“As I did more and more research I noticed a large gap in the market for watches in an affordable accessory price range,” he said.
“Everything listed in the $80 to $150 range used inferior components, and had a large rate of returns and faults. I wanted to make a watch for the people who couldn’t necessarily afford to spend half of their pay check on an accessory they may only wear with one or two outfits.”
It is the high quality and attention to detail that Chris believes sets Oak & Jackal apart from other accessory brands.
“The rear of each watch is engraved with a custom mural created by Melbourne artist Chris Costa, an area of watches I felt was quite often overlooked as it is not often viewed. I wanted the whole watch to be a piece of art, not just the front.”
Ultimately, he describes his range as versatile, wearable and simple.
“Oak & Jackal is the watch for people who don’t wear watches. A minimalistic, uncomplicated face that is easy to dress up or dress down with.”
The brand’s newest collection features a mesh strap, inspired, Chris says, by his vegan customers.
“I had originally introduced a synthetic leather band also for anyone who didn’t utilise animal products.
“It meant that people from both demographics of my customer base could happily wear the same watch without any compromise.”
Oak & Jackal isn’t Chris’ sole venture; he also tours part time with his band, on top of working a full-time job. “Time is a limited commodity for myself. Locking time away each week to focus on and grow my brand can be difficult and stressful.”
However, he says that seeing people enjoying his products makes the hard work worth it.
“Seeing customers wearing my watch out in public, not just on the internet, but even noticing people in a shopping centre or cafe branded with my piece makes me incredibly happy.”
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