Pocket Watches

Personalized pocket watches are perfect gifts for both the executive in the boardroom and the best man at a wedding. You can add initials, a name, or special words to make the gift as unique as the person you are giving it to. Although once considered a men’s watch, the pocket watch is now worn by both men and women.

Among collectors of clocks and watches, pocket watches are probably the most common collection item. The pocket watch, or portable clock, originated around the 16th Century, with the smaller models meant for wear around the neck. By the 17th Century, the first genuinely usable pocket watches with verge escapements emerged.

For the average collector, clocks and watches from the early 18th century – or those modeled on the watches of that time period – are the most prized. During this time, beautiful and decorative pocket watch styles appeared in their familiar form with verge escapement and spiral spring balance.

The watchcases are composed of brass, usually gilded in silver or gold. Enamel, pearls, and precious stones are a common decoration. Pocket watches usually require a watch fob to attach the watch to the inside of your jacket or pants pocket. A watch fob is a simple gold or silver chain that attaches to the watch at one end, and uses a simple clip which attaches to your pocket.