A Quick Guide to Pocket Watch Buying
Pocket watches are not as popular as they were before the invention of the wristwatch. This has made them highly coveted by collectors, as many antique pocket watches are true works of art, as well as fine examples of watch craftsmanship.
Looking to invest in a pocket watch? If yes, you will first need to determine whether you are wanting to buy a specific brand of antique pocket watch or a watch crafted from a specific metal. Once you have determined your preferences, you can begin your search for a watch that meets your requirements. Here’s a quick guide on what to consider and look out for.
The Brand Name
You don’t need to be a brand snob but you should pay some attention to the brand when purchasing your watch. There are many companies out there all designing pocket watches using different techniques, leading to a diverse range of pocket watches. We advise you to shop around and research into a few companies behind the watches you are looking at. You may want a company that has been in business for years or a new company with innovative design methods.
Keeping the brand in mind may lead you to different styles and colours that you may not have found if you hadn’t looked into the brand.
Open faced or hinged?
Pocket watches come in 2 styles – open faced and hinged. Open face watches have no covering over the face, which are easier if you are wanting to check the time quickly. Hinged styles have a cover attached. You have to activate a lever to release the cover display. Not sure which one will suit you more? Consider how often you will be using your watch! Less activity would suit a hinged style, with open faced styles more suited to high activity usage.
The Style of the Watch and the Colour
Pocket watches are made to be worn in a pocket- it may sound silly but this will mean that the design may be simpler than what you may envision. Keeping this in mind may more attention to the lines and materials used. You are wanting the watch to have clean lines and easy care for materials that won’t scratch if they come in contact with coins in your pocket.
However, you want to be proud of taking the watch out of your pocket to check the time from time to time. Looking at the colour is a major part of the look of the watch. Pocket watches come in just about any colour. Metal watches come in silver, gold, platinum, stainless steel and even bronze. These tend to be the more traditional style which will have an analog face. These are viewed as classier and more of a timeless piece. You can however, purchase sportier versions which come in many colours and will more than likely pair nicely with a digital clock.
What do the reviews say?
Reading reviews now plays a massive part in a consumers purchasing journey. Take time to read them as it can help in making a decision easier, we advise you to take every review with a pinch of salt as people are more likely to review a product that doesn’t live up to their expectations. Look out for mechanical defaults, poor warranties and other red flags.
Once you start looking for your watch you will be surprised how many watches there are on the market. Take your time when shopping to find the right watch for your needs, budget and personality. At Cuttings we have timeless pieces in stock including this 9ct Gold Pocket Watch and this classic 18ct Gold ‘1912’ Pocket Watch.