Chase, founder of Oak & Oscar, was in town on July 26 and invited the #LAWatchGang to check out his very first model, the Burnham. For those unfamiliar with the brand, Oak & Oscar is a relatively new American brand (Chicago based) that in a very short time has made a big impression in the watch community with the Burnham model… and rightfully so. The watch is unique and attractive.

The 42mm case looks great on my 6.5" wrist.

The name of the brand comes from Chase’s other passions, bourbon and his dog Oscar. How many people can say that they have combined three of their biggest passions into one single product? And to make things even cooler, a portion of the profits is dedicated to the organization One Tail at a Time, a local Chicago rescue group for dogs in need. So how much will this serialized Limited Edition timepiece set you back for? Retail price is $1,650 but you can get it for $1,450 if you pre-order now. Only 300 pieces will be produced.

The Horween leather strap is perfect for this watch.

What do I like about the watch?
The most interesting part of the watch for me has to be the originality of the dial design… it looks like nothing I have ever seen before. And that is no easy task. The sandwich dial, font choice, dial color, orange sweeping second hand, Horween leather strap, open case back, customized rotor, case size (42mm), leather travel case instead of your typical useless watch box, and many other details just work. It is apparent that a lot of thought has been put into this watch. Thank you for using the Soprod A10 Swiss movement (and decently decorated I might add) instead of a Miyota… Not that Miyotas or Japanese movements are not reputable, but I do enjoy a Swiss movement a lot more. And finally, I also appreciate the fact that this watch is designed and assembled in the good old USA.

Love the sandwich dial and orange sweeping second hand.

A Soprod A10 Swiss movement powers the Burnham.

What do I dislike about the watch?
As original as the design is, it is not for everyone. It either sings to you or it does not. I like the overall simplistic and tool watch appeal, but I do feel that there is something missing… something to retain that initial excitement of a new watch for years to come. I worry that I might find it unexciting after some time. The Horween leather strap matches the watch perfectly and it is incredibly soft, but the holes on the straps could start higher on the strap. For the collector with a smaller wrist, the tang buckle sits too far to the right even when you are in the first hole.

What is your take on the Oak & Oscar Burnham?