Antique Pocket Watches
to
84
1,314
412
201
132
104
88
56
51
1,229
566
415
352
335
423
5
3
45
882
1,005
270
185
220
1
37
212
179
98
87
24
21
11
11
6
3
2
1
1
1
207
40
28
23
18
53
39
18
13
11
to
1,902
25
964
910
Sort By
Fernando Wehrle Silver
Rose Gold Keyless Lever Minute Repeater Open Face Pocket
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Fernando Wehrle Barcelona. A Silver and Rose Gold Keyless Lever Minute Repeater Open Face Pocket Watch C1900.
Dial: The white enamel dial signed Fernando Wehrle Barcelona with Arabi...
Category
Early 20th Century Spanish Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Silver
Verge Crown Wheel Key Winding 18K Yellow Gold Ornate Pocket Watch
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Verge Crown Wheel Key Winding 18K Yellow Gold Ornate Pocket Watch
Approx. 48 mm in diameter, 18 mm thick
Stamped SH JW with English Gold Hallmarks inside the case. Date mark of F w...
Category
Mid-19th Century English Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
XIX Century Open-Face Gold Pocket Watch R. Stewart
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
XIX Century Open-face Gold Pocket Watch R. STEWART, Argyle & Buchanan Sts., Glasgow, #16044.
Beautiful 43m/1.69in gold case with a thorough ornamental floral engraving with vegetatio...
Category
Late 19th Century Scottish Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Ruby, Gold
Tiffany
Co. Yellow Gold Enamel Dial Split Seconds Chronograph
By Tiffany
Co.
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Tiffany & Co.
STYLE / REFERENCE: Split Seconds Chronograph / Pocket Watch
METAL / MATERIAL: 18 Kt. Solid Yellow Gold
DIMENSIONS: Diameter 47mm
CIRCA: 1900's
MOVEME...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Yellow Gold
Longines Heavy 18ct Gold Keyless Lever Chronograph Pocket Watch, circa 1900s
By Longines
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Longines. A Heavy 18ct Gold Keyless Lever Full Hunter Chronograph Pocket Watch C1900s.
Dial: The perfect white enamel dial fully signed Longines Anti-Magnetique with Arabic numerals...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Art Nouveau 18k Gold Diamond Pocket Watch, Fob Watch, Escasany
Located in NEWARK, GB
A truly spectacular antique Art Nouveau era, 18kt gold and Rose cut diamond pocket watch or fob watch.
A rich 18kt gold smooth polished case engraved on the reverse with a typically...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Art Nouveau Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,861 Sale Price
20% Off
Moricand
Degrange 18Kt. Yellow Gold and Enamel Open Faced Pocket Watch 1840
s
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Moricand & Degrance, Geneve
STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch
METAL / MATERIAL: 18Kt. Yellow Gold & Enamel
CIRCA / YEAR: 1830's / 40's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: ...
Category
1830s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Rare Heavy 18CT Gold Keyless Lever Independent Second Full Hunter Pocket Watch
Located in Mayfair, London, London
W. Ehrhardt. A Rare Heavy 18ct Gold Keyless Lever Independent Seconds Full Hunter Pocket Watch C1884.
Dial: The white enamel numbered Roman Dial with outer minute track subsidiary s...
Category
Late 19th Century German Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold
American Waltham Watch&co, Antique Yellow Gold Pocket Watch
Located in New York, NY
*Vintage
14k Yellow Gold
Hand winding movement
Roman numerals
Diameter: 1.5”
Weight: 49gr
Width: 12.5mm
Category
1910s Antique Pocket Watches
J.E Caldwaell
Co. Nickel Silver Oversized Pocket Watch with Enamel Dial
By J.E. Caldwell
Co.
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: J. E. Caldwell of Philadelphia
STYLE / REFERENCE: Oversized Pocket Watch or Travel Clock
METAL / MATERIAL: Nickel Silver or German Silver
CIRCA / YEAR: 1915
DIMENSI...
Category
1910s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Charles Tissot Gun Metal Silver and Gold Coin Edged Open Faced Pocket Watch
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Charles Tissot
STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch
METAL / MATERIAL: Silver and Gold with Coin Edge
CIRCA / YEAR: 1900's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 49mm
MOVEMENT / CA...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Art Nouveau Antique Pocket Watches
C.H. Meylan
Fleischmann 18k Gold Minute Repeater Double Hunter Pocket Watch
By C.H. Meylan
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
Gorgeous Vintage Double Hunter Pocket Watch by C.H. Meylan & Fleischmann
Features Minute Repeater, 35 Rubis
Dedicated Second Dial
18k Yellow Gold Case w/ Inner Glass for Movement
Mo...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Romantic Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold
Antique 14k Gold Pendant Watch, Enamel Putti
Diamonds, Switzerland, C. 1870
Located in Chatham, CA
Antique Swiss 14K yellow gold pendant watch - elaborate double hunter case with hand tooling to the front and back - hand painted enamels of putti playing 'Boules' - set with eight o...
Category
Late 19th Century Swiss Neoclassical Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Vintage Waltham 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Circa 1888 Floral Engraving
By American Waltham Watch Co.
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This rare vintage 14 karat yellow gold pocket watch by Waltham is a stunning piece of history. The luxury solid gold timepiece is made with exquisite fine details. It features a 46mm...
Category
1880s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Elgin 18k Yellow Gold Mini Hunter Pocket Watch, Size 0S
By Elgin
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
Beautiful Antique Elgin Pocket Watch w/ White Dial Including Gold Color Hands & Dedicated Second Dial
18K Yellow Gold Case w/ Intricate enamel design in center of dial
Black Roman Nu...
Category
Early 1900s American Modern Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Tiffany
Co. 18k Yellow Gold Open Face Pocket Watch
By Tiffany
Co.
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
Beautiful Antique Tiffany & Co. Pocket Watch w/ White Dial Including Blue Hands & Dedicated Second Dial
18k Gold Case
Black Roman Numerals
Case Serial # 122508
Tiffany & Co. Movement...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Modern Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Paul Ditisheim 18 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch, Solvil Original Box
By Paul Ditisheim
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This rare vintage 18 karat yellow gold pocket watch by Paul Ditisheim is a stunning piece of history. The luxury solid gold timepiece is made with exquisite fine details. It features...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Contemporary Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
John Cashmore Yellow Gold Half Quarter Repeater Keyless Lever Pocket Watch C1893
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A John Cashmore 18ct yellow gold, half quarter repeater keyless lever half hunter pocket watch, C1893.
Dial: The white enamel Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial outer m...
Category
Late 19th Century English Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Charles Humbert Fils 18 Karat Pocketwatch
Located in Frederick, MD
Rare 18kt yellow gold Charles Humbert Fils pocketwatch with original box and papers dated in 1901
Original Receipt with serial number and date included in box.
Paris Made
Light v...
Category
Early 1900s French Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold
Antique Peter Desmarais St. Martins Court Leister Square Rose Gold Pocket Watch
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Peter Desmarais, St Martins Court, Leister Square. An 18K rose gold pair case, key wind cylinder pocket watch, London, C1803.
Dial: A beautiful original fully signed and numbered wh...
Category
Early 19th Century English Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Rose Gold
Antique C1860 Henry Capt Rare YG Keyword Open Face Pivoted Detent Pocket Watch
By Henry Capt
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A rare Henry Capt 18ct yellow gold keywind open face, pivoted detent chronometer pocket watch with day date, C1860.
Dial: The perfect white enamel dial signed Henry Capt a Genève, R...
Category
1860s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Longines Rare Art Deco Slim Keyless Lever Pocket Watch 18ct White Gold
By Longines
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A rare Longines Art Deco slim keyless lever 44mm pocket watch in 18ct white gold, C1920s.
Dial: The beautiful two tone cream and silver dial signed Longines with black Arabic numera...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Art Deco Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Rare Rolex Prince 9CT Gold Keyless Lever Pocket Watch, C1930s
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Rolex Prince. A very rare 9ct yellow gold dress pocket watch C1930s
Dial: The excellent silver rare bow tie dial with Arabic twelve and black enamel batons, outer minute track and s...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold
Rare Gold and Enamel Presentation Pocket Watch with Portrait of Naser Shah
Located in Long Island City, NY
A Rare Swiss Gold and Enamel Hunting Case Presentation Pocket Watch with A Portrait of Naser Al Din Shah, of Persia.
Circa 1880.
Diameter 47 mm (2" diameter x 3" high)
18’’’ nick...
Category
19th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, Enamel
Presentation Indian Penny / Gold Quartz Watch Fob from President Teddy Roosevelt
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A very fine Presidential presentation gold quartz watch fob with an Indian head penny.
Presented by President Teddy Roosevelt to a US Navy Captain Delehanty.
With an engraved India...
Category
Early 20th Century American Edwardian Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Quartz, Gold, 14k Gold, Copper
Baume Swiss Full Hunter Keyless Lever Minute Repeater Pocket Watch, C1890s
By Baume
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Baume. A Swiss 18ct yellow gold, full hunter keyless lever minute repeater pocket watch, C1890s.
Dial: A perfect white enamel Roman numeral dial with outer minute track and subsidia...
Category
Late 19th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Tavannes Watch Company Silver Keyless Open Face Enamel Pocket Watch
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Tavannes Watch Company. A silver keyless lever, open face enamel pocket watch, C1920s.
Dial: A silver dial with Roman numerals, outer minute track and subsidiary seconds dial.
Case...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
Hampden Watch Company Multi Colored Gold Keyless Lever Full Hunter Pocket Watch
By Hampden Watch Company
Located in Mayfair, London, London
Hampden Watch Company, A 14ct multi coloured gold keyless lever full hunter pocket watch, C1890.
Dial: A beautiful condition white enamel dial with large Art Nouveau Arabic numerals...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Ulysse Nardin Steel Chronograph with Flawless Original Kiln Fired Enamel Dial
By Ulysse Nardin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Ulysse Nardin
STYLE / REFERENCE: Single Button Chronograph / Au Diademe / Tiara
METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
CIRCA / YEAR: 1920
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter ...
Category
1920s Swiss Art Deco Antique Pocket Watches
Illinois Watch Co. Currier Gold Filled Pocket Watch
By Illinois Watch Company
Located in Dallas, TX
Illinois Watch Co. Currier Gold Filled Pocket Watch - Manual winding; Key wind, Key set. Gold filed ornate engraving ( 54 mm ). White dial with Roman numerals and subdial at 6 o'cloc...
Category
19th Century American Antique Pocket Watches
18 Karat Gold, Tiffany
Co Enamelled Pendant Watch on Chain
By Tiffany
Co.
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
This Art Nouveau pendant watch on chain was made for Tiffany & Co for retail in the United States. The watch hangs from a yellow gold filled curb link chain that has a swivel type cl...
Category
Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold, 18k Gold, Gold-filled, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Thomas Russell
Son Liverpool Yellow Gold Keyless Lever Full Hunter Kew, C1910s
By Thomas Russell
Son
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A Thomas Russell & Son Liverpool heavy yellow gold keyless lever 55mm full hunter, Kew A Certified pocket watch, C1910s.
Dial: The superb white enamel dial fully signed Thomas Russe...
Category
Early 20th Century English Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Antique Pocket Key Watch French 1800s with Painted Enamel Dial
Located in London, GB
Rare Antique Pocket Key Watch French 1800s with Painted Enamel Dial in Working Order
An exceptional example of French craftwork estimated from the mid-1800s with delicate enamel pai...
Category
Early 19th Century French Empire Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
Wachenheimer Bros. American Art Deco Sterling Silver Guilloche Enamel Cufflinks
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of American Art Deco cufflinks.
In sterling silver.
With red or crimson guilloche enamel centers with double ring black enamel borders.
By Wachenheimer Brothers, Inc. ...
Category
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Sterling Silver, Enamel
Bonnet 18kt. Solid Gold Open Faced Pocket Watch with Engine Turned Dial 1850
s
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Bonnet
STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch
METAL / MATERIAL: 18Kt. Yellow Gold
CIRCA / YEAR: 1850
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 39mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Key W...
Category
1850s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Paul Ditisheim Montre Hamlet Silver Skull Pocket Watch
By Paul Ditisheim
Located in Narberth, PA
Paul Ditisheim was a famous Swiss watchmaker, inventor and industrialist. Born in 1868 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the historic birthplace of the watch-making industry, he was born into th...
Category
1920s Swiss Victorian Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver
Antique Silver K. E. A. Geneve Dress Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 51mm stem-winding(keyless) dress watch is in good working condition and it is running well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with tiny and light surface marks on the...
Category
Early 1900s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver
Gold-Plated Record Watch Co. Geneve Antique Pocket Watch
By Record Watch Co
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique Gold Plated Record Watch Co. Geneve Dress Pocket Watch.
This beautiful 51mm diameter stem-winding (keyless) dress watch is in good working condition and it is ticking well. ...
Category
Early 1900s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
Antique Gunmetal Stem-Wind Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique Gunmetal Pocket Watch Working.
This beautiful 50mm diameter keyless stem winding mechanical gunmetal pocket watch is in good working condition and it is running well. Visib...
Category
1910s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Enamel, Gilt Metal
Antique Gunmetal Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 49mm diameter Keyless Stem winding antique gunmetal pocket watch. This watch is good working condition and it is ticking well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with ti...
Category
1880s British Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Enamel, Gilt Metal
Antique Silver Niello Stem-Wind Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 50mm diameter Keyless stem-winding good quality pocket watch is in good working condition and it is running well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with light surface m...
Category
Early 1900s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel, Niello
Early English Lever Fusee Silver Full Hunter Engine Turned Case Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This Charming 51mm diameter good quality English Lever Fusee Silver Pocket watch is working and it is ticking well. It comes with a winding Key.
This watch shows a sign of aged and ...
Category
1880s British Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
Antique Full Hunter Engine Turned Nickel Cased Turkish Market Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
Nickel cased hunter pocket watch for the Turkish market, unsigned movement, the dial with Turkish numerals and blued steel hands, engine turned case, 54mm.
This watch is in good wo...
Category
1880s British Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gilt Metal, Other
Antique Gold-Plated Full Hunter Swiss Hand-Winding Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 52mm diameter antique gold plated hand winding pocket watch is in good working condition and it is ticking. It is recently been serviced and it is running well. Visibl...
Category
1910s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
Antique Gold-Plated Dennison Case Hand-Winding Waltham Pocket Watch
By American Waltham Watch Co.
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful antique 50mm diameter (excluding crown) Hand winding pocket watch is in good working condition and it is ticking well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with light mark...
Category
1910s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
Gold-Plated Cyma Dress Pocket Watch
By Cyma
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful slim 48mm diameter keyless hand winding mechanical dress watch in good working condition and it is running well. Beautiful gold plated case. Visible signs of ageing an...
Category
1920s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
Antique Silver Engine Turned Case Mappin
Webb, London Pocket Watch
By Mappin
Webb
Located in Carlisle, GB
This exceptional quality silver hand winding( keyless ) mechanical pocket watch is in good working condition and is running well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with light surface ...
Category
Early 1900s British Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
Antique Stem-Wind Pin Set Mechanical Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique Hand-wind Pocket Watch.
This beautiful 52mm diameter hand winding(keyless) watch is in good working condition and is running well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with tin...
Category
Early 1900s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver Plate
Antique Silver Pocket Watch Signed Le Roi
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 45mm antique silver stem-winding pocket watch signed Le Roí on the dial is in good working condition and it is ticking well. Visible crack across the enamel dial as sh...
Category
Early 1900s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver
Antique Silver Pocket Watch Signed the Waterbury Watch Co
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 52mm diameter antique silver hand-winding(keyless) pocket watch is in good working condition and it runs well. Visible signs of ageing and used with small and light su...
Category
1910s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Sterling Silver, Silver
Antique J.W. Benson London Keyless Silver Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 50mm diameter mechanical keyless silver pocket watch is in good working condition and it is running well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with tiny and light surface ...
Category
Early 1900s British Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
Antique Silver Plated Swiss 8 Day Hebdomas with Visible Escapement Pocket Watch
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 51mm diameter visible escapement keyless mechanical pocket watch is in good working condition and is running well. Visible signs of ageing with small and light surface...
Category
Early 20th Century Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver Plate
Antique Screw Back Gold-Plated Pocket Watch Signed Elgin Nat’l Watch Co. USA
By Elgin
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique ScrewbackGold Plated Pocket Watch Signed Elgin Nat’l Watch Co. U. S. A.
This beautiful 55mm diameter keyless hand winding gold plated pocket watch is in good working cond...
Category
Early 1900s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate, Enamel
Antique Gold-Plated Dennison Case Waltham U.S.A Hand-Winding Pocket Watch
By American Waltham Watch Co.
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 50mm diameter antique gold plated pocket watch is in good working condition and it is running well. Some signs of ageing and wear with tiny and light surface marks on ...
Category
1910s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate, Enamel
Antique Waltham Mass Pocket Watch Signed Fattorini
Sons, Bradford Non Magnetic
By American Waltham Watch Co.
Located in Carlisle, GB
This beautiful 50mm diameter keyless hand winding pocket watch is in good working condition and it is ticking well. Visible signs of ageing and wear with small and light surface mark...
Category
1910s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver Plate
Antique Swiss Made Silver Plated Pocket Watch with Visible Escapement
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique Swiss Made With Visible Escapement Silver Plated Pocket Watch.
This beautiful 49mm diameter visible escapement keyless silver plated pocket watch is in good working condition...
Category
1910s Swiss Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver Plate
Antique Gold-Plated Full Hunter Cased Pocket Watch Signed Illinois Watch Case Co
By Illinois Watch Company
Located in Carlisle, GB
Antique Gold Plated Full Hunter Cased Pocket Watch Signed Illinois Watch Case Co. United States of America.
Condition:
This watch is working and ticking well. Visible cracks on the...
Category
1910s American Antique Pocket Watches
Materials
Gold Plate, Enamel
- 1
- ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Antique Pocket Watches", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.
Antique Pocket Watches For Sale on 1stDibs
Find an expansive variety of antique pocket watches available on 1stDibs. Frequently made of Gold, 18k Gold and Silver, these items were constructed with great care. Find a collection of 919 vintage versions or 1 modern creations for a more contemporary example of these cherished accessories. Our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and pieces in stock date back to the 18th Century while others were produced as recently as the 21st Century. Pieces in our collection of antique pocket watches made by Victorian jewelers — as well as those associated with Art Deco — are very popular. Many examples in our inventory of these items are appealing no matter their origins, but Patek Philippe, Elgin and American Waltham Watch Co. produced popular versions that are worth a look. Any of these pieces can lend versatility to your look, but Diamond versions, from our inventory of 118, are particularly popular. There are many rose cut, round cut and bead antique pocket watches for sale. If you’re browsing the variety of antique pocket watches for sale, you’ll find that many are available today for men, but there are still pieces to choose from for women.
How Much are Antique Pocket Watches?
Prices for antique pocket watches can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $115 and can go as high as $500,000, while antique pocket watches, on average, fetch $2,976.
Finding the Right Pocket Watches for You
Can you pull off a vintage pocket watch? Of course you can. With a suit and a waistcoat, a pocket watch can be a refreshing alternative to a wristwatch.
The earliest pocket watches were luxury items, and, owing to cost, they weren’t commonplace until the 19th century. Artfully crafted pocket watches were a symbol of wealth, and manufacturers such as Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe became known for theirs. (Today, they’re among the most sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.)
At the onset, pocket watches resembled small round table clocks, and pulling your small round table clock — perhaps of the silver variety — out of your breast pocket in front of someone else demonstrated unequivocally that you cared about punctuality. For collectors, pocket watches are big, and that means a larger canvas provided for functions without crowding the dial. For example, the Marius Lecoultre pocket watch — made circa 1890 — does everything but uncork your wine.
In the late 1800s, the open-face pocket watch became a staple on the American railroad. It was a requirement for railway workers to wear a pocket watch, as the timepieces were responsible for keeping conductors on schedule. This was a boon to the watchmaking industry, with companies like Hamilton, the Elgin National Watch Company and the Waltham Watch Company producing high-grade and workingman’s watches.
By the 1930s, wristwatches comprised the bulk of watch manufacturing in America, superseding the pocket watch. Suddenly, if you wanted to know the time, you merely glanced at your wrist. But given their vintage charm and our general appetite for good design, pocket watches are a piece of statement-making jewelry and today can prove complementary to your formal attire in a manner that is stylish and unconventional.
Let time take its course — browse a vast selection of antique and vintage pocket watches available on 1stDibs designed by legendary brands such as IWC, Cartier and more.
Questions About Antique Pocket Watches
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A pocket watch pocket is called by a number of names. You will sometimes see people refer to it simply as a watch pocket. Other names include a coin pocket or a fob pocket. Find a variety of antique pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022The way to speed up your pocket watch depends on the specific model of timepiece that you have. To avoid damage, take it to a watch repair shop with experience repairing pocket watches to make adjustments. You'll find a selection of pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- What is a hunter pocket watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021A hunter pocket watch is a pocket watch with a metal case that has a spring hinged lid to cover the watch face and protect it from damage.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024The most highly sought-after pocket watch will vary over time as trends in collecting do come and go. However, some pocket watches remain consistently popular among collectors. These timepieces include dress watches, such as those crafted by Elgin, Audemars Piguet and Patek Phillippe; railroad pocket watches produced by makers like Illinois and Hamilton; and military timepieces manufactured by Rolex and Omega. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of pocket watches.
- What is the best pocket watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021The best pocket watch is a matter of preference. The earliest pocket watches were luxury items, and, owing to cost, they weren’t commonplace until the 19th century. Artfully crafted pocket watches were a symbol of wealth. Brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet are internationally renowned makers of pocket watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches.
- How do I store pocket watches?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022How you store pocket watches is largely a matter of personal preference. Generally, you should keep them in a storage container designed specifically for stowing delicate items, such as a velvet-lined jewelry box, a watch box or on a watch stand. Shop a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- What is a pocket watch fob?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A pocket watch fob refers to the chain or ribbon to which a pocket watch is attached. Its purpose was to make the watch more readily accessible to the wearer. You’ll find a variety of pocket watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a Fusee pocket watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A fusee pocket watch — named for the French word fusée — is an antique type of watch with a crescent pulley and a curved groove around it that is wound with a cord or chain. The chain is attached to the mainspring barrel. Find a range of vintage fusee pocket watches on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, pocket watches peaked in popularity in the 1800s. The first pocket watch was created in Germany in 1510, but was originally too large for a pocket. In the 1600s, the design began to get more compact, but for a long time pocket watches were a rarity and a symbol of wealth. Shop an array of antique pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024To identify a railroad pocket watch, first determine how you set and wind it. Most pocket watches have winding knobs, but railroad-grade timepieces were all made to be lever-set. To wind and set them, it's necessary to remove the bezel, so if your pocket watch has a winding knob, it's unlikely to be railroad-grade. There were also regulations concerning the numbers. All railroad-grade watches will have large black hour markers in Arabic, not Roman, numerals. Maker's markings may also provide a clue. Some well-known makers of railroad-grade pocket watches include Elgin, Hamilton, Waltham and E. Howard. For an expert opinion on your timepiece, have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate it. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of railroad pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022The easiest way to identify your Elgin pocket watch is to enter the serial number into an authoritative online database. To find the serial number, open the timepiece and look at the inner movement. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Elgin pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To open an Illinois pocket watch, take it to a watch repair shop or a jeweler. Experts advise against attempting to open pocket watches on your own because doing so without the proper tools can damage the timepieces. On 1stDibs, find a range of Illinois pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To use a pocket watch chain, first attach one end to the fob of your watch. Then, tuck the watch into the watch pocket of your jacket. Thread the free end of the chain through your jacket buttonhole. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A watch fob is the name for a pocket watch chain. It's utilized to make the pocket watch more accessible by providing a handle for the user to hold while taking it out of a vest or pant pocket. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of pocket watch chains.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Yes, pocket watches can be a good investment. However, many factors can influence the value of a pocket watch, including the brand, the style and the mechanism that powers it. Also, how well you maintain and care for the watch impacts what it is worth. You'll find a collection of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, pocket watches can be worth something. A pocket watch's value depends on its age, rarity, and brand. The watch's brand name is the main factor in determining price.
- Who makes Elgin pocket watches?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024The answer to who makes Elgin pocket watches is a little complicated. In 1968, the Elgin National Watch Company closed and stopped producing its watches. However, the owners opted to license the Elgin name to other companies, allowing them to make their own watches that bear the brand’s name. The license changed hands a few times and, as of 2024, was the property of MZ Berger Inc. This company manufactures and sells Elgin pocket watches and wristwatches in China. These timepieces feature Japanese-made movements and bear little resemblance to the original pocket watches produced by Elgin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Rockford pocket watches were made in Rockford, Illinois. The company opened in 1874 and produced pocket watches that quickly became known for their elaborate dials. In 1915, the Rockford Watch Company ceased operations due to financial problems. Shop an assortment of Rockford Watch Company pocket watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024To tell how old your pocket watch is, learn about its maker by conducting online research using trustworthy sources. For each maker, there is a set of characteristics used to date its timepieces. You may need to examine the maker's mark, serial number, model number, movement number, dial features or other aspects. If you run into any difficulty, consider having a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer assist you with the dating process. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024Elgin pocket watches are more than 150 years old. The first Elgin pocket watch debuted in 1867, and the Elgin National Watch Co. watchmaker continued to produce them until 1968. At the height of their popularity, Elgin pocket watches accounted for half of all pocket watches sold in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a range of Elgin watches.
Read More
The Rolex Datejust Is Celebrating Its 80th Anniversary
The watch has transformed several times over, but it’s still undeniably a classic.
The Rolex Bluesy
This is perhaps the least subtle version of the Submariner.
Rolex Starbucks
If you think this looks like the Rolex Kermit, you're correct.
The Rolex Hulk
This all-green version of the Submariner is much sought-after.
The Rolex Sprite
This model was designed for lefties.
The Rolex Pepsi
This model's other nickname, Pussy Galore, come from a James Bond film.
Patek Philippe’s Calatrava Watch Is an Icon of Understated Elegance
Launched in 1932, the model has become emblematic of quality craftsmanship and timeless design.
Bulgari’s Serpenti Wristwatch Is the Power Piece of the Moment, Again
From Elizabeth Taylor to Zendaya, the Serpenti has been the accessory of choice for generations of it girls.
More Ways To Browse
Louis Xv Style Clocks
1920s Christmas
Le Roy Et Fils
Antique Clocks Glasgow
R Stewart
Patek Philippe Silk
Texas Flag
Charles Oudin
Perpetual Pocket Watch
Pocket Chronometre
Pocket Watch Chronometre
School Pocket Watch
Silver Pocket Watch Chain
Verge Fusee Pocket Watch
Verge Fusee Watch
Waltham Open Face
Watch Ruby Face
14k Ladies Pocket Watch