Fossil is a fashion brand from the United States, founded in 1984. Its founder was Tom Kartsotis, who was living in Dallas at the time and took advice from his older brother, Kosta Kartsotis. The company was originally called Overseas Products International and started out importing mid-priced fashion watches in a retro style. In 1990 Fossil began making leather goods, so its name became known through two categories: watches and bags. Besides its own lines, Fossil also designs and produces licensed watches for other brands, such as Emporio Armani, Michael Kors, and Diesel. For secondhand buyers, this means there is a wide range of models and production periods, and it is best to learn to recognize them one by one before buying.
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Fossil began in 1984 under the name Overseas Products International. Tom Kartsotis, a former Texas A&M University student living in Dallas, started it on the advice of his older brother, Kosta, a merchandising executive at Sanger-Harris. Kosta saw a chance for large profits in importing retail goods made in the Far East, especially mid-priced fashion watches. The main product was retro-style watches. In 1990 leather goods arrived under the Fossil name, together with the Relic watch line. The company went public in 1993.
After that, Fossil expanded its watch lines. In 2001 it bought Zodiac Watches, a Swiss brand dating back to 1882, and redesigned it in a modern 1970s-style retro look for a higher segment. Michele Watch followed in 2004, and Skagen Designs in 2012. In early 2013 Fossil launched the "Fossil Swiss" line, made in Switzerland. Its design studio is in Biel, Switzerland, while its factory is in China.
Fossil is also known for licensed watches. In 2001 it worked with the designer Philippe Starck, and then made watches for names such as Burberry, DKNY, Karl Lagerfeld, Kate Spade, and Adidas. The company also designs its own watch movements under the Fossil Twist Line. In the smartwatch era, Fossil bought Misfit in 2015, but in January 2024 it announced that it would leave the smartwatch business.
- Relic: a watch line introduced in 1990, at the same time as the leather goods carrying the Fossil label.
- Fossil Twist Line: a watch line with movements designed and made by Fossil itself.
- Fossil Swiss: a more expensive watch line launched in early 2013 and made in Switzerland.
- Starck with Fossil: a collection from the collaboration with Philippe Starck since 2001, with a very modern design.
Fossil is currently empty. Preloved pieces arrive one at a time, check again after the next drop.
What we check before listing
For watches, we look at the condition of the glass, the bezel, and the back of the case, then make sure the movement runs and the crown works normally. Because Fossil makes many licensed watches, we compare the brand name on the dial with the writing on the case and strap. For smartwatch models, we check whether the device turns on, can be charged, and has a normal screen, since Fossil has left this business as of 2024. On bags, we examine the stitching at the corners and handles, the inside leather or lining, and the sturdiness of the zipper and hardware. We also pay attention to how neat the label and logo print are. This describes what we usually look at, not a guarantee of authenticity.
Caring for it
Store leather bags in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight, and stuff them with paper to keep their shape. Clean them with a soft, dry cloth, and avoid exposing them to too much water. Watches should be kept away from water and moisture, especially if the strap is leather. Wipe the case and strap after wearing, and replace the battery at a watch service shop once it weakens.
FAQ
Which country does Fossil come from?
Fossil is an American brand, founded in 1984 by Tom Kartsotis. The company's office is now in Richardson, Texas. Its watch design studio is in Biel, Switzerland, and its factory is in China.
Are all Fossil watches made in Switzerland?
No. The Fossil Swiss line, made in Switzerland, was only launched in 2013. Most of Fossil's production is done at facilities in China, so check the markings on the watch in question.
Are watches from other brands, such as Michael Kors or Emporio Armani, made by Fossil?
Fossil designs, produces, and distributes licensed watches for a number of those brands. So it is normal for a watch with another brand's logo to be made by Fossil Group.
Is a secondhand Fossil smartwatch still worth buying?
Fossil announced in January 2024 that it was leaving the smartwatch business. If you are interested, make sure the device turns on, charges, and connects properly. Also consider that no new models will be released.
References
Facts summarised and rewritten from the sources above (CC BY-SA licence).