Chicago, October 2, 2019— Wilson Sporting Goods, the world’s leading brand in high-performance baseball gear, announced today a collaboration with new-era watch brand Oak & Oscar. The two Chicago-based companies have released a limited-edition timepiece and an exclusive A2000® 1787 ball glove. Both products are designed for glove and watch collectors alike. A signed set of the products, autographed by Chicago Cubs star Kyle Schwarber, will be auctioned to benefit Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes charity.

“This collaboration perfectly captures both companies’ appreciation and dedication to quality materials, unyielding craftsmanship and a love of America’s pastime,” said Michael Markovich, Global Commercial Director for Wilson Baseball. “The watch and glove are of the highest quality, so – as Chicagoans – we’re thrilled to contribute a set for Kyle Schwarber’s upcoming fundraiser.”

The collections A2000 1787 features flawless Copper Pro Stock Leather™ and Navy SuperSkin™, an innovative leather material designed by Wilson glove craftsmen. The glove’s timeless look comes together with a palm stamp that features the logos of both Wilson and Oak & Oscar. The two brands are linked together through the iconic four stars from the Chicago city flag.

Kyle Schwarber, Chicago Cubs outfielder and Wilson Advisory Staff member, wore and signed one of the collaboration’s gloves and watchbands during a recent photoshoot at Wrigley Field. Both signed pieces will be auctioned off at Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes Golf and Gala event in Orlando in November.

Neighborhood Heroes was created by Schwarber in 2017 to honor first responders. As the son of a decorated police chief and part of a family with a long history of first responders, he recognized the unique sacrifice these public servants and their families make. Neighborhood Heroes was founded to commend first responders by honoring their heroism, courage and devotion to duty.

“The A2000 1787 glove and Oak & Oscar watch are very high end, so they’ll help us raise a lot of money to recognize the neighborhood heroes who work so hard to keep our communities safe,” Schwarber said. “I’m grateful to have these items for our fundraiser.”

The limited-edition Ashland and A2000 1787 are both available for purchase on wilson.com. A package featuring both products is available for $2,150. The watch is available individually for $1,850.

To learn more about Kyle Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes and the upcoming Golf and Gala Event, visit schwarbersheroes.org.

   

About Wilson Sporting Goods: Chicago-based Wilson Sporting Goods Co., a division of Amer Sports Corporation, is the largest baseball and softball equipment company in the world today. In these sports, Wilson manufactures high-performance gloves, bats, uniforms, apparel, protective gear, accessories, and player-development equipment through its Wilson®, DeMarini®, Louisville Slugger®, EvoShield® and ATEC® brands. The company uses player insights to develop products that push equipment innovation into new territories and empower athletes at every level to perform at their best.

About Oak & Oscar: Founded in 2015, Oak & Oscar is an independent watch company based in Chicago doing good things with great people. Three guiding principles drive everything we do: to make no little plans, the belief that good people make great products, and that the details always make the design.

About Neighborhood Heroes: As a son of a decorated police chief and part of a family with a long history of first responders, Kyle Schwarber recognizes the unique sacrifice first responders and their families make. The Neighborhood Heroes campaign, launched in 2017, is designed to recognize first responders by honoring their heroism, courage and devotion to duty. Whether by visiting local agencies to provide resources and gratitude, hosting first responders at Wrigley Field or throwing his annually held Chicago Block Party, Kyle remains committed to making an impact and difference in the lives of first responders.        

Media Contacts:
Rick Redman
502.741.3362
Rick.Redman@wilson.com

Sally George
SGeorge@doeanderson.com