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Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Why is it called a watch?

1 Answer
Why is it called a watch?
The portable timepiece worn on the wrist is called a watch due to its original purpose. Although they have become status symbols and fashion accessories, it is believed that early watches were the first tools used by town watchmen, who used them to track the start and end times of their shifts. Find a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Shop for Watches on 1stDibs
Cartier Ceinture Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Manual Winding Watch
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU CT-2502 Brand Cartier Model Ceinture ____________________________________ Date Circa 1980 Gender Unisex / Women Box only ____________________________________ Condition Case - Ex...
Category

Late 20th Century French Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Cartier Tank Solo 18K Yellow Gold Men's Watch W1018855 2742
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Tank Solo 18K Yellow Gold Men's Watch W1018855 2742 - Quartz movement. 18k yellow gold case with stainless steel back (27mm x 34mm). Silver colored dial with black Roman nume...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Fine & V Rare Tudor Rolex “Big Rose” Oyster-Prince c1962 35mm Automatic Watch
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
This Fine & Very Rare Tudor Rolex “Big Rose” Oyster-Prince c1962 Automatic Watch comes with original factory polish – great news for a collector! ~~~ Dating from 1962 (ye...
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 British Military Issued Watch
Located in London, GB
Watch: Seiko Generation 2 - 7T27-7A20 British Military Issued Watch Stock Number: CHW5375 Price: £695.00 This Seiko 2nd Generation British Military Iss...
Category

1990s Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Fine & Rare Rolex Royal Art-Deco c1939 S/Steel Manual 15 Jewels 30mm Mens' Watch
Located in MELBOURNE, AU
This fine & rare Art-Deco Rolex Royal S/Steel wristwatch, dating back to circa 1939, featuring: 30mm S/Steel Case, 35mm including the original signed s...
Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

18k Yellow Gold Ladies ROLEX Cellini Wristwatch
Located in Victoria, BC
Here is a beautiful 18k Yellow Gold Ladies ROLEX Cellini Wristwatch. This lovely watch is characterized by its elegant and classic design,...
Category

Vintage 1970s Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

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