What is the difference between a half hunter and full hunter pocket watch?

The difference between a half hunter and full hunter pocket watch is its lid. On a full hunter, the lid covers the entire face of the watch and you must lift it to see the face. On a half hunter, the lid has a glass panel that allows you to read the time without opening the timepiece. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of pocket watches.

How do I know if my pocket watch is valuable?

To know if your pocket watch is valuable, consult a licensed appraiser. Choose one with experience appraising antique and vintage timepieces. Having your pocket watch evaluated by a knowledgeable professional is the only way to be certain of its value. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique and vintage pocket watches.

What is a full hunter pocket watch?

Full hunter pocket watches are a popular choice for those nostalgic for timepieces of years past. The solid outer case of this type of watch, which often features intricate designs, needs to be opened in order to reveal the watch’s face. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage watches.

What is a hunter pocket watch?

A 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.

What is a half hunter pocket watch?

Like its hunter-case cousin, the half-hunter pocket watch features a protective lid or case that protects the face of the watch. The distinction is that the case front has a viewing window that allows the owner to check the time without having to open the pocket watch lid. The hours are frequently inscribed in blue enamel on the exterior lid itself, making it possible to tell the time without opening the case. Shop a range of vintage half-hunter pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What is a pocket watch pocket called?

A 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.

How can I speed up my pocket watch?

The 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 the most sought-after pocket watch?

The 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 a Fusee pocket watch?

A 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.

What is the best pocket watch?

The 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.

What is a pocket watch fob?

A 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.

How do I store pocket watches?

How 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.

Where were Rockford pocket watches made?

Rockford 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.

Are pocket watches a good investment?

Yes, 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.

Are pocket watches worth anything?

Yes, 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.

How do I identify a railroad pocket watch?

To 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.

Did they have pocket watches in the 1800s?

Yes, 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.

How do I use a pocket watch chain?

To 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.

How do I identify my Elgin pocket watch?

The 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.

How do I open an Illinois pocket watch?

To 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.

What is a pocket watch chain called?

A 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.

Who makes Elgin pocket watches?

The 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.

What are pocket watch chains called?

A pocket watch chain is called a fob, or watch fob. They can be made in a variety of materials, but most often appear in a metal that matches the case of the watch itself. Shop a collection of antique watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Hunter Pocket Watches

14k Gold Enamel Pocket Watch

Lever Watch

Swiss Hunter Watch

Gold Pocket Watch Roman Numerals

Swiss Watches Gold Swiss Watches

Swiss Chronograph 18k

Gold Pocket Watch With Chain

Repeater Chronograph Pocket Watch

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

A Gold Full Hunter Calendar Quarter Repeater Chrono Pocket Watch C1890

$11,638

Favre Keywind Conversion to Stemwinding Yellow Gold Hunter s Case Pocket Watch

Located in Long Beach, CA

oldest watch company in the world. This very unusual example started life as a key winding pocket watch

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Favre Keywind Conversion to Stemwinding Yellow Gold Hunter s Case Pocket Watch

$3,500

Volta 18ct Rose Gold Full Hunter Calendar Minute Chronograph Pocket Watch

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Volta 18ct rose gold minute repeater calendar chronograph full hunter keyless lever pocket watch

Category

Antique 18th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Volta 18ct Rose Gold Full Hunter Calendar Minute Chronograph Pocket Watch

$11,638

Massive Full Hunter Yellow Gold Keywind Fusee Railway Timepiece Pocket Watch

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Massive 55mm Full Hunter 18kt Yellow Gold Keywind Fusee Railway Timepiece of Historical interest

Category

Antique 18th Century British Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Massive Full Hunter Yellow Gold Keywind Fusee Railway Timepiece Pocket Watch

$8,010

Vulcain 18kt Rose Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeating Automaton Pocket Watch C1880

By Vulcain

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Vulcain 58mm 18Kt Rose Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeating Automaton Pocket Watch C1880 Case: The

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Vulcain 18kt Rose Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeating Automaton Pocket Watch C1880

$20,881

Systeme Glashutte by Lange 14 Karat Yellow Gold Hunters Case Pocket Watch

By Glashütte Original

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Systeme Glashutte / Lange STYLE / REFERENCE: Hunters Case Pocket Watch METAL

Category

Early 20th Century German Art Deco Pocket Watches

Systeme Glashutte by Lange 14 Karat Yellow Gold Hunters Case Pocket Watch

$3,700

Full Hunter Minute Repeating Calendar Pocket Watch Vintage Gents 18k Yellow Gold

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A 55mm 18k Yellow Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeating Calendar Vintage Gents Pocket Watch, white

Category

Early 20th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Full Hunter Minute Repeating Calendar Pocket Watch Vintage Gents 18k Yellow Gold

$9,064

Edda &Co Rose Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Calendar Chronograph Pocket Watch

Located in Mayfair, London, London

EDDA Watch Company 14ct rose gold full hunter minute repeater calendar chronograph pocket watch

Category

20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Rose Gold

Edda &Co Rose Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Calendar Chronograph Pocket Watch

$13,761

Longines 18ct Yellow Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Keyless Lever Pocket Watch

By Longines

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Longines 18ct yellow gold full hunter minute repeater pocket watch, C1920s. Dial: A beautiful

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Longines 18ct Yellow Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Keyless Lever Pocket Watch

$13,076

Louis Brandt Frere Full Hunter Gold Swiss Quarter Repeater Pocket Watch C1890

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Louis Brandt & Frere full hunter Swiss 18ct yellow gold quarter repeater pocket watch. Dial: White

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Louis Brandt Frere Full Hunter Gold Swiss Quarter Repeater Pocket Watch C1890

$9,927

Jules Jurgensen Yellow Gold Demi-Hunter Case Pocket Watch Retailed by Tiffany Co.

By Jules Jurgensen

Located in Southampton, PA

Jules Jurgensen Demi-Hunter Case Pocket Watch retailed by Tiffany & Co. This watch has a solid 18k

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Danish Victorian Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Jules Jurgensen Yellow Gold Demi-Hunter Case Pocket Watch Retailed by Tiffany Co.

$9,500

Antique Le Coultre Co. A Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Pocket Watch. C1890

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Le Coultre & Co. A 14ct Rose Gold Full Hunter Keyless Lever Minute Repeater Pocket Watch. C1890

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Le Coultre Co. A Gold Full Hunter Minute Repeater Pocket Watch. C1890

$8,763

Extremely Rare Patek Philippe Heavy Hunter Case 18K White Gold Pocket Watch 980G

By Patek Philippe

Located in Dallas, TX

Extremely Rare Patek Philippe Heavy Hunter Case 18K White Gold Pocket Watch 980G - Manual winding

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Swiss 14 Carat Gold Monopol Keyless Lever Full Hunter Pocket C1920s

$3,970

Presidential Presentation Pocket Watch by Waltham

By Waltham

Located in New Orleans, LA

This rare and highly significant full Hunter Waltham pocket watch was presented by President of the

Category

Early 20th Century American Aesthetic Movement Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Presidential Presentation Pocket Watch by Waltham

$54,500

14K Yellow Gold American Waltham Pocket Watch

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

14K Yellow Gold American Waltham Pocket Watch (Hunter's case)

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

14K Yellow Gold American Waltham Pocket Watch

$2,850

Elgin 14Kt. Gold Hunters Case Pocket with Kiln Fired Enamel Dial from 1887

By Elgin

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Hunters Case Pocket Watch METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Antique 1880s American Pocket Watches

Elgin 14Kt. Gold Hunters Case Pocket with Kiln Fired Enamel Dial from 1887

$1,800

Patek Philippe Very Rare Rose Gold Early Half Hunter Keyless Lever Pocket, C1880

By Patek Philippe

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Patek Philippe. A Very Rare Rose Gold Early Half Hunter Keyless Lever Pocket Watch C1880 with

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Patek Philippe Very Rare Rose Gold Early Half Hunter Keyless Lever Pocket, C1880

$15,883

Van Cleef Arpels 18Kt. Art Deco Ultra Thin Pocket Watch, circa 1930 s

By Van Cleef Arpels

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Van Cleef & Arpels STYLE / REFERENCE: 1/2 Hunter Pocket Watch / Ultra Thin METAL

Category

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wrist Watches

Van Cleef Arpels 18Kt. Art Deco Ultra Thin Pocket Watch, circa 1930 s

$7,500

Jaeger LeCoultre Full Hunter White Gold Silver Dial 9104 Manual Wind Watch

By Jaeger-LeCoultre

Located in Mayfair, London, London

An 18k White Gold Full Hunter Gents Pocket Watch, silver dial with roman numerals, a fixed 18k

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Pocket Watches

Materials

White Gold

Jaeger LeCoultre Full Hunter White Gold Silver Dial 9104 Manual Wind Watch

$5,477

Antoine Freres Lady s Rose Gold Demi-Hunter Cased Pendant Watch circa 1890

Located in Firenze, IT

18k rose gold lady's demi-hunter cased pendant watch with black enamel chapter ring to the front

Category

Antique 1890s Swiss Victorian Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold

Antoine Freres Lady s Rose Gold Demi-Hunter Cased Pendant Watch circa 1890

$1,500

David Taylor Yellow Gold Marked Fusee Pocket Watch, circa 1840s

Located in Long Beach, CA

Pocket Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 18 Kt. Solid Yellow Gold DIMENSIONS: 52mm X 52mm CIRCA: 1830 MOVEMENT

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century British Pocket Watches

David Taylor Yellow Gold Marked Fusee Pocket Watch, circa 1840s

$5,500

RIVAL FULL CALENDAR ANTIQUE Pocket Watch MOON PHASE 1/4 REPEATER SOLID GOLD12.5K

Located in Mumbai, IN

RARE BEAUTIFUL FULL HUNTER RIVAL CALENDAR POCKET WATCH WITH 7 AWARDS & 8 COMPLICATIONS: 1) DAY

Category

Antique 1890s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold

RIVAL FULL CALENDAR ANTIQUE Pocket Watch MOON PHASE 1/4 REPEATER SOLID GOLD12.5K

$12,500

Patek Philippe Co. Yellow Gold Hunter Case and Brooch

By Patek Philippe

Located in Dallas, TX

Patek Philippe & Co. 18K Gold Hunter Case and Brooch - Manual winding. 18K Yellow gold case

Category

Antique Early 1900s Swiss Pocket Watches

Patek Philippe Co. Yellow Gold Hunter Case and Brooch

$3,850

$10,474

Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Hunter Case

By Patek Philippe

Located in Bishop s Stortford, Hertfordshire

Ref: COM1615 Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Model: Pocket Watch Model Ref: Age: 31st October 1863

Category

Antique 1860s Wrist Watches

Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Hunter Case

$64,622

Patek Philippe Co. 18K Yellow Gold Hunter Case Pocket Watch Ref 865

By Patek Philippe

Located in Dallas, TX

Patek Philippe & Co. 18K Yellow gold Hunter Case Pocket Watch Ref 865 - Manual movement; 18 jewels

Category

20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

$8,831

Massive 18 Karat Gold Men s Hunter Pocket Watch by Allamand Brothers, London

Located in Berlin, DE

Rare massive 18 Karat Gold mens Hunter Pocket Watch Allamand Brothers London. Allamand Brothers

Category

Antique 19th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Massive 18 Karat Gold Men s Hunter Pocket Watch by Allamand Brothers, London

$5,696

A Gold Minute Repeater Calendar Chronograph Hunter Pocket Watch C1890s

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A Swiss Gold Keyless Lever Minute Repeater Calendar Chronograph Hunter Pocket Watch C1890s Dial

Category

Antique 19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

A Gold Minute Repeater Calendar Chronograph Hunter Pocket Watch C1890s

$11,296

$64,834

A. Lange Söhne Glashütte Yellow Gold Hunter Pocket Watch

By A. Lange Söhne

Located in Berlin, DE

A. Lange & Söhne Glashütte Pocket Hunter Watch 14k Gold. All three lids are made of 14k gold. Very

Category

Early 20th Century German Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

A. Lange Söhne Glashütte Yellow Gold Hunter Pocket Watch

$6,526

$7,051

Patek Philippe Yellow Gold and Enamel Demi Hunter Pocket Watch 19th Century

By Patek Philippe

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Very rare pocket watch created by Patek Philippe in the 1800's. Made of 18k yellow gold. Cylinder

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Patek Philippe Yellow Gold and Enamel Demi Hunter Pocket Watch 19th Century

$6,900

Tiffany Co 18 Karat Gold Hunters Pocket Watch with Rare Sweep Seconds Register

By Tiffany Co.

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Tiffany & Co. STYLE / REFERENCE: Hunters Case Pocket Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 18kt

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Tiffany Co Pocket Watch 18K Yellow Gold Hunter Manual Hand Wind Up

$4,900

Antique Edwardian European Silver Enamel Double Half Hunter 35mm Pocket Watch

Located in MELBOURNE, AU

Antique Silver Double Half Hunter Pocket Watch dates back to Edwardian period, of European

Category

Antique Early 1900s French Edwardian Pocket Watches

Materials

Silver, Enamel

Antique Edwardian European Silver Enamel Double Half Hunter 35mm Pocket Watch

$506

Get Updated with New Arrivals

Save "Hunter Pocket Watches", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Hunter Pocket Watches For Sale on 1stDibs

Browse a vast assortment of hunter pocket watches for sale on 1stDibs. Frequently made of gold, 18k gold and yellow gold, these items were constructed with great care. Our selection of items includes 522 vintage examples as well as 12 contemporary versions. Our inventory is broad and distinctive, with accessories on offer that were made as long ago as the 18th Century to those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Victorian and Art Nouveau are consistently popular styles when it comes to hunter pocket watches. Patek Philippe, American Waltham Watch Co. and Elgin each produced beautiful examples of these items that are worth considering. Lovers of these pieces agree that it’s a versatile accessory, but a selection from our variety of 9 diamond versions can add an especially stylish touch. Today, if you’re looking for bead hunter pocket watches and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes rose cut and round cut alternatives. When shopping our range of hunter pocket watches, you’ll find that there are less available pieces for women today than there are for men.

How Much are Hunter Pocket Watches?

Prices for hunter pocket watches can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $227 and can go as high as $96,522, while hunter pocket watches, on average, fetch $5,217.

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 Hunter Pocket Watches

What is the difference between a half hunter and full hunter pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The difference between a half hunter and full hunter pocket watch is its lid. On a full hunter, the lid covers the entire face of the watch and you must lift it to see the face. On a half hunter, the lid has a glass panel that allows you to read the time without opening the timepiece. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of pocket watches.
How do I know if my pocket watch is valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To know if your pocket watch is valuable, consult a licensed appraiser. Choose one with experience appraising antique and vintage timepieces. Having your pocket watch evaluated by a knowledgeable professional is the only way to be certain of its value. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique and vintage pocket watches.
What is a full hunter pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
Full hunter pocket watches are a popular choice for those nostalgic for timepieces of years past. The solid outer case of this type of watch, which often features intricate designs, needs to be opened in order to reveal the watch’s face. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage watches.
What is a hunter pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
A 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.
What is a half hunter pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
Like its hunter-case cousin, the half-hunter pocket watch features a protective lid or case that protects the face of the watch. The distinction is that the case front has a viewing window that allows the owner to check the time without having to open the pocket watch lid. The hours are frequently inscribed in blue enamel on the exterior lid itself, making it possible to tell the time without opening the case. Shop a range of vintage half-hunter pocket watches on 1stDibs.
What is a pocket watch pocket called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A 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.
How can I speed up my pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The 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 the most sought-after pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
The 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 a Fusee pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
A 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.
What is the best pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
The 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.
What is a pocket watch fob?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A 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.
How do I store pocket watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
How 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.
Where were Rockford pocket watches made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
Rockford 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.
Are pocket watches a good investment?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, 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.
Are pocket watches worth anything?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Yes, 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.
How do I identify a railroad pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To 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.
Did they have pocket watches in the 1800s?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, 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.
How do I use a pocket watch chain?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To 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.
How do I identify my Elgin pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The 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.
How do I open an Illinois pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To 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.
What is a pocket watch chain called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
A 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.
Who makes Elgin pocket watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
The 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.
What are pocket watch chains called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A pocket watch chain is called a fob, or watch fob. They can be made in a variety of materials, but most often appear in a metal that matches the case of the watch itself. Shop a collection of antique watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.