The pocket watch might seem somewhat old fashioned and antiquated in today’s technological society. 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.
Brief History
Clocks small enough to be worn on the person were created in the early 16th century. The earliest watches were often worn as pendants by men and women. The next generation of wearable watches – pocket watches, were most often worn by men and were symbols of wealth and status because they were very expensive and painstaking to produce.
As technical advances were made and designs simplified, the pocket watch evolved from a luxury to a necessity. For many people, it evokes a romantic vision of a steam filled platform with a train conductor checking his pocket watch and shouting “All Aboard!”
Until early in the 20th century though, the pocket watch remained predominantly for men. The wristwatch was considered too feminine and unmanly. In men’s fashions, they began to be superseded by wristwatches around the time of World War I. In the midst of action, officers in the field realised a watch worn on the wrist was more easily accessed than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:
Fashion over Function
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.
Timeless Gifting
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.
Generational History
A pocket watch that has been passed down the generations becomes a sentimental keepsake. It becomes a significant carrier of family history and memories.
Collector’s Choice
Pocket watches 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.
Modern Pocket Watches
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 your pocket watch free of dust and moisture and remember if you want to hand it down to the next generation, get it serviced every few years.
