Introduction
In the crowded landscape of microbrand horology, few names command the quiet respect of Oak & Oscar. Founded by Chase Fancher in 2015, the Chicago-based brand has carved a niche for itself by producing thoughtfully designed, American-inspired timepieces that prioritize legibility, durability, and a sense of place. The Olmsted collection—named after Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture—has been a cornerstone of the brand's identity since its debut in 2016. The original 40mm Olmsted was a hit among field watch enthusiasts, but it was the 38mm variant, released in 2020, that truly captured the hearts of collectors seeking a more versatile, wrist-friendly proportion.
The Olmsted 38 is not merely a downsized version of its predecessor; it is a reimagining of the field watch archetype for the modern collector. With a case diameter of 38mm, a thickness of 11.5mm, and a lug-to-lug of 46mm, it sits on the wrist with a composure that belies its rugged intentions. The watch is powered by the Soprod A10-2 automatic movement, a Swiss workhorse known for its reliability and smooth winding. Finished with a subtle perlage and blued screws, the movement is visible through a sapphire display caseback—a rare treat in a tool watch. The Olmsted 38 is a testament to Oak & Oscar's philosophy: that a watch can be both a daily companion and a conversation piece, without shouting for attention.
Brand History
Oak & Oscar was founded in 2015 by Chase Fancher, a former advertising executive who turned his passion for watches into a full-time endeavor. Based in Chicago, the brand draws inspiration from American history, architecture, and aviation. The name itself is a nod to the oak tree (strength) and the Oscar statuette (excellence). The Olmsted collection, named after Frederick Law Olmsted, reflects the brand's commitment to thoughtful design and enduring quality. Oak & Oscar has built a loyal following through direct-to-consumer sales, limited production runs, and a strong community presence.
Movement
At the heart of the Olmsted 38 beats the Soprod A10-2, a Swiss automatic movement that represents a significant upgrade over the ETA 2824-2 commonly found in this price segment. The A10-2 is thinner (3.60mm) and features a free-sprung balance, which improves stability and accuracy. The movement is decorated with circular perlage on the mainplate, Geneva stripes on the rotor, and blued screws—a level of finishing that is rare at the $1,350 price point. The power reserve is 42 hours, which is adequate for daily wear but falls short of the 70+ hours offered by some modern calibers. The date complication is quick-set via the crown, and the movement hacks for precise time setting.
Case and Design
The 38mm case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces. The bezel is slim and polished, framing the dial without overwhelming it. The crown is signed with the Oak & Oscar 'O' logo and screws down to ensure 100 meters of water resistance. The sapphire crystal is domed and features an anti-reflective coating on the underside, reducing glare while maintaining clarity. The display caseback is also sapphire, allowing a clear view of the movement. The lugs are drilled for spring bars, making strap changes easy, and the 20mm lug width offers plenty of aftermarket options.
Dial and Lume
The dial of the Olmsted 38 is a study in legibility. Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 are applied and filled with Super-LumiNova C3, as are the hour markers and hands. The minute track is printed in crisp black, and the date window at 4:30 is discreetly integrated. The seconds hand features an orange tip, adding a subtle pop of color. The lume is bright and evenly applied, though it fades after a few hours—typical for C3. The dial is available in black, blue, and green, each with a slightly different character. The black dial is the most classic, while the blue and green offer a more contemporary feel.
Strap and Wearability
The Olmsted 38 comes standard with a Horween Chromexcel leather strap, made in Chicago. The leather is thick yet supple, and it develops a beautiful patina over time. The strap is fitted with a signed pin buckle and quick-release spring bars. A NATO strap option is also available for those who prefer a more casual look. On the wrist, the watch wears comfortably due to its compact dimensions and lightweight construction. The 46mm lug-to-lug ensures it doesn't overhang on smaller wrists, while the 11.5mm thickness allows it to slide easily under a shirt cuff. It is equally at home in the office, on a hike, or at a dinner party.
Accuracy and Performance
Over a week of daily wear, the Olmsted 38 averaged +4.2 seconds per day, with a maximum deviation of +8 seconds and a minimum of -3 seconds. The Soprod A10-2 is not COSC-certified, but its performance is well within the brand's stated tolerance of -5/+15 seconds per day. The movement is adjusted in three positions, and the free-sprung balance contributes to its stability. The winding rotor is smooth and quiet, and the crown action is precise. For a field watch, this level of accuracy is more than sufficient.
Comparisons
In the same price range, the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm offers a hand-wound movement and a more utilitarian aesthetic, while the Seiko Alpinist SPB121 provides a more ornate dial and a 6R35 movement with 70-hour power reserve. The Sinn 556 I is a German alternative with a similar tool-watch ethos and a slightly larger case. The Olmsted 38 distinguishes itself with its superior movement finishing, premium strap, and American heritage. It is a more refined take on the field watch, appealing to collectors who value craftsmanship as much as functionality.
Investment Value
With an MSRP of $1,350, the Olmsted 38 offers strong value for a Swiss-made, hand-finished watch. Pre-owned prices range from $900 to $1,200, reflecting a stable market. Limited-edition variants may appreciate slightly, but the standard models are best viewed as a purchase for enjoyment rather than investment. The watch is not a collector's item in the traditional sense, but its quality and design ensure it will remain a desirable piece for years to come.
Service and Maintenance
Oak & Oscar recommends servicing the Olmsted 38 every five years. The cost of a full service is approximately $350, which is reasonable for a Swiss automatic movement. The brand offers a two-year warranty and can recommend authorized service centers, but any competent watchmaker familiar with Soprod movements can perform the work. The movement is robust and well-supported, making maintenance straightforward.
Final Verdict
The Oak & Oscar Olmsted 38 is a masterclass in restraint and refinement. It takes the classic field watch formula and executes it with a level of detail and quality that belies its price. The 38mm case is a sweet spot for many wrists, the Soprod movement is a joy to wind and observe, and the Horween strap adds a tactile warmth that elevates the entire experience. If you are looking for a daily-wear watch that balances heritage, craftsmanship, and modern practicality, the Olmsted 38 deserves a place on your wrist.
