Knowing the time, has long been a desire of many people. The pocket watch is only one of a number of different instruments that will satisfy the need for telling the time. We are well past the time when the position of the sun alone gave us a clue, or that hourglasses needed to be turned on the hour and other such devices.

The pocket watch did not come about until after many other devices were invented. The main challenge for the early inventors was accuracy, and it could only be achieved with large moving parts and weights until coil springs were invented in the 16th century. These timepieces were also hand made, and only really available to the very rich. The ownership of any timepiece meant status, wealth and authority. The watches that were usually square in shape and able to be moved, were originally hung around the neck.

During the 17th century, slimmer and rounded shapes for these watches were designed. They fitted neatly into pockets of the waistcoat. Designers tried many different designs and shapes and the accuracy gradually improved. Some of the early pocket watches had alarms. The invention of the pendulum clocks also contributed to the body of knowledge needed to improve the pocket watch.

The 18th century saw a growth in technology with pocket watches and a greater acceptance (and affordability) amongst less wealthy folk. Lubrication systems were developed, better materials became available and decorations were added to produce a more accurate and more wanted product.

The 19th century saw the largest growth in pocket watch sales across the world. They were now being mass produced and some authorities (like US railway companies) made them compulsory for workers. The accuracy was getting better and better and reputable manufacturers provided a certificate (for accuracy) with each pocket watch. Mas production techniques did not seem to effect the reliability, according to some historians.

These good times for the pocket watch makers came to an end after WW1, when wristwatches started to become more and more popular. They were both cheaper and easier to read whilst working.

There is till a place for a pocket watch in many peoples hearts, be it for nostalgic or traditional reasons, or some people only the wish to look more distinctive. Modern pocket watches are made with quartz movements and are sold for the fraction of the price of the wind-up models of yesteryear.

Get into it and see how you feel!

Pocket watches and dress watches are a wonderful addition to the person with an interest in fashion. The modern movement pocket watches are not very expensive. For more information go to http://groovyideas.googlepages.com