Fossil
- Founded
- 1984
- Based in
- Richardson, Texas, USA
- In our catalog
- 3 watches from $135 to $230
Fossil made the watch a fashion accessory you could change with your outfit. Its watches are inexpensive, styled with a nod to mid-century America and sold in the tin boxes that became the brand's trademark. It also makes watches for many fashion houses under license.
History
Tom Kartsotis started Fossil in Texas in 1984 with the idea of selling affordable, stylish watches made in Asia. Retro designs and tin packaging helped it stand out, and the brand grew quickly through department stores. Fossil later took on licenses to make watches for fashion brands like Armani Exchange, Michael Kors and Diesel, and bought Skagen and Zodiac.
Fossil moved into smartwatches in the mid-2010s, but exited that market in 2024. Its core business remains fashion watches, leather goods and jewelry.
Signature models
- Grant Chronograph: A classic, inexpensive chronograph with Roman numerals and a leather strap.
- Machine Chronograph: A bigger, bolder sports-style chronograph.
- Everett Automatic: A mechanical watch with an open-heart dial at a fashion-watch price.
What it's known for
Fossil watches use Japanese or Chinese movements and are made in large volumes. They're popular as gifts. The brand is a fashion brand first, so expect design rather than horological depth.
Price and positioning
Most Fossil watches cost $100 to $250. For a similar price you can get mechanical Seikos, Orients or Timexes with more watchmaking heritage, but Fossil's styles are easy to wear and easy to find.
Fossil watches in our library
- Fossil Grant Chronograph ($135 to $180)
- Fossil Machine Chronograph ($135 to $185)
- Fossil Everett Automatic ($190 to $230)