Tag Archives: Boat Wheels

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.

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.

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.

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.

SCHMITT & ONGARO POSTS RECORD SALES FIGURES

Outpacing the marine industry’s overall growth trajectory, Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products, manufacturer of steering wheels, horns, wipers and other high-quality components for recreational and commercial vessels, posted record sales figures for 2017. The company saw a 9.2% increase over the same period in 2016, with a three-year overall growth total of 37.8%.

Several factors account for this exemplary growth. Schmitt & Ongaro continues to develop and market new, innovative marine steering wheels for aftermarket and OEM. The ability to provide boatbuilders semi-custom products has strengthened its customer base. Additionally, the company made purchasing easier for its European customers by accepting SEPA payments.

“With consistent growth throughout 2017, we’ve been able to put substantial energies into R&D,” said Schmitt & Ongaro Marine president, Tim Schmitt. “We’re excited about the new products we’re rolling out in 2018 and future projects that are in the design phase.”

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine manufactures a wide range of innovative and superior quality marine steering wheels, horns, wiper systems, control arms and knobs, and accessories. The company offers some of the strongest product warranties in the industry and exceptional customer service.

PREMIUM QUALITY PU STEERING WHEEL SAME COST AS PLASTIC

THE TORCELLO LITE by STELLA

Schmitt & Ongaro Marine introduces a high-quality aluminum and polyurethane marine steering wheel with a price point that’s competitive with all-plastic models. The exceptional yet economical Torcello Lite by Stella provides a sure, solid command of the helm and fits with any boat décor.

The Torcello Lite is made to the same high, demanding standards for which the Stella brand is renowned. Boatbuilders can upgrade from a basic plastic marine steering wheel to this premium quality version, with minimal impact to the boat’s final cost.

The 13″ Torcello Lite features three satin silver or black anodized aluminum spokes with stylish cut-outs. The ergonomic grip is cowhide leather-textured black polyurethane with accent areas having the look of perforated leather. Its black center cap can be upgraded to chromed ABS for an additional charge. It has a plastic hub with a 3/4″ tapered bore.

Schmitt & Ongaro’s Torcello Lite has an MSRP of $89.95.

Stella is a line of polyurethane steering wheels by Schmitt & Ongaro. Known for its superior customer service, the company is the industry’s foremost maker of innovative and exceptional quality marine accessories.

Editor’s note: See the Torcello Lite and other fine Schmitt & Ongaro products at IBEX, October 4-6, Tampa, Florida, Booth 1813.

NEW STEERING WHEEL UNVEILED

BURANO WHEEL BY STELLA TURNS HEADS

The distinctively styled Burano Wheel by Stella is really turning heads. Introduced at the 2015 International Boatbuilders’ Exposition & Conference (IBEX), the bold new offering from Schmitt & Ongaro Marine instantly enhances a boat’s décor.

Ideally suited for cruisers, runabouts, ski and wakeboard boats, and upscale pontoons, the 14″ (360mm) polyurethane Burano features a durable and low-maintenance stainless steel frame construction, available with a tapered or spline hub. The grip has the look and feel of fine, hand-stitched leather. Unique polished, tubular spokes, burl wood-like accents and a contemporary center cap add to its unique, modern styling.

Designed for both refit and OEM, boatbuilders can customize the Burano to match their vessel’s styling. Rim trim and spoke accent pieces, and the center cap can be chrome, painted or hydrographic coated in a wide range of colors and combinations.

Owners can easily augment their boat’s appearance with a bold, new look by adding a Burano Wheel. Anticipated MSRP is $275.

FREE STAND LETS CUSTOMERS TAKE WHEEL FOR A TEST DRIVE

Feeling is believing—that’s why Schmitt & Ongaro is giving away a free wheel stand with the purchase of six of its steering wheels. The stands enable dealers and retailers to more easily display the Schmitt wheels. This merchandising opportunity will help distributors and dealers drive sales by putting a Schmitt & Ongaro wheel directly in the customer’s hands without leaving the showroom. The custom wheel stand is also available for purchase as a standalone item.

The superior quality of a Schmitt & Ongaro steering wheel becomes evident through both its visual appeal and its easy handling. The wheel stand encourages customers to experience the brand first hand. Whether they’re in the market for a fine stainless steel wheel or seek solid value with a polyurethane model, boat owners are sure to find a Schmitt & Ongaro product that suits their needs.

The sturdy black, powder-coated stand is fitted with four rubber feet to prevent it from moving or tipping. A mounting post with a heavy screw accommodates attachment of any standard 3/4″ tapered wheel. The wheel stand measures approximately 11″ H x 7.5″ W x 8″ D.