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Pocket watches have been around since the 16th century and are still a timeless accessory today. Wearing a pocket watch can give your outfit an extra touch of class and sophistication. Whether you’re a fan of vintage fashion or just looking to add a unique accessory to your wardrobe, a pocket watch is the perfect way to add a little something special to your look.
Pocket Watch Styles
Open-Faced Pocket Watch
Open-faced pocket watches are the most traditional style of pocket watch. They traditionally have a white face with black Roman numerals, but can also come in a variety of colours and designs. Open-faced pocket watches are the easiest to read and typically feature a stem at the 3 o’clock position for winding and setting the time. These watches typically hang from a chain and can be tucked into a pocket or attached to a belt loop.
Hunter Pocket Watch
Hunter pocket watches are another popular style of pocket watch. These watches typically have a metal casing which can be opened by pressing the button at the top of the watch. The casing opens like a clam shell, allowing you to view the face of the watch. Hunter pocket watches are available in a variety of designs and often feature a hinged protective cover over the face.
Half-Hunter Pocket Watch
Half-hunter watches have a protective cover over the face but do not open like a traditional hunter pocket watch. They feature a small window in the casing that allows you to view the time without having to open the watch.
Double-Hunter Pocket Watch
A Double-hunter pocket watch features two protective lead covers or "hunters" that cover both the front and the back of the watch. The first hunter cover opens to reveal the watch face. The second hunter cover opens to reveal the intricate inner workings of the watch, including the gears, springs, and escapement.
Types Of Pocket Watch Chains
T-Bar Pocket Watch Chain
T-bar pocket watch chains are the most common type of pocket watch chain. These chains are typically made from metals such as gold, silver, or nickel and feature a “T” shaped bar at one end with a loop at the other to secure the pocket watch. The T-bar pocket watch chain allows the pocket watch to be worn at the waist and is a classic, timeless look.
Belt Slide Pocket Watch Chain
Belt Slide Pocket Watch Chains are a great way to add a touch of modern style to your look. This type of pocket watch chain is typically made from leather and features a loop at one end and a clip at the other that slides along a belt, allowing you to easily secure your pocket watch to your waist.
Bolt Ring Pocket Watch Chain
Bolt Ring Pocket Watch Chains are a great option if you’re looking for a more secure way to wear your pocket watch. This type of pocket watch chain is typically made from metal and features a loop on one end and a bolt ring on the other. The bolt ring fastens directly to the pocket watch, ensuring that your pocket watch won’t be lost or damaged.
Wearing A Pocket Watch
When wearing a pocket watch, the most important factor to consider is where you place it. Depending on the type of pocket watch you have, you can tuck it into your breast pocket, lower pocket, or even your waistcoat pocket.
Left Or Right Pocket?
When deciding which pocket to wear your pocket watch in, the general rule of thumb is to wear it in the opposite pocket of your dominant hand. For most people, this means wearing the pocket watch in the left pocket if you are right-handed, or the right pocket if you are left-handed. This is because it makes it easier to reach for the watch if it’s on the opposite side of your body. However, if you are someone who likes to switch up their style, you can also wear your pocket watch in either pocket depending on the outfit you’re wearing.
Front Pocket
Wearing a pocket watch in a front pocket is a great way to make a statement. This style of pocket watch can be worn with a variety of outfits, from casual to formal. To wear a pocket watch in a front pocket, simply slide it in and make sure it’s securely fastened. You can also use a pocket watch chain to attach the watch to your belt or waistband.
Breast Pocket
Wearing a pocket watch in the breast pocket is a classic look that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. To wear a pocket watch in the breast pocket, simply slide the watch into the pocket and make sure it’s securely fastened. You can also use a pocket watch chain to attach the watch to your shirt or vest, for a more formal look. This style of pocket watch is perfect for formal occasions, such as weddings or business meetings.
Colour Schemes
When it comes to matching your pocket watch to your outfit, the options are endless. The colour of your pocket watch should complement the other elements of your outfit. If you’re wearing a navy suit, for example, you might opt for a silver pocket watch with a blue face. If you’re wearing brown trousers and a white shirt, you might choose a gold pocket watch with a white face.
How To Wear Pocket Watches For Different Occasions
Pocket watches can be worn to a variety of occasions, from formal events to more casual gatherings. Whether you’re going to a wedding, an important business meeting, or a formal dinner, a pocket watch can help you make a statement.
A Formal Event
When it comes to wearing a pocket watch for a formal event, it’s important to select a timepiece that matches the occasion. Opt for a classic silver or gold pocket watch with a traditional chain. Be sure to pair your pocket watch with a well-tailored suit or tuxedo for an elegant look. If you want to add a bit of flair to your outfit, try accessorising with a pocket watch chain in a contrasting colour or material. For example, if you’re wearing a black tuxedo, try a gold pocket watch chain to make your look stand out.
With a Waistcoat
If you’re wearing a waistcoat, a pocket watch is the perfect accessory to complete your look. In order to don a wedding pocket watch along with a waistcoat, it's recommended to opt for one of the chains mentioned earlier - either a T-bar chain or a bolt ring chain. To secure the watch, one end of the chosen chain should be fastened to the watch, while the other end should be passed through the waistcoat buttonhole. After this, the pocket watch can be placed in the pocket of the waistcoat (or jacket), while the decorative chain remains visible.
To make the most of your waistcoat, opt for a pocket watch with an open-faced design and a traditional chain. For an extra bit of flair, try a pocket watch with a colourful dial or an engraved case.
With a Suit
To start, choose a pocket watch that matches the style of your suit. A silver pocket watch will pair nicely with a navy blazer for example, while a gold pocket watch works best with a charcoal or black suit. Next, attach the pocket watch to your suit. If you don’t have a pocket watch chain, you can use a watch fob to attach it to the belt loop of your trousers, or simply slip it into your pocket.
With a Shirt
If your occasion doesn’t require either a waistcoat or jacket you can still wear a pocket watch.
Depending on the type of fastening, you can affix the pocket watch to either a lower shirt buttonhole or your belt loop, and subsequently store it in your trouser pocket.
With Jeans
A vintage or antique pocket watch will look sophisticated and classic when paired with dark jeans, whereas a modern pocket watch will look more casual and trendy when paired with jeans in a lighter wash. When selecting a watch chain, opt for one that complements the style of your watch and jeans. You will need to choose a belt loop pocket watch chain to attach it to your belt loop and pop it in your jean pocket.
To complete your look, team your jeans with a smart shirt or t-shirt and blazer.
Find Yourself the Perfect Pocket Watch
Here at the Watch Centre, we sell a range of collectible vintage pocket watches in a variety of unique and stylish styles. Located on Bond St, we have years of experience serving our wonderful customers and take pride in selling the very best rare watches on the market.
You can browse our full collection of luxury pocket watches online today or take a trip to our store.
