Pocket Watches

Pocket watch history spans from the 1500s through to modern society. One of the earliest mentions of the antique pocket watch dates back to 1462- in a letter written by an Italian clock-maker mentioning that his pocket watch was superior to that of the Duke of Modena.

Spring-operated clocks were crafted at the end of the 16th century in Germany and Italy. German watch-maker, Peter Henlein, is credited for this, as he brought his spring-loaded watch designs to Britain in the 1520s. By the mid-16th century, pocket watches were manufactured across much of Europe. At this time, the minute hand was tentatively used along with an increased number of wheels, introduced through Henlein’s inner spring design.

At this time, jewels – usually rubies – were used as bearings within the watch, as they made the time pieces run more smoothly. Adding to their value, pocket watches at this time were largely crafted from precious metals such as gold.

Pocket watches were the most common watch type from the 16th century until wrist watches became more practical in the wake of World War I in the early 20th century. The development of wrist watches began from the fact that pocket watches were impractical for combat, indirectly creating the trench watch. It is not known who specifically was the first to create the trench watch; the first series of watches that were produced were for the German navy in 1880. Until the 1930s, they were called ‘wristlets’, which was later replaced with the name ‘wrist watch’.

Pocket watches are incredibly versatile and can be styled in numerous ways- it is simply a matter of choosing the right for you.

The Neck
Head back to the origins of the pocket watch by wearing yours on a chain placed around your neck. This is the perfect way to display an heirloom pocket watch, or a particularly intricate piece.

Waistcoat
Recent fashions have seen the waistcoat surge in popularity. This is perhaps one of the most iconic ways of wearing a pocket watch. For this look you will need a watch chain (Albert or T bar styles are popular) and a watch that is small enough to fit in your pocket. Simply thread your chain through a button hole and check that it is secure, then place the watch into your pocket.