Need a Great Gift? Try a Pocket Watch!

At one time, the pocket watch told society so much about a gentleman. Generally, a man’s pocket watch, elegant, tasteful, and personal, bespoke his place in society. A man born to wealth would sport a pocket watch that had been handed down to him by a close relative. The pocket watch would be beautiful but never ostentatious. It would more than likely be engraved and of a beautifully hewn gold or platinum. This pocket watch would be one of his most prized possessions. It was his link with his family and a very useful part of his life. His jackets or vests would have special pockets made for the pocket watch.

At the other end of the spectrum, of course, would be the nouveau riche gentlemen who had pocket watches that showed society that he was rich and had ostentatious taste. This rich man who was still outside polite society wanted the best of everything and, therefore, bought the most expensive of everything. Taste was not an option. Every time he looked at his pocket watch, he would think about his wealth. His pocket watch was useful too, but it was also his calling card. Anyone who looked at it would immediately know that its owner was wealthy and newly rich.

We mustn't forget the common man. Even he had a pocket watch. It too might have been handed down through his family line. Many fathers left their pocket watches to their eldest son. Whether made of silver, platinum, brass, gold, or just a cheap metal, the pocket watch would have meaning to the son because it belonged to his father. Because the pocket watch had so much sentimental value and was, of course, essential to an orderly life, men prized their pocket watches above all other pieces of jewelry.

Suspended from a chain and carried in a pocket or pouch, pocket watches are really small analog clocks. The chain itself, as well as ornaments for the chain, are often known as fobs. The majority of all pocket watches feature a hinged cover to protect the clock face.

It is generally believed that pocket watches were first introduced in the 16th century. This was at the same time as the invention of the spring driven clock. In the beginning, pocket watches were cumbersome, boxy, and often worn as necklaces. It took another hundred years before these timepieces were carried in pockets.

Pocket watches were the most popular form of personal timekeeping devices prior to the 20th century. Wrist watches were considered feminine and generally not worn by males. However, it was soon discovered that there were benefits of wrist watches that made them superior, especially when time needed to be accessed quickly and easily, such as during war.

Pocket watches come in two basic forms: Open faced or hunter cased, or savonette. Hunter cased watches are the ones with the hinged covers, and are the most common. However there are instances where open faced watches are preferred, like in hospitals.

Pocket watches are generally considered prized items, and today you can still find pocket watches for sale. They are available in a variety of metals, gems, sizes, styles, and prices. A pocket watch can be a gift that's passed down from generation to generation, something regarded as a family heirloom.

Pocket watches come with different themes. There are pocket watches that are casual and fun, that feature favorite children's characters like Harry Potter. Then, on the other end of the spectrum, there are pocket watches crafted in only the finest metals like gold and platinum, adorned with gems and jewels, created for serious collectors or the fabulously wealthy.

When looking for pocket watches either for yourself or to give away as a gift, the Internet is a great resource to search for the desired items. There are online retailers that offer a variety of timepieces, or you can try an online auction site such as Ebay. Shopping on the Internet offers convenience and selection -- you get access to products you may not have in your locality.

A pocket watch that is at the same time, traditional, lasting, practical and beautiful, will make a great gift. The recipient will appreciate your good taste and attention to quality!

Copyright 2006 Ellery Coleman - All Rights Reserved

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