In today’s technological driven society, the pocket watch might seem somewhat old fashioned. However, with its unique blend of timeless elegance and contemporary functionality, we believe it still deserves a place in the watch world.

The success of TV drama Peaky Blinders has certainly shone a light on 1920’s fashion. Which got us thinking …. rather than condemn it to the past, maybe it’s time for a pocket watch revival?

Let’s briefly step back in time to see where it all began.

Clocks small enough to be worn on the person date back to the early 16th century – often worn as pendants by men and women. Next came the pocket watch, which were both expensive and painstaking to produce. As a result, they were mostly worn by men and seen as symbols of wealth and status. 

As technical advances were made and designs simplified, the pocket watch evolved from a luxury to a necessity. The cost dropped and they became a functional apparatus. One might evoke images of a train conductor checking his pocket watch and shouting “All Aboard!”

However, the pocket watch remained predominantly for men until early in the 20th century as the wristwatch was considered too feminine and unmanly. They began to be superseded by wristwatches around the time of World War I. Function winning over fashion as officers in the field realised a watch worn on the wrist was more easily accessed than one kept in a pocket.

At Michlmayr we love bringing old watches back to their best and very much enjoy the craftmanship of the bygone era. We thought we’d share a few reasons why we think they deserve a revival:

A pocket watch doesn’t have to be for everyday. Like a favourite hat, tie or belt – it can add a touch of vintage class to a formal occasion or can simply be worn casually to make a fashion statement.

They make a great alternative gift idea for many occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, Father’s Days, weddings, and retirements.

It’s more unusual than a watch and feels like you’re giving a gift of horological history. Plus, because it’s larger it’s perfect for engraving a special message.

A pocket watch that has been passed down the generations becomes a sentimental keepsake. It becomes a significant carrier of family history and memories.

They can reflect so much horological history, that most serious collector’s will own at least one. Even if never worn, they are objects of admiration, intrigue and sometimes value.

Many popular watch brands still produce modern pocket watches. Alternatively if you’re looking for something a bit more vintage, try searching the pre owned market for brands such as Longines. You might pick up a bargain and we’d be happy to take a look and clean it up for you.

Tissot Savonette £300

Woodford Double Hunter Skeleton Back £290

 

 

Tissot Bridgeport £1,210

Hamilton Railroad £1,295


Omega Olympic Pocket Watch 1932 Rattrapante Chronograph £112,000

We are certainly seeing an increase in repairs and servicing and offer a full pocket watch restoration service. Make sure you keep yours free of dust and moisture and remember if you want to hand it down to the next generation, get it serviced every few years.

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