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Skeleton Pocket Watches

Mauboussin Paris 1950 Mido Skeleton Round Watch pendant Stainless 18kt And Onyx
Mauboussin Paris 1950 Mido Skeleton Round Watch pendant Stainless 18kt And Onyx

Mauboussin Paris 1950 Mido Skeleton Round Watch pendant Stainless 18kt And Onyx

By Mauboussin

Located in Miami, FL

A round skeleton watch pendant designed by Mauboussin. Very nice retro piece, made in Paris France by the jewelry house of Mauboussin during the mid-century period, back in the 1950...

Category

Vintage 1950s French Retro Pocket Watches

Materials

Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold, Copper, Steel, Stainless Steel

Vacheron Constantin 4798 Skeleton Roman Bezel 18K Rose Gold Pocket Watch
Vacheron Constantin 4798 Skeleton Roman Bezel 18K Rose Gold Pocket Watch

Vacheron Constantin 4798 Skeleton Roman Bezel 18K Rose Gold Pocket Watch

By Vacheron Constantin

Located in Miami, FL

This rare vintage Vacheron Constantin pocket watch is crafted in 18K rose gold with a fully skeletonized case back and Roman numeral bezel.

Category

Vintage 1950s Retro Wrist Watches

Materials

Rose Gold

Audemars Piguet Royal 50th anniversary 2016,   41mm  with box and papers
Audemars Piguet Royal 50th anniversary 2016,   41mm  with box and papers

Audemars Piguet Royal 50th anniversary 2016, 41mm with box and papers

By Audemars Piguet

Located in Neguri, Vizcaya

It retained an ever-evolving technical focus and found new praise for its efforts, producing the world’s thinnest pocket-watch caliber in 1925, the first skeletonized pocket watch in...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 50th anniversary 41mm  with box and papers, 2022
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 50th anniversary 41mm  with box and papers, 2022

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 50th anniversary 41mm with box and papers, 2022

By Audemars Piguet

Located in Neguri, Vizcaya

It retained an ever-evolving technical focus and found new praise for its efforts, producing the world’s thinnest pocket-watch caliber in 1925, the first skeletonized pocket watch in...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Recent Sales

Areowatch Neuchatel Skeleton Pocket Watch
Areowatch Neuchatel Skeleton Pocket Watch

Areowatch Neuchatel Skeleton Pocket Watch

Located in Towson, MD

One estate yellow gold filled Areo Neuchatel skeleton pocket watch measuring 2 inches in diameter.

Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Pocket Watches

PAUL FLATO Skeleton Pocket Watch
PAUL FLATO Skeleton Pocket Watch

PAUL FLATO Skeleton Pocket Watch

By Paul Flato

Located in Chicago, IL

Retailed by Paul Flato this 1940s pocket watch is Chromium steel with See Through Plexi Glass front and back, manual wind 15 jewel Marvin watch company Movement.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Audemars Piguet Skeleton Pocket Watch
Audemars Piguet Skeleton Pocket Watch

Audemars Piguet Skeleton Pocket Watch

By Audemars Piguet

Located in Dallas, TX

Manual winding. Beautiful skeleton (44.5 mm). Roman numerals on the bezel. Pre-owned with box. Circa 1960-70's.

Category

20th Century Pocket Watches

Girard Perregaux. A Rare Gold Skeleton Diamond & Ruby Set Pocket Watch C1960S
Girard Perregaux. A Rare Gold Skeleton Diamond & Ruby Set Pocket Watch C1960S

Girard Perregaux. A Rare Gold Skeleton Diamond & Ruby Set Pocket Watch C1960S

By Girard Perregaux

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Girard Perregaux. A Rare Gold Skeleton Diamond & Ruby Set Keyless Lever Pocket Watch C1960s Dial: The dial is the glass which is signed Girard Perregaux, as this is a skeleton pocke...

Category

20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold

Estate Cartier Rock Crystal Pocket Watch with Skeleton Movement
Estate Cartier Rock Crystal Pocket Watch with Skeleton Movement

Estate Cartier Rock Crystal Pocket Watch with Skeleton Movement

By Cartier

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Gorgeous estate Cartier pocket watch made out of rock crystal with skeleton movement.

Category

20th Century French Pocket Watches

Materials

Rock Crystal

William Wood A Rare Masonic Skeleton Keywind Pocket Watch C1862
William Wood A Rare Masonic Skeleton Keywind Pocket Watch C1862

William Wood A Rare Masonic Skeleton Keywind Pocket Watch C1862

Located in Mayfair, London, London

William Wood. A Rare Masonic Skeleton Keywind Fusee Pocket Watch With Royal Provinance C1862 Dial: The silver chapter ring with black Roman numerals and outer minute ring with arabi...

Category

Antique 19th Century British Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

GUBELIN Yellow Gold, Diamond, Tourmaline Skeleton Pendant Watch
GUBELIN Yellow Gold, Diamond, Tourmaline Skeleton Pendant Watch

GUBELIN Yellow Gold, Diamond, Tourmaline Skeleton Pendant Watch

By Gubelin

Located in Dallas, TX

Manual winding. Yellow gold case, Art Deco style with exposition back. Bezel set with tourmalines on four sides, two baguette diamonds in each corner. Skeleton dial. Very unusual tim...

Category

20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Colibri 17 Jewel Swiss Incabloc Skeleton Pocket Watch
Colibri 17 Jewel Swiss Incabloc Skeleton Pocket Watch

Colibri 17 Jewel Swiss Incabloc Skeleton Pocket Watch

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Colibri 17 Jewel Swiss Incabloc Skeleton Pocket Watch excellent . This is a beautiful timepiece that keeps great time.Never used .

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Contemporary Pocket Watches

Juvenia Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch circa 1980s
Juvenia Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch circa 1980s

Juvenia Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch circa 1980s

By Juvenia

Located in New York, NY

Juvenia 18k yellow gold skeleton pocket watch, circa 1980s, 46mm, with enameled Arabic hours on the bezel, manual-wind 17-jewel movement, dark red enamel hour and minute hands.

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Wartime Era Hamilton Watch Co. Railroad Grade Steel Skeleton Pocket Watch
Wartime Era Hamilton Watch Co. Railroad Grade Steel Skeleton Pocket Watch

Wartime Era Hamilton Watch Co. Railroad Grade Steel Skeleton Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Interesting vintage timepiece and considered by many as one of the most reliable railroad grade pocket watches for the period. Circa 1942, this American made pocket watch by Hamilto...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Steel

American Waltham Watch Company Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back
American Waltham Watch Company Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

American Waltham Watch Company Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

In watch size is 12S ( approximately 1 3/4 inches) this brass skeleton pocket watch has a gold tone face with gold tone Arabic numerals and a working second hand dial.

Category

Early 20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Illinois Watch Company Display Back Pocket Watch
Illinois Watch Company Display Back Pocket Watch

Illinois Watch Company Display Back Pocket Watch

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

In watch size is 12S (approximately 1 3/4 inches) this antique brass skeleton pocket watch has a gold-tone face with black Arabic numerals and a working subsidiary second hand dial.

Category

Early 20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Antique Elgin Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back
Antique Elgin Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

Antique Elgin Men's Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

By Elgin

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

In watch size 12S ( approximately 1 3/4 inches), this brass skeleton pocket watch has a gold tone face, fancy black Arabic numerals with a working second hand dial.

Category

Early 20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Antique Elgin National Watch Company Display Back Brass Pocket Watch
Antique Elgin National Watch Company Display Back Brass Pocket Watch

Antique Elgin National Watch Company Display Back Brass Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Fancy silver-toned die struck dial with Arabic numerals and subsidiary second hand. Watch # 30630520. This fine skeleton pocket watch measures approximately 1-3/4 diameter, has been ...

Category

Vintage 1920s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Audemars Piquet Swiss Platinum Display Back Pocket Watch for Tiffany & Co
Audemars Piquet Swiss Platinum Display Back Pocket Watch for Tiffany & Co

Audemars Piquet Swiss Platinum Display Back Pocket Watch for Tiffany & Co

By Audemars Piguet

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

In watch size is 41mm (approximately 1 1/2 inches) this circa 1980 skeleton pocket watch has a platinum silver-toned face with gold Arabic numerals.

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Platinum

Patek Philippe Squelette Pocket Watch
Patek Philippe Squelette Pocket Watch

Patek Philippe Squelette Pocket Watch

By Patek Philippe

Located in New Orleans, LA

The perfect marriage of precision timekeeping and aesthetic appeal, this ref. 894 skeletonized pocket watch by Patek Philippe is in a class all its own.

Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Modern Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Rockford Watch Co. Railroad Style Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back
Rockford Watch Co. Railroad Style Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

Rockford Watch Co. Railroad Style Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

By Rockford Watch Company

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Enjoy this circa 1903 Rockford Railroad Style Pocket Watch with fancy engraved brass case. This fabulous size 16S American made piece is restored with a display back for a mesmerizin...

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Antique Tacy Watch Company Admiral Display Back Pocket Watch, Circa 1920
Antique Tacy Watch Company Admiral Display Back Pocket Watch, Circa 1920

Antique Tacy Watch Company Admiral Display Back Pocket Watch, Circa 1920

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Enjoy the view into the inner workings of this circa 1920 antique gold filled Tacy Watch Company Admiral pocket watch with skeleton display back.

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Model 917 Vintage Pocket Watch with Display Back circa 1939
Hamilton Model 917 Vintage Pocket Watch with Display Back circa 1939

Hamilton Model 917 Vintage Pocket Watch with Display Back circa 1939

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Observe the mechanics of this circa 1939 ten karat yellow gold filled Hamilton Model 917 Men's Pocket Watch with skeleton display back. In watch size 10S, measuring approximately 1-3...

Category

Vintage 1930s American Pocket Watches

Jaeger-LeCoultre Baguette Skeleton Clock "Pocket Watch" Ref 557
Jaeger-LeCoultre Baguette Skeleton Clock "Pocket Watch" Ref 557

Jaeger-LeCoultre Baguette Skeleton Clock "Pocket Watch" Ref 557

By Jaeger-LeCoultre

Located in Dallas, TX

Jaeger-LeCoultre Baguette Skeleton Clock " Pocket Watch" Ref 557 - Manual. Gilt -Steel ( 5 inches ) .

Category

20th Century Swiss Desk Accessories

Audemars Piguet 1930 Art Deco Watch Necklace In Platinum And 4.86 Ctw Diamonds
Audemars Piguet 1930 Art Deco Watch Necklace In Platinum And 4.86 Ctw Diamonds

Audemars Piguet 1930 Art Deco Watch Necklace In Platinum And 4.86 Ctw Diamonds

By Audemars Piguet

Located in Miami, FL

During the early-mid 1900s, the manufacturer continued to push for innovation within the watch community. The thinnest pocket watch caliber was released by the brand in 1925, while t...

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum

Patek Philippe Very Fine and Rare Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch Ref 894
Patek Philippe Very Fine and Rare Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch Ref 894

Patek Philippe Very Fine and Rare Yellow Gold Skeleton Pocket Watch Ref 894

By Patek Philippe

Located in Atlanta, GA

Exceptionally Fine and Very Rare, 18k Yellow Gold, Skeletonized Keyless Pocket Watch Brand: Patek Philippe Reference: 894 Case No: 937070 Case: 18k Gold, glazed on both sides,...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, 18k Gold

American Art Deco Chrome and Brass-Plated, Black Faced Skeleton Pocket Watch
American Art Deco Chrome and Brass-Plated, Black Faced Skeleton Pocket Watch

American Art Deco Chrome and Brass-Plated, Black Faced Skeleton Pocket Watch

Located in Port Hope, ON

This beautiful American skeleton/transparent pocket watch features a chrome bezel, with brass numerals in a strong sans-serif Egyptian font that stand on a brass ring.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco More Clocks

Materials

Brass, Chrome

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Vintage Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Floral Petal Clip-On Earrings, 20g
Vintage Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Floral Petal Clip-On Earrings, 20g

Vintage Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Floral Petal Clip-On Earrings, 20g

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

A Timeless Expression of Luxury and Heritage Elevate your jewelry collection with these exquisite Vintage Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Floral Petal Shaped Clip-On Earrings. Steeped in the...

Category

20th Century French Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Hermès Kelly Padded 25 Noir/Black Swift Gold Hardware
Hermès Kelly Padded 25 Noir/Black Swift Gold Hardware

Hermès Kelly Padded 25 Noir/Black Swift Gold Hardware

By Hermès

Located in Berlin, DE

Hermès Kelly Padded 25 in noir and swift leather with gold hardware. The bag is unworn and comes as full set including the original receipt. Stamp U (2022)

Category

2010s French Top Handle Bags

Gorgeous 18k White Gold, Emerald and Diamond Cuff Bracelet
Gorgeous 18k White Gold, Emerald and Diamond Cuff Bracelet

Gorgeous 18k White Gold, Emerald and Diamond Cuff Bracelet

Located in San Francisco, CA

For the art deco lover with bold style! This back-hinged 18k white gold cuff bracelet is designed with 'stripes' of pave-set round brilliant-cut diamonds, and black enamel, with an e...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cuff Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold

Hermes Birkin 25 Swift Leather Anemone Palladium Hardware Handbag
Hermes Birkin 25 Swift Leather Anemone Palladium Hardware Handbag

Hermes Birkin 25 Swift Leather Anemone Palladium Hardware Handbag

By Hermès

Located in Aventura, FL

This is an authentic HERMES Swift Birkin 25 in Anemone. This classic handbag is beautifully crafted of supple swift leather with a fine grain in purple. The bag features rolled leath...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Shoulder Bags

Patek Philippe Ultra Thin, 18Kt Solid Gold Dress Watch circa 1980's
Patek Philippe Ultra Thin, 18Kt Solid Gold Dress Watch circa 1980's

Patek Philippe Ultra Thin, 18Kt Solid Gold Dress Watch circa 1980's

By Patek Philippe

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Patek Philippe et Cie STYLE / REFERENCE: Dress Watch / Reference 3571-1 METAL / MATERIAL: 18Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1980's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 26mm X Width...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Chanel White Caviar Maxi Double Flap Bag
Chanel White Caviar Maxi Double Flap Bag

Chanel White Caviar Maxi Double Flap Bag

By Chanel

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Chanel excellent condition maxi flap in white caviar leather and silver tone hardware. Collection 15. Shoulder drop 11”/19” Comes with hologram and original box.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Shoulder Bags

Hermès Gris Misty Mini Kelly 20 Sellier Epsom Electrum Hardware
Hermès Gris Misty Mini Kelly 20 Sellier Epsom Electrum Hardware

Hermès Gris Misty Mini Kelly 20 Sellier Epsom Electrum Hardware

Located in New York, NY

Jewels Aficionado offers an The Hermès Gris Misty Mini Kelly 20 Sellier in Epsom leather that is a rare blend of soft elegance and modern edge. Finished with striking electrum hardwa...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Top Handle Bags

Cartier Art Deco Sterling Silver and Enamel Miniature Desk Timepiece circa 1920s

Cartier Art Deco Sterling Silver and Enamel Miniature Desk Timepiece circa 1920s

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

A beautiful miniature desk timepiece, rectangular case with blue enamel, accented by silver bands, centering a circular brushed silvered dial with gilt Arabic numerals, dial signed C...

Category

Early 20th Century Swiss Art Deco Desk Accessories

Materials

Sterling Silver

7.55 Carat Peach Tourmaline Emerald Cut Platinum Diamond Ring
7.55 Carat Peach Tourmaline Emerald Cut Platinum Diamond Ring

7.55 Carat Peach Tourmaline Emerald Cut Platinum Diamond Ring

By Merkaba

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

A 7.55 carat peach tourmaline emerald cut platinum diamond ring, handcrafted by Merkaba Jewelry Beverly Hills as a romantic collector jewel and meaningful alternative engagement ring...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Tourmaline, White Diamond, Emerald, Platinum

Rolex President Brown Dial Diamond 18K Day Date Watch Ref 18038
Rolex President Brown Dial Diamond 18K Day Date Watch Ref 18038

Rolex President Brown Dial Diamond 18K Day Date Watch Ref 18038

By Rolex

Located in Miami, FL

Handsome, hardly ever worn Gentlemen’s Rolex President Day Date watch, Ref 18038 dated late 1986.It is crafted in 18k yellow gold. Featuring All Original scratch resistant Sapphire C...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore White Ceramic 15707CB.OO.A010CA.01 Unworn
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore White Ceramic 15707CB.OO.A010CA.01 Unworn

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore White Ceramic 15707CB.OO.A010CA.01 Unworn

By Audemars Piguet

Located in New York, NY

Unleash the extraordinary with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore White Ceramic 15707CB.OO.A010CA.01. This unworn masterpiece combines avant-garde design and horological precisio...

Category

2010s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Hermès Portefeuille pochette 2010 Kelly Black Epsom Leather Wallet Clutch Hermes
Hermès Portefeuille pochette 2010 Kelly Black Epsom Leather Wallet Clutch Hermes

Hermès Portefeuille pochette 2010 Kelly Black Epsom Leather Wallet Clutch Hermes

By Hermès

Located in PARIS, FR

Hermès Kelly model wallet in black leather (Epsom) and silver metal (palladium), 2 large interior compartments separated by a zipped coin purse with pull tab in the Kelly padlock mot...

Category

2010s French Wallets

Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar & Black Leather Alzer Trunk 60
Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar & Black Leather Alzer Trunk 60

Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar & Black Leather Alzer Trunk 60

By Louis Vuitton

Located in New York, NY

Listing Title: Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar & Black Leather Alzer Trunk 60 SKU: 120961 MSRP: 11900.00 Condition: Pre-owned Handbag Condition: Very Good Condition Comments: Ve...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Luggage and Travel Bags

Emilio Jewelry Gia Certified Vivid Pink Marquise Diamond
Emilio Jewelry Gia Certified Vivid Pink Marquise Diamond

Emilio Jewelry Gia Certified Vivid Pink Marquise Diamond

By Emilio!

Located in New York, NY

From Emilio Jewelry, a well known and respected wholesaler/dealer located on New York’s iconic Fifth Avenue, Featuring one of the rarest shapes, combined with the rarest color satur...

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21st Century and Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Pink Diamond

GIA Certified 3.66 Carats Oval Cut Fancy Light Pink Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
GIA Certified 3.66 Carats Oval Cut Fancy Light Pink Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

GIA Certified 3.66 Carats Oval Cut Fancy Light Pink Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

By Roman Malakov

Located in New York, NY

A beautiful engagement ring, showcasing a vibrant 3.66 carats oval cut pink diamond certified by GIA as Fancy Light Pink color and Internally Flawless clarity, bezel-set in 18K rose ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pink Diamond, Rose Gold, Platinum, 18k Gold

1950s Cartier Vintage Gold Eight Day Desk Clock
1950s Cartier Vintage Gold Eight Day Desk Clock

1950s Cartier Vintage Gold Eight Day Desk Clock

H 2.15 in W 1.6 in D 1.15 in L 2.15 in

1950s Cartier Vintage Gold Eight Day Desk Clock

By Cartier

Located in Miami, FL

This aesthetically captivating authentic circa 1950 Cartier eight-day desk clock is made with a solid 14K yellow gold case. It is rendered in artfully textured gold, adding a glitter...

Category

Vintage 1950s Retro Desk Accessories

Materials

14k Gold, Gold

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Skeleton Pocket Watches For Sale on 1stDibs

Browse a vast assortment of skeleton pocket watches for sale on 1stDibs. These distinct designs — crafted with great care and often made from gold, brass and 18k gold — can elevate any look. Our collection of these items for sale includes 22 vintage editions and 1 modern creations to choose from as well. Our inventory is broad and distinctive, with accessories on offer that were made as long ago as the 19th Century to those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Our collection of skeleton pocket watches includes designs that are universally popular, but Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, specifically, are sought with frequency. There have been many well-made iterations of these items over the years, but those made by Audemars Piguet, American Waltham Watch Co. and Hamilton are often thought to be among the most beautiful. Many pieces in our collection are stylish for most occasions, but onyx versions, from our inventory of 2, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. There are many round cut, crisscut and mixed cut skeleton pocket watches for sale. Most of our skeleton pocket watches for sale are for men, but there are 8 pieces available to browse for women.

How Much are Skeleton Pocket Watches?

Prices for skeleton pocket watches start at $349 and top out at $250,000 with these watches, on average, selling for $3,048.

Finding the Right Watches for You

Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs.

While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind. 

Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory. 

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist

When shopping for a watch, it’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors. 

Find exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs that includes Cartier watches, Rolex watches, Patek Philippe watches and more — we promise it will be worth your time.

Questions About Skeleton Pocket Watches
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A pocket watch pocket is called by a number of names. You will sometimes see people refer to it simply as a watch pocket. Other names include a coin pocket or a fob pocket. Find a variety of antique pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023
    Yes, Omega did make a skeleton watch. In fact, the luxury watchmaker has unveiled a number of timepieces with skeleton dials over the years. Some models that include the feature are the Seamaster ref. 2932.80.00, the Speedmaster Moon Phase ref. 3688.30.32 and the Speedmaster Apollo XI 25th Anniversary Platinum ref. 3096.30. Shop a wide range of Omega watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The way to speed up your pocket watch depends on the specific model of timepiece that you have. To avoid damage, take it to a watch repair shop with experience repairing pocket watches to make adjustments. You'll find a selection of pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
    A hunter pocket watch is a pocket watch with a metal case that has a spring hinged lid to cover the watch face and protect it from damage.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    The most highly sought-after pocket watch will vary over time as trends in collecting do come and go. However, some pocket watches remain consistently popular among collectors. These timepieces include dress watches, such as those crafted by Elgin, Audemars Piguet and Patek Phillippe; railroad pocket watches produced by makers like Illinois and Hamilton; and military timepieces manufactured by Rolex and Omega. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
    The best pocket watch is a matter of preference. The earliest pocket watches were luxury items, and, owing to cost, they weren’t commonplace until the 19th century. Artfully crafted pocket watches were a symbol of wealth. Brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet are internationally renowned makers of pocket watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    How you store pocket watches is largely a matter of personal preference. Generally, you should keep them in a storage container designed specifically for stowing delicate items, such as a velvet-lined jewelry box, a watch box or on a watch stand. Shop a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A pocket watch fob refers to the chain or ribbon to which a pocket watch is attached. Its purpose was to make the watch more readily accessible to the wearer. You’ll find a variety of pocket watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    A fusee pocket watch — named for the French word fusée — is an antique type of watch with a crescent pulley and a curved groove around it that is wound with a cord or chain. The chain is attached to the mainspring barrel. Find a range of vintage fusee pocket watches on 1stDibs today.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, pocket watches peaked in popularity in the 1800s. The first pocket watch was created in Germany in 1510, but was originally too large for a pocket. In the 1600s, the design began to get more compact, but for a long time pocket watches were a rarity and a symbol of wealth. Shop an array of antique pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To identify a railroad pocket watch, first determine how you set and wind it. Most pocket watches have winding knobs, but railroad-grade timepieces were all made to be lever-set. To wind and set them, it's necessary to remove the bezel, so if your pocket watch has a winding knob, it's unlikely to be railroad-grade. There were also regulations concerning the numbers. All railroad-grade watches will have large black hour markers in Arabic, not Roman, numerals. Maker's markings may also provide a clue. Some well-known makers of railroad-grade pocket watches include Elgin, Hamilton, Waltham and E. Howard. For an expert opinion on your timepiece, have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate it. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of railroad pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The easiest way to identify your Elgin pocket watch is to enter the serial number into an authoritative online database. To find the serial number, open the timepiece and look at the inner movement. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Elgin pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To open an Illinois pocket watch, take it to a watch repair shop or a jeweler. Experts advise against attempting to open pocket watches on your own because doing so without the proper tools can damage the timepieces. On 1stDibs, find a range of Illinois pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To use a pocket watch chain, first attach one end to the fob of your watch. Then, tuck the watch into the watch pocket of your jacket. Thread the free end of the chain through your jacket buttonhole. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    A watch fob is the name for a pocket watch chain. It's utilized to make the pocket watch more accessible by providing a handle for the user to hold while taking it out of a vest or pant pocket. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of pocket watch chains.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, pocket watches can be a good investment. However, many factors can influence the value of a pocket watch, including the brand, the style and the mechanism that powers it. Also, how well you maintain and care for the watch impacts what it is worth. You'll find a collection of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Yes, pocket watches can be worth something. A pocket watch's value depends on its age, rarity, and brand. The watch's brand name is the main factor in determining price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    The answer to who makes Elgin pocket watches is a little complicated. In 1968, the Elgin National Watch Company closed and stopped producing its watches. However, the owners opted to license the Elgin name to other companies, allowing them to make their own watches that bear the brand’s name. The license changed hands a few times and, as of 2024, was the property of MZ Berger Inc. This company manufactures and sells Elgin pocket watches and wristwatches in China. These timepieces feature Japanese-made movements and bear little resemblance to the original pocket watches produced by Elgin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    Rockford pocket watches were made in Rockford, Illinois. The company opened in 1874 and produced pocket watches that quickly became known for their elaborate dials. In 1915, the Rockford Watch Company ceased operations due to financial problems. Shop an assortment of Rockford Watch Company pocket watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    What the most expensive pocket watch is will vary over time as luxury watchmakers release new models. In 2019, Patek Philippe set a record when a brand new Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 fetched an auction price of $31 million, making it the most expensive pocket watch ever sold. Before that, another Patek Philippe model, a 1932 Henry Graves Supercomplication, held the record. Explore a wide range of pocket watches on 1stDibs.