Since 1930, Otto Frei has supplied professional jewelers, metalsmiths, and watchmakers with bench-grade tools, equipment, and precious-metal findings. We’re a fourth-generation, family-run company based in Oakland, California.
Our story
Founded by Swiss watchmaker Otto Frei and Alice Frei in 1930, the business began as a trusted source for hard-to-find Swiss watch parts before expanding into a comprehensive catalog for jewelers and metalsmiths.
What we’re known for
- Curated, bench-grade selection from Switzerland, Germany, Italy, England, Japan, France, and the United States.
- Depth of inventory and competitive pricing.
- Knowledgeable, human support for product selection and bench-level troubleshooting.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: if something isn’t right, we’ll make it right.
Timeline
- 1929–1930 – Otto & Alice arrive in the U.S.; after Cincinnati and San Francisco, they establish in Oakland (1930).
- 1930s–1950s – A go-to watch material supplier for downtown Oakland.
- 1952 – John R. Frei joins full-time after Army Signal Corps service.
- 1967 – Merger forms Otto Frei & Jules Borel.
- 1970 – Borel & Frei opens in downtown Los Angeles.
- 1995 – Partnership concludes; the company returns to full Frei family ownership.
- 2000s–present – The fourth generation grows the catalog and digital experience.
We’re here to help
Call (800) 772-3456 or (510) 832-0355, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM PT. Our team will help you navigate products and answer technical questions.
Thank you
We’re honored to support the artistry—and precision—of jewelers and craftspeople everywhere.