Collecting Antique Pocket Watches
A very unique hobby among today's collectors is the collecting of antique pocket watches. History, nostalgia, quality and beauty make these valuable watches a sought after collectible. The antique pocket watches you will find today are a far cry from the original pocket watches of the 16th century. They're more likely to be authentic timepieces from the 1800s (if it carries the "antique" moniker; "vintage" will get you something from the 20th century).
When spring technology came along in the 1500s, weights were no longer a necessity for clock operation. Now, clocks could be portable. Personal timepieces, the possibility once scoffed at, were now a reality. Of course, these new condensed versions of the watch, were still a bit large by the pocket watch standards of later centuries. Therefore, they were typically worn as a thick-chained necklace. Gradually, antique pocket watches did decrease in size.
The 17th century gave birth to the more classic pocket watch look that collectors are familiar with today. These watches are of a less bulky nature and are more round than square. By the time these watches came along, aesthetics was a concern as well as the elements that made the watch function. Before long, gemstones and precious metals were being used in these pocket watches, as their popularity made them a signature timepiece for the classier folks.
Pocket watches are many things in one: functional timekeeping instruments, elegant jewelry, and designed to be rugged enough for a man and beautiful enough for a woman. No matter who you are or what you do in life, there is a pocket watch that is right for you. Through the centuries, pocket watches have remained a popular accessory choice for many men and women. While the 20th century advent of the wristwatch sent pocket watch popularity to the wayside, they had a long run in history as the must-have timepiece. These days, the sense of nostalgia brought on by the mere sight of an antique pocket watch makes them a desired piece for every collector.
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