA certified, the 14″ Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Polyurethane Destroyer Wheel costs $120.10; the 16″ model is $129.10. It’s available packaged for retail and in bulk with quantity pricing for OEM installation.

The original designer of the five-spoke destroyer wheel in 1965, Schmitt & Ongaro builds quality, innovation and value into each of its products. It offers a wide range of marine steering wheels, horns, control arms, windshield wipers and related accessories.

Contact Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, 1001 Ranck Mill Rd., Lancaster, PA 17602. 866-724-6488 (866-SCHMITT); Fax: 866-329-7679 (866-FAXSMSW). sales@schmittsteering.com. www.schmittongaromarine.com.

TORCELLO STEERING WHEELS

POPULAR TORCELLO PU STEERING WHEEL NOW CE MARKED

When Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products debuted the Torcello by Stella, the polyurethane marine steering wheel reset the bar for quality, customization and pure good looks. Now, along with NMMA certification, the popular component is CE marked (Conformitè Europëenne) to conform with EU safety, health and environmental requirements, making it even more attractive to European OEMs and distributors.

The three-spoke 14″ Torcello series is all about trim enhancements. By offering a wide range of customizations, the steering wheel can be tailored to match virtually any boat décor and style. Even the cap can be branded with the boatbuilder’s logo. Plus, it provides the ability to meet a set price point without sacrificing quality. The wheel is offered in three models; all come with a 3/4″ tapered or optional splined hub.

The 03 version is the stock Torcello wheel and is available with black, brushed or polished spokes, a choice of chrome or no spoke trim, and scalloped chrome or plastic cap. The 04 model adds more levels of trim enhancements, while the 05 offers a choice of burl wood or carbon fiber finishes on the wheel rim and trim sectors. For OEMs, Schmitt & Ongaro’s Torcello Elite is wrapped in hand-stitched marine-grade synthetic leather. Options and pricing are available by contacting sales@schmittsteering.com.

SCHMITT & ONGARO POSTS RECORD INTERNATIONAL SALES

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, manufacturer of premium marine steering wheels, wipers, horns and related accessories for OEM and aftermarket, has posted year-over-year double-digit sales growth for its European warehouse. The growth is attributed to increased volume through distribution and the expansion of strategic OEM partnerships. Tim Schmitt, president, made the announcement.

Established in 2013, the warehouse in Dronten, the Netherlands enables Schmitt & Ongaro to respond to European customer needs quicker and at lower shipping costs than if coming from the US, especially on smaller orders. This has been particularly advantageous the past two years in combatting logistics backlogs the industry has seen. Additionally, the centralized location provides its rep group International Manufacturers Direct Sales the opportunity to promote products to its OEM customers that are seen regularly on iconic North American boat brands.

“Our brand promise of quality, innovation and value has really resonated within the European market,” said Watson “Roby” Holland, VP of sales and marketing. “These standards of excellence are something that boatbuilders can relate to as they choose premium components for their vessels.” OEMs and distributors interested in Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, including its CE-certified items, should contact sales@schmittsteering.com.

NEW – TORCELLO ELITE – Luxurious Leather Wrapped Marine Steering Wheel

Few things on a boat have the power to convey a sense of luxury as much as the steering wheel. The new Torcello Elite from Schmitt & Ongaro Marine does just that. Wrapped in hand-stitched marine-grade synthetic leather, it delivers a hand feel that matches that of a premium automobile.

Designed to be customized in quantity to match virtually any boat interior, the 14″ polyurethane Torcello Elite can be manufactured in an endless array of leather and stitching color combinations. The three thick aluminum spokes are available in polished or black anodized finishes to enhance the décor and a choice of attractive center caps are offered, including OEM-branded. It’s available with a 3/4″ tapered or optional splined hub.

Schmitt & Ongaro engineers partner with OEMs to design the Torcello Elite that best matches the boat model. Digital renderings provide visual confirmation to assist in the process.

Thoroughly tested, the Torcello Elite from Schmitt & Ongaro meets ABYC and NMMA standards; CE approval is pending. MSRP starts at $910.

Welcome Aboard – Watson “Roby” Holland, VP of Sales and Marketing

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, manufacturer of premium marine steering wheels, horns, wipers and other components for recreational and commercial vessels, has hired Watson “Roby” Holland as VP of sales and marketing. Tim Schmitt, president, made the announcement.

In his new role, Holland will create and implement a comprehensive marketing strategy for social media engagement, building brand promise and awareness, and expanding the company’s customer base. He will refine Schmitt & Ongaro’s sales processes and seek growth opportunities in new markets. Responding to OEM and end-user input, Holland will develop plans for product line expansion.

Holland brings extensive manufacturing sales experience in multiple industries to Schmitt & Ongaro. His past marine positions include global VP of sales and marketing for Ritchie Navigation where he introduced an industry-shifting safety program, as well as owner of Morse Diving International. Holland holds a bachelor of arts degree in business administration and management and an MBA from Curry College, and a certificate in dynamic work design from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

“Roby has a proven track record of developing strategies to refocus a company’s sales and marketing efforts,” said Schmitt. “Combined with his

leadership skills, his marine industry insight will be invaluable as we implement our growth tactics. We’ve very pleased to welcome Roby and look forward to his contributions to the future success of Schmitt & Ongaro.”

NEW POWDER-COATED PRIMUS WHEEL

Depending on the boat it graces, the new powder-coated Primus steering wheel from Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products can be tactical, race-inspired, sophisticated or rebellious. Made from cast stainless steel with a deep, rich, durable powder coated finish, the bold look instantly becomes the focal point of any dash and defines the style of the entire vessel. Black is the standard color, with others available upon request.

The powder-coated Primus is made using a unified investment casting surrounding an integrated steel ring. It’s so incredibly strong, it easily exceeds ABYC P-22 and ISO 8848 standards, and comes with a lifetime warranty for corrosion and structural integrity.

The marine grade 316L stainless steel is meticulously finished prior to powder coating. The result is a lustrous finish that’s impervious to weather, with little maintenance needed.

Available in 13.5″ and 15.5″ diameters, the finger-grooved rim of the Primus is thicker than most others—a generous 1–1/8″ wide. Combined with UV-resistant black Santoprene™ rubber inserts that show through the top and bottom of the wheel’s rim, it provides utmost control, and delivers all-day cushioned comfort. It’s offered in three spoke patterns: solid, slotted and slotted with matching Santoprene inserts.

Powder coated in the same attractive color as the wheel, the ergonomic control knob features corrosion-resistant glass ball bearings for trouble-free spinning. It’s mounted away from the outside edge of the rim to keep it from catching on clothing and gear.

The powder-coated Primus comes with a 3/4″ tapered shaft. Its center nut fits all standard marine steering systems.

Like all Schmitt & Ongaro steering wheels, the powder-coated Primus may be customized by OEMs. A range of Santoprene colors are available, and the knob or center nut can be engraved with the boatbuilder’s logo.

The 13.5″ Schmitt & Ongaro powder-coated Primus marine steering wheel is $710 to $787 MSRP; the 15.5″ model is $816 to $902.

Contact Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, 1001 Ranck Mill Rd., Lancaster, PA 17602. 866-724-6488 (866-SCHMITT); Fax: 866-329-7679 (866-FAXSMSW). sales@schmittsteering.com.

ABA RENEWS CONTRACT WITH SCHMITT & ONGARO FOR SS WHEELS

Supplying ABA members with quality SS marine steering wheels
for the past 19 years.

The American Boatbuilders Association (ABA) has named Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products an exclusive supplier for stainless steel steering wheels, a position it has held since 1999. The contract is for three years and is a response to the company consistently providing the marine industry with exceptional products, service and support.

The ABA is the leading buying group for independent boatbuilders in the US. Through its members’ collective buying power, it negotiates access to high-quality components and accessories at competitive prices. The organization also functions as an industry voice, representing its constituents with suppliers, governments and related industry associations. Founded in 1992, its website is www.ababoats.com.

“I am pleased that ABA and Schmitt & Ongaro have renewed our agreement for three more years. Schmitt & Ongaro provide our members with high quality stainless steering wheels at competitive costs,” said Jay Patton, ABA president. “It’s been a successful relationship for all parties and we look forward to a successful future.”

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine manufactures a wide range of innovative and superior quality marine components and accessories. The company offers some of the strongest product warranties in the industry.

PRIMUS WHEEL – A NEW ALL 316L CAST STEERING WHEEL FROM SCHMITT

NEW STAINLESS PRIMUS WHEEL IS ERGONOMIC AND DURABLE

Few components on a boat are touched as frequently as its steering wheel. That’s why Schmitt & Ongaro Marine designed Primus, its new cast stainless steel steering wheel, to deliver maximum ergonomic all-day comfort and engineered it for long-lasting, uncompromising durability. The visually striking wheel complements any helm and comes with a lifetime warranty.

The Primus is manufactured using a unified investment casting, including the integrated ring, for massive strength. NMMA type-accepted and CE certified, it’s so strong, it greatly exceeds ABYC P-22 and ISO 8848 standards. Polished to a mirror-like finish, the 316L stainless steel provides superior corrosion resistance and has minimal maintenance needs. Satin-finish and powder-coated versions will be available in the future.

Available in 13.5″ and 15.5″ diameters, the rim is slightly thicker than most other wheels. At 1–1/8″, the larger size lessens the hand fatigue that’s common with thinner styles.

UV-resistant black Santoprene™ rubber provides all-weather control and comfort, and a dramatic counterpoint to the gleaming stainless steel. Underneath, finger grips deliver a sure, solid grip. It extends through the top of the rim, providing additional gripping surface. The contiguous piece of Santoprene also extends slightly under the spoke junction for a smooth, ergonomic fit. The result is an attractive wheel that matches any helm décor.

The Primus is available in three spoke configurations: slotted with decorative Santoprene inserts, open slots or solid. Edges have a slight radius for comfort, without sacrificing its markedly defined appearance.

The optional stainless steel Control Knob is large and comfortable. It’s installed on a spoke, 3/4″ from the rim edge, to ensure it won’t interfere with any controls or the driver’s helm space. The installation has no visible protruding fasteners to catch clothing or hinder the smooth tactile experience. Schmitt designed the knob with glass ball bearings to eliminate corrosion and provide a lifetime of free-spinning.

The Primus incorporates the industry standard 3/4″ tapered hub. The durable stainless steel center nut works with all steering systems, with optional styles available.

OEMs appreciate the wide range of available options. Custom Santoprene colors are available in quantity, and the knob and center nut can be engraved with a corporate logo or model designation.

Ideal for center consoles, fly bridges, tower helms, RIBs and flats boats, the Primus is available for model year 2019, starting in May 2018. The 13.5″ model has an MSRP starting at $573.95 and the 15.5″, $633.95.

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine manufactures superior quality steering wheels, horns, control arms and knobs, wipers and other high-quality components for recreational and commercial vessels. Known for its superior customer service, the company offers some of the strongest product warranties in the industry.