Pocket Watches for Men: The Tradition and Background
Previous to pocket watches for men being manufactured, males and females historically adorned themselves with watches as pendants. In the 15th and 16th centuries these watches on average had to be wound a few times a day. Amazingly, the watch only utilized an hour hand, and the watch face itself was not overlaid with glass at all. Alternatively it traditionally possessed a brass cover that was fashionably ornamental, at times with open spaces so that the watch wearer would visualize the time without opening the watch cover. The timekeeping devices in these watches were very rudimentary and unreliable, making these early watches mostly used for jewelry pieces for the rich.
Pocket watches for men became popular in the 17th century, when King Charles II of England made waistcoats popular. A waistcoat is basically a buttoned vest with small pockets. The pocket watch was traditionally worn in the front waistcoat pocket. The chain on the watch was then placed in a buttonhole for stability. Pocket watches typically had a small rod at the end of the chain to keep the chain stationary even if the waistcoat was adjusted.
As you can see, pocket watches have a rich heritage, dating back hundreds of years. Surprisingly, pocket watches for men continue to be popular and well-liked. Although they may not have the total convenience of wristwatches, they represent a classic, sophisticated way to wear watches. Many men enjoy these watches for several reasons.
First, wristwatches for men have a few drawbacks. Sometimes the watchbands tend to pull arm and wrist hair, making them uncomfortable. Many people put a watch on their wrist, and find it hard to ignore its bulk or the material itself makes it hard for the brain to tune out. In other words, uncomfortable. Pocket watches don’t have that problem since they can be easily and comfortably placed in pockets.
Secondly, wearing pocket watches for men takes a person back to a different time. Even if you are a busy business professional, or have a hectic lifestyle, the simple act of pulling your suit jacket back and pulling out your pocket watch out tends to slow time down. This act of finding one’s watch can be a fun distraction during the day, instead of instantly having access to the time, it instead requires one to have an excuse to slow down and relax for a minute.
Lastly, pocket watches are stylish and fashionable. Pocket watches for men come in a stunning array of styles, and can appear very old fashioned with ornate engravings. They can also come in more modern styles, with sleek silver and minimum decorations and even using digital time keeping. Because of their amazing diversity, pocket watches are a great gift to give to the guy who seems to have everything.