Our Proud 70 Year Adventure
History
1945
The Start of Dakota
After WWII, Air Force veteran Albert Cooper started renting counter spaces in department stores to service watches and jewelry. He continued opening watch fixery shops throughout the next three decades, growing a solid following of loyal customers.
2005
Becoming a Brand
The Coopers’ created one series of products around Martin’s passion for fly-fishing. These watches were innovative and made to attach to a belt loop, fishing vest or pack. They were developed in a way that created room for simple tools and gear. Interest from the outdoor market grew! So much so, that the watch retailer added wholesale to its business model and supplied their watch line to fishing shops and outdoor retailers throughout the USA. Dakota was officially launched as a stand-alone brand.
1980
24/7 Support
Sons Martin and David Cooper joined the business, finding the one thing that stood out the most: watches. It was then that the main focus shifted to timepiece design, importing and sales. The duo grew to 225 US based retail stores known for excellent, friendly service and large selection of watches.
Today
Creating a Legacy
Today, Coopers' retail stores can still be found throughout the USA, under the name Dakota Watch Company. They continue to innovate and create new watch designs in men’s and ladies’ fashion and the outdoors. Over the last 20 years, Dakota has become a leader in outdoor watches and a brand known for quality. Dakota's strong care for their customers generates from their retail roots. The Dakota brand can be found in outdoor and workwear shops across all seven continents and has a global fan following.
The Designer
Marty Cooper, the perfect mix of product designer, entrepreneur, and outdoors enthusiast, he became obsessed with his customers and the process of building quality watches. He built a brand around customer feedback, comments, and suggestions. He named the brand Dakota due to its American heritage and the outdoor emphasis of the western states.
