Oak & Oscar Watch Picture Gallery-Oak & Oscar Men’s and Women’s Watches.
Oak & Oscar is a Chicago-based independent watch brand founded in 2015 by Chase Fancher. The company is known for producing limited-production, Swiss-powered mechanical watches with a distinct American design sensibility. Oak & Oscar has built its identity around thoughtful craftsmanship, legibility, and a touch of Midwestern practicality, all while cultivating a strong enthusiast community.
Key Characteristics
- Design Philosophy: Clean, modern tool-watch aesthetics with a focus on legibility and subtle details—such as sandwich dials, custom typography, and unique case backs.
- Movements: Swiss-made mechanical movements (automatic and manual wind), typically from ETA or Sellita, modified and regulated in the U.S.
- Production: Each model is produced in limited quantities, making them collectible within the microbrand scene.
- Community Focus: The brand regularly engages with collectors, hosts events, and collaborates with charities—particularly dog rescues, a nod to the company’s mascot, a dog named Oscar.
Notable Models
- The Burnham (2015) – The debut model, a 42mm GMT watch named after urban planner Daniel Burnham, reflecting Chicago heritage.
- The Sandford – A GMT with travel functionality and refined proportions.
- The Humboldt – A robust 40mm field/diver hybrid watch with 20 ATM water resistance, designed for adventure.
- The Olmsted – A versatile 38mm field watch named after landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, known for creating Central Park and Chicago’s park system.
- Jackson Chronograph – A manual-wind flyback chronograph using the Eterna Caliber 39 base.
Brand Culture
Oak & Oscar emphasizes transparency and service, offering personal customer support and even sending hand-written thank-you notes with purchases. Their watches often include custom leather straps from U.S. makers, and packaging is designed for reuse, reinforcing a sense of quality and sustainability.
Fun Fact
The brand’s name comes from two sources: “Oak” symbolizes strength and longevity, while “Oscar” is the founder’s dog—who also became part of the company’s friendly image.