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
Related Questions
- What are rectangular watches called?1 Answer
- What is a fob watch called?1 Answer
- What is a pocket watch pocket called?1 Answer
- What is a pocket watch chain called?1 Answer
- What are pocket watch chains called?1 Answer
Shop for Watches on 1stDibs
1948 Rolex Vintage Mens Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback Watch, Ref. 5010
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
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
1910's Patek Philippe Vintage Ladies Watch with Stunning Period Case - Platinum
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 1910s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Platinum
Cartier Baignoire Joaillerie 1920 Ladies Midsize Watch - 18K Gold & Stainless St
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
2010s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
$11,245
Free Shipping
Owned & Worn by Harry Bellafonte with COA - Stührling Apocalypse 160 Chronograph
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
2010s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
1930s Benrus 14K White Gold Art Deco Diamond Skyscraper Wristwatch
By Benrus
Located in North Attleboro, MA
Elegant late Art Deco Benrus wristwatch crafted in solid 14K white gold with striking stepped diamond-set shoulders inspired by classic skyscraper architecture. Powered by a high-gra...
Category
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Materials
Diamond, White Gold
BREITLING "Harrison Ford" PLUTON Navitimer 2100 Multifunction Military Pilots
By Breitling
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
Late 20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel


