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
Antique Swiss Silver & Guilloché Enamel Pendant/ Fob Watch, c.1890
Located in Portland, England
An exquisite antique Swiss guilloché enamel pendant/ fob watch with a ribbon brooch is dating to the late 19th century. The watch is made in a solid silver case (0.935 standard), bea...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Swiss Art Nouveau Pocket Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel
CARTIER LANIER Ladies 18K White Gold & Factory Diamond Watch
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
White Gold
Gucci Vintage Two-Tone Stainless Steel & Gold Unisex Watch, Model 9000 M, c.1990
By Gucci
Located in Portland, England
An elegant and iconic vintage Gucci unisex wristwatch, dating to the 1990s. The watch features a two-tone stainless steel and gold-tone case, paired with a matching articulated brace...
Category
20th Century Wrist Watches
Materials
Steel, Stainless Steel
1973 Omega De Ville Vintage Mens Automatic Watch with Chocolate Bronze Dial - 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 1970s Swiss Wrist Watches
Materials
Stainless Steel
