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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
1948 Rolex Vintage Mens Oyster Perpetual Bubbleback Watch, Ref. 5010
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
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

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
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
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

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