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
Baume & Mercier Montre Mecanique Or Malachite 1970s Yellow Gold Manual Watch
Located in PARIS, FR
Baume & Mercier watch circa 1970 in 18k yellow gold (750/1000), oval case, signed malachite dial, mechanical movement (manual winding), signed green leather strap, signed gold-tone m...
Category
Vintage 1970s French Wrist Watches
Materials
Yellow Gold
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
1960's Rolex Ladies Dress Watch with Bracelet - 14K White Gold & Diamonds
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 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
1966 Omega (Seamaster) Rare Cal. 560 Vintage Mens 10K Gold Filled & Stainless SS
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
Personally Owned & Worn By Ian McDonald with COA - Longines Heritage Military
By Longines
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
1944 Rolex Speedking Vintage Mens Midsize "Boys" WWII Oyster Watch - 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
Stainless Steel


