Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a watch?
1 Answer

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
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Shop for Watches on 1stDibs
Louis Duchene & Cie. 18K Gold Enamel Pearl Diamond Set Lyre Form Watch, c.1810
Located in New York, NY
Rare Louis Duchene & Cie. 18K Gold polychrome enamel, pearl and diamond set lyre form keywound verge watch with concealed dial and open back window
Circa 1810
Musical instruments...
Category
Antique Early 19th Century European Neoclassical Pocket Watches
Materials
Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, Enamel
Antique Waltham Pocket Watch with Chain & Fob in Rose Gold and Heraldic Crest
Located in New York, NY
The antique Waltham pocket watch, paired with its chain and fob, is a remarkable example of late 19th-century American craftsmanship. Constructed in 14K rose gold, this timepiece com...
Category
Antique 1890s American Aesthetic Movement Pocket Watches
Materials
Rose Gold
Cartier Vintage Ladies Gold Vermeil Tank, 18K Gold over Silver
By Cartier
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold Plate, Vermeil
1947 Rolex Precision Vintage Mens Claw Lugs Square Dress Watch, 14K Rose Gold SS
By Rolex
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Rose Gold, Stainless Steel
1967 Tudor (Rolex) Prince Oysterdate Vintage Mens Ref. 7966 Watch - 18K Gold
By Tudor
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold
1966 Omega (Seamaster) Rare Cal. 560 Vintage Mens 10K Gold Filled & Stainless St
By Omega
Located in Suwanee, GA
NAMED ONE OF WATCHPRO MAGAZINE’S “HOT 100” - THE TOP 100 INFLUENCERS OF THE U.S. WATCH INDUSTRY. HOW CAN WE SERVE YOU?
We’re new to offering our carefully curated collection on 1stD...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Stainless Steel


