Polar M400 GPS Running Watch

The Polar M400 is a classic GPS running watch and activity tracker that represents a significant milestone in the history of wearable fitness technology. Originally released in 2014, it was designed for runners and outdoor enthusiasts seeking integrated GPS and 24/7 activity monitoring. The brand, Polar Electro, is a global pioneer in the industry, having invented the world's first wireless heart rate monitor in the late 1970s.

While Polar is a Finnish company with its roots and headquarters in Kempele, Finland, the manufacturing of their consumer-grade electronic devices like the M400 is primarily outsourced to facilities in China to optimize production costs and reach global markets. However, certain high-end components and R&D activities remain concentrated in Finland.

Ownership of the brand remains private. Polar Electro Oy is still an independent company, largely controlled by the descendants of its founder, Seppo Säynäjäkangas. Despite the rise of massive competitors like Garmin and Apple, Polar has maintained its independence into 2026 by focusing on high-accuracy heart rate data and specialized athletic performance metrics.