In the heart of Chicago, a city known for its towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, a different kind of craftsmanship is taking place. Oak & Oscar, a watch company founded by Chase Fancher, is making waves in the horological world with its unique blend of American design and Swiss precision. This blog post will take you on a journey through the story of Oak & Oscar, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a rising star in the watch industry.
The Birth of Oak & Oscar
Chase Fancher, a Chicago native with a passion for watches and bourbon, founded Oak & Oscar in 2015. The company’s name is a clever combination of Fancher’s two loves: “Oak” refers to the wood used to age bourbon, while “Oscar” is the name of Fancher’s beloved dog. This blend of personal touches and attention to detail would come to define the brand’s spirit.
Fancher’s journey into watchmaking wasn’t a straight path. Before launching Oak & Oscar, he spent years learning about the watch industry and building relationships with suppliers and craftsmen. This deliberate approach allowed him to create a solid foundation for his brand, ensuring that when Oak & Oscar finally launched, it would be with a bang.
The First Tick: The Burnham
Oak & Oscar’s debut watch, the Burnham, hit the market in 2015. Named after Daniel Burnham, the famous Chicago architect known for his quote “Make no little plans,” the Burnham set the tone for Oak & Oscar’s design philosophy. This time-and-date watch featured a sandwich dial, a hallmark of Oak & Oscar’s designs, and showcased the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to quality
The Burnham was an instant hit, selling out quickly and earning praise from watch enthusiasts and critics alike. Its success proved that there was indeed a market for American-designed watches with a focus on quality and craftsmanship.
Growing Roots in the Windy City
While many watch brands choose to set up shop in traditional watchmaking hubs like Switzerland or Germany, Oak & Oscar proudly calls Chicago home. The company’s headquarters serves as both an office and a workshop, where the team conducts quality control, regulation, and testing on all their watches.
This Chicago base allows Oak & Oscar to maintain a close connection with its American roots while still sourcing components from around the world. It’s a unique approach that sets the brand apart in the crowded watch market.
The Oak & Oscar Difference
What makes Oak & Oscar stand out in a sea of watch brands? Let’s explore some of the key factors that contribute to the company’s growing success:
American Design, Global Craftsmanship
While Oak & Oscar proudly designs its watches in Chicago, the company takes a global approach to manufacturing. Components are sourced from various countries, including Switzerland, China, Singapore, France, and the United States. This allows Oak & Oscar to combine the best of American design with international expertise in watchmaking.
Attention to Detail
One of Oak & Oscar’s defining characteristics is its meticulous attention to detail. From the sandwich dials to the unique “eclipse” feature where the counterbalance logo on the seconds hand aligns with a logo on the dial once a minute, every aspect of an Oak & Oscar watch is carefully considered.
In 2019, Oak&Oscar teamed up with Wilson Sporting Goods. Notice the home plate at the 12 position
Oak&Oscar designed a watch for the US curling team featuring an actual curling stone!
Limited Releases
Unlike some brands that flood the market with new models, Oak & Oscar takes a more measured approach. The company typically releases one solid new watch per year, sometimes accompanied by one or two small-batch limited production pieces. This strategy ensures that each release maintains the brand’s high standards of quality and design.
A Personal Touch
Oak & Oscar doesn’t just sell watches; it creates a community. Fancher views his customers not as mere buyers but as owners who become part of the Oak & Oscar family. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty among Oak & Oscar enthusiasts
The Oak & Oscar Collection
Over the years, Oak & Oscar has expanded its collection to include several notable models:
The Humboldt GMT ($1,975-$2,175)
Introduced in 2018, the Humboldt was Oak & Oscar’s first serial-production watch. It has since become a cornerstone of the brand’s collection, epitomizing Oak & Oscar’s design language and commitment to quality.
Posz Perspective: The Humboldt is like discovering a hidden gem in the bustling streets of Chicago. It’s a watch that exudes a quiet confidence, with its anti-magnetic properties and subtle design details like the sandwich dial and unique orange second hand. I remember the first time I strapped it on; it felt like slipping into a perfectly tailored suit. The lume, while not the brightest, adds to its understated charm, making it a reliable companion for both day and night. For me, the Humboldt is more than just a watch—it’s a testament to Oak & Oscar’s dedication to creating pieces that resonate with enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtful design and practical features
The Olmsted Field ($1,575-$1,775)
Named after Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of landscape architecture, the Olmsted is Oak & Oscar’s field watch. It showcases the brand’s ability to create functional yet stylish timepieces.
Posz Perspective: The Olmsted feels like an old friend—comfortable, reliable, and always ready for an adventure. Its 38mm case fits snugly on the wrist, reminiscent of slipping into your favorite pair of jeans. The sandwich dial and subtle orange accents give it a distinctive flair that stands out without shouting for attention. I love how the watch melds to my wrist, offering both style and substance with its robust construction and thoughtful design elements. The Olmsted is perfect for those who value functionality wrapped in an effortlessly cool package
The Atwood Chronograph ($2,450-$2,650)
The Oak & Oscar Atwood is a beautifully crafted chronograph that strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern functionality.
Posz Perspective: The Atwood Chronograph is like stumbling upon a hidden gem in a bustling city – unexpected, yet instantly captivating. Its 39mm case nestles perfectly on the wrist, a refreshing departure from the oversized trend, while the sandwich dial adds depth and character that reveals itself in different lights. The manual-wind movement offers a daily ritual that connects you intimately with the watch, though some might miss the convenience of automatic winding. Despite its modest 50m water resistance, the Atwood’s overall quality and attention to detail make it a standout piece that feels like a love letter to horology, crafted for those who truly appreciate the art of watchmaking.
Made in America: Oak & Oscar’s Commitment to Local Craftsmanship
While Oak & Oscar’s watches are assembled in Switzerland, the company maintains a strong commitment to American craftsmanship. This is particularly evident in their accessories and packaging:
American-Made Watch Straps ($35-125)
Oak & Oscar partners with local artisans and the oldest continuously running tannery in the United States to produce its premium leather watch straps. This commitment to American craftsmanship extends to their canvas straps as well, which are designed to withstand all kinds of outdoor conditions
Posz Perspective: The Horween leather straps from Oak & Oscar are akin to slipping into a pair of well-crafted leather shoes—comfortable, stylish, and built to last. Crafted by skilled artisans, these straps have a rich texture and subtle sheen that only gets better with age. I recall the first time I swapped out my watch strap for one of these; it was like giving my watch a new lease on life. While some might wish for more color options, the classic hues offer versatility that complements any wardrobe. These straps are more than just functional; they’re an embodiment of timeless style and craftsmanship.
Chicago-Made Watch Wallets
Instead of using traditional watch boxes, Oak & Oscar ships its timepieces in custom watch wallets made in Chicago. This unique approach not only supports local craftsmen but also provides a more practical and environmentally friendly packaging solution.
Posz Perspective: The Oak & Oscar watch wallet is like a trusty travel companion that combines practicality with a touch of elegance. Made from Horween leather and lined with German wool felt, it feels luxurious yet durable, providing a safe haven for my watches on the go. I remember the first time I used it; it was like discovering a hidden pocket in your favorite jacket—unexpectedly delightful and incredibly useful. While some might find the wool lining an unusual choice, I appreciate its protective qualities and the tactile experience it offers. This wallet isn’t just an accessory; it’s a testament to Oak & Oscar’s commitment to quality and thoughtful design.
Assembly and Quality Control in Chicago
While the main assembly of Oak & Oscar watches takes place in Switzerland, the company performs its own quality control, regulation, and testing at its Chicago office. Small-batch production is also assembled in Chicago, allowing for greater control over the final product.
The Future of Oak & Oscar
As Oak & Oscar continues to grow, Fancher and his team have ambitious plans for the future:
Expanding Capabilities
Oak & Oscar has brought on board a certified watchmaker, a rare move for a U.S. microbrand. This addition to the team opens up possibilities for more technically complex timepieces in the future.
In-House Production
The company is exploring ways to increase its in-house production capabilities. They’re already using a lathe to handcraft select bezels and components, with plans to potentially extend to gear cutting and wheel fabrication.
Higher-End Offerings
As the brand evolves, Fancher envisions creating more intricate, in-house tailored watches with custom complications. This could lead to higher-end offerings that showcase even deeper levels of design and craftsmanship.
Conclusion:
As someone who genuinely appreciates the charm and creativity of small brands, Oak & Oscar holds a special place in my heart, it’s not about being revolutionary; it’s about the unique stories and personal touches that make each watch feel like a piece of art. Oak & Oscar embodies this spirit perfectly, offering timepieces that reflect a thoughtful blend of American design and global craftsmanship.
What draws me to Oak & Oscar is their commitment to quality and the way they infuse personal stories into their designs. Each watch tells a tale—not just of time, but of the passion and dedication behind its creation. The attention to detail, from the sandwich dials to the Chicago-made watch wallets, speaks volumes about their dedication to craftsmanship.
For those who appreciate the nuances of small brands and their unique take on design, Oak & Oscar is a delightful discovery. It’s a brand that doesn’t just sell watches; it invites you into a community where every piece has a story and every owner becomes part of that narrative.
