Introducing: The Oak & Oscar Jackson Big Eye

June 29, 2021

Based out of Chicago and holding a place among many enthusiasts favorite microbrands, Oak & Oscar has announced a new limited edition version of its Jackson hand-wound chronograph C the Jackson Big Eye. Like all of Oak & Oscars creations, the Jackson Big Eye is meticulously detailed, made in limited supply, and more than ready for everyday wear. Tucked inside the Jackson Big Eyes 40mm steel case, Oak & Oscar has opted for a date-free version of the movement from the original Jackson, released in 2017. Employing the Eterna Caliber 3907M with column wheel-equipped flyback functionality, a stacked chronograph sundial, and 60-hours of power reserve, the Big Eye is easily distinguished from its older brother. Given that stacked subdial C in which the three oclock subdial has two hands, one for elapsed minutes and one for elapsed hours C a Big Eye implementation is more than just a style choice. It also makes the chronograph measure, which tops out at 12 hours, much easier to read at a glance. So-called Big Eye chronographs (named so for their asymmetrical sundial layout) rose to popularity in the 60s and 70s and can be found on watches that pull inspiration from the world of aviation (like this Longines), sailing (like this vintage Gallet) and motorsports (like the Universal Geneve in this group). With a lug-to-lug of 46.4mm and a total thickness of 14.5mm to the top of the double-domed (and AR coated) sapphire crystal, the Jackson Big Eye has lost none of the wearability of its forebearer C and the Big Eye layout is perhaps even more casual and sporty than the original Jackson, which was limited to some 400 units spanning three colorways. Each Jackson Big Eye is assembled in the U.S. at the brands Chicago HQ, and the final result is a sporty but subtle chronograph with a very light touch when it comes to the application of vintage effects. The lume is blue Super-LumiNova BGW9, the lugs are 20mm wide, and the Jackson Big Eye uses a traditional two-pusher chronograph layout. Additionally, water resistance is 50 meters and the Jackson Big Eye has a sapphire display case back. Looking closely at the dial, notice the warm grey tone for the tachymeter scale, the orange accents on the minute track, and the 1/3rd orange divisions on both subdials. Focusing specifically on the large Big Eye register at three oclock, dont miss the alternating grey accents for each 1/6th division and internal 12-hour markings for the hour hand (which nests beneath the minutes hand when reset to zero). With production of the Big Eye limited to just 50 pieces, it is considerably rarer than the already-limited original Jackson, and the $3,150 price tag includes two Horween leather straps, a Horween leather watch wallet, a strap-changing tool, and a two-year warranty. As was established by the original Jackson, a portion of the profits from the Jackson Big Eye will be donated to One Tail At A Time (a Chicago-local dog rescue organization). What We Think Were always more than happy to see a new take on the funky and asymmetrical Big Eye format, and Oak & Oscar devotees have been waiting to see what would come next from the midwest brand. Despite being a very limited creation, the Jackson Big Eye is a strong example of Oak & Oscars core competency for balanced design, fine details, and thoughtful packaging. As a follow-up to the successful Jackson, Oak & Oscars Big Eye iteration looks great, and packs an entirely useful and enthusiast-spec chronograph function. And, assuming youre quick enough, all 50 are available to ship immediately. The Basics Brand: Oak & OscarModel: Jackson Big EyeDiameter: 40mmThickness: 14.5mmLug to lug: 46.4mmCase Material: SteelDial Color: GreyIndexes: AppliedLume: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersStrap/Bracelet: Includes a pair of Horween leather straps The Movement Caliber: Eterna caliber 3907 MFunctions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, 12-hour flyback chronographPower Reserve: 60 hoursWinding: Hand-woundFrequency: 28,800vphJewels: 25Additional Details: Column wheel and a stacked chronograph subdial with both minutes and hours. Pricing & Availability Price: $3,150Availability: Starting Jun 29th, while supply lasts. Limited Edition: 50 piecesFor more, click here.