Recommendations for a quality pocket watch & chain

[macwilkin]

I know this isn't *exactly* TCHD per se, but since many gents choose to wear a pocket watch & chain on their waistcoats with a day jacket, I thought I would throw this question out to the rabble and see if there were any recommendations for a good quality watch and chain that are not too unaffordable.

Please let me say that I am not talking about the pocket-watches you can find at Wal-Mart, or the Russian tractor factory watches that are available through various and sundry surplus catalogs.

You may fire when ready, ladies and gents.

T.

[Nathan]

You can pay as much or as little as you want for the look. You can get a chinese made mechanical pocket watch for under $20.00 on ebay. You can get chrome quartz pocket watches at engraving stores/mall kiosks. These are usually about $80.

You can get a vintage one on ebay but it's a bit of a dice roll. The price will vary based on the materials (sterling or plate, diamonds or crystals etc...), the watchmaker and the vintage of the time piece. Even if the watch works when you get it, it's probably in need of servicing. Finding people to service pocket watches can be difficult and having the watch oiled and tuned can start at $300 plus any needed parts.

You can also try vintage shops.

Because of the chappist and steam punk movements, it's easy to find an inexpensive watch that is quite serviceable. These are asian made and won't be sterling silver but You can always buy a really nice chain and fob to go with a vintage looking, affordable piece.

Finally, you can buy them for about $150 in some Highland outfitters. These usually have Celtic themed, decorative cases but are likely quartz and of the same basic quality as the others mentioned.

[Tomak]

I guess you could classify me as a fan of pocket watches, as I currently own 8 of them. Mine come from a variety of sources, but you might take a look here: http://www.gentlemansemporium.com/store/watches.php
I have ordered quite of few items from them, and if you are not satisfied they have a very pain free return process.

[creagdhubh]

Wonderful topic of discussion, Todd! I too have pondered the idea of purchasing a pocket watch, especially for wear with Highland Dress, but have absolutely no clue on how, or where to begin. I look forward to all of the suggestions.

[creagdhubh]

I'm also rather keen on the various pocketwatch fobs and different styles of chains that can be incorporated into the overall aesthetic.

[JohntheBiker]

Nathan has done a good job of setting out the options.

I went the ebay route for both watch and chain (purchased separately). Both are sterling and Victorian - 19th century. The watch isn't running, but looks great. I wasn't fussed about having it in working order - this is jewelry, not time-keeping. If you want it in working order, it will cost you a lot more to purchase and maintain. If you want an antique, ebay beats antique shops hands down, but all of the ebay cautions apply! You need to do the research and have patience with bidding.

Haven't got a picture of the watch handy, but this is what the watch chain looks like:

[frank_a]

And here my current consideration is whether or not to go with a fly plaid...

I love this thread though. I used to carry a pocket watch years ago, and now ya got me thinking again (always dangerous...)

Frank

[creagdhubh]

Very smart, John. However, I'm quite confident that I would prefer my future pocketwatch to be in good working order. I'm not entirely sure where Todd stands on this, but I get the impression that he may feel the same.

[The Wizard of BC]

Is this the sort of thing you are looking for? (you can click on the images for a larger view)

DSC02224.jpg

These come with a wide variety of designs on the case. This one is a thistle but there are also Celtic knots and a lot more.

DSC02226.jpg

This one is a wind-up version. There is also a quartz version.
The wind-up version is a true skeleton watch. You can see all the way though.

DSC02225.jpg

While these are not sterling silver or heritage quality they do have swiss movements and work really well. I have carried one for about four years now and it keeps perfect time.

They are widely available. If you can't find one please feel free to contact me.
$62.50cdn plus shipping.

[Tomak]

Oh great, I think I just found number 9.