Pocket watches are pieces highly coveted by many collectors. It is true that fewer and fewer watches of this type are seen, but it is precisely for this reason that watchmaking fans enjoy choosing exclusive pocket watches.
A pocket watch is a very particular, elegant and sophisticated decision, this week we review all the secrets of pocket watches.
What are pocket watches like?
Pocket watches are usually round watches, which instead of being attached to a strap, as is the case with wrist watches, have a hook to which a chain is attached. Pocket watches have a cover that protects the dial.
The way of giving the time is similar to that used by wristwatches, however, these pieces are kept in a pocket, usually in the vest or jacket, instead of being fixed on the wrist with a strap.
History of pocket watches
The history of pocket watches is much older than that of wrist watches, in fact, it is considered that the first useful pocket watches began to be manufactured in France in the mid-15th century.
The true inventor of the pocket watch was the German Peter Henlein, this locksmith invented in 1504 the first portable watch with a reserve of up to 40 hours before winding it again. The difference between the Henlein clock and the French clocks of the previous century was the spring or spring, the French pocket watches had invented a cylindrical spring, however Henlein developed a spiral spring, which is still being updated today.
The first pocket watches, and until well into the 17th century, were quite inaccurate, despite the fact that they already included all kinds of complications, some even with rudimentary calendars.
In the 18th century, pocket watches began to be mass-produced, since the technique facilitated the process, this also caused their price to be much cheaper, to the point that in many parts of the world pocket watches ceased to exist. be a luxury, to become a common object.
How does the mechanism of a pocket watch work?
The mechanism of a pocket watch is somewhat different from what is usually used in a wristwatch manufacture.
In this case, the rod escapement is doubled, it also incorporates a spindle that allows the movements of the spring to be uniform, and therefore the movement is homogeneous, without suffering jumps. Inside the cone is a small cord tied to the drum of the main spring, this cord gives force to the gears from the spring, until the cord is completely unloaded.
The essential pocket watch models today
In history there have been dozens of pocket watches that have marked history, from Churchill's gold Breguet to the Zenith that woke up Gandhi every morning, however, we are going to focus on models that are still for sale, and that you can add to your collection.
Altiplano Piaget pocket watch
Piaget presents us with one of the most curious pieces from its latest collections, a special 60th anniversary edition in a 50 mm, 18-carat white gold case with a sapphire-colored case back.
The movement of this watch allows to build an ultra-flat case, it is specifically the Piaget 1200 P automatic winding movement. It is a perfect piece for lovers of fine watchmaking, those who are looking for truly special pieces, as there are only 26 versions of this sapphire watch, all of them numbered.
IWC Schaffhausen Pocket Gold Savonette
IWC's Savonette collection was, for many decades, one of the world's most popular pocket watches.
It is true that their heyday occurred just when wristwatches began to prevail, in the 1930s and 1940s, but even so, the Savonettes continued to have great commercial success.
Original gold models are still available today, most of them yellow gold, with automatic movements in perfect condition.
Patek Philippe 99368 Remontoir
If we talk about classicism in watchmaking, a Patek Philippe model could not be missing. The pocket Remontoir has been one of the most mythical and precise pouch watches. Hand-wound and yellow gold, there are still models from the 19th century in perfect working order.
These watches are the best proof that a well-preserved luxury piece can be passed down from generation to generation.
Longines Chronograph Pocket
Made of 18-carat gold, this Longines has a precise chronograph that, at the time, was considered one of the most precise in the world.
Due to its design, this is one of the most coveted pocket Longines by collectors. Its chronographic movement makes this pocket watch very special, without a doubt, one of the best creations in the history of Longines.
Does it make sense to invest in pocket watches today?
Yes, today investing in pocket watches is still an excellent investment, especially when it comes to historical pieces.
Pocket watches keep mechanisms in some cases centuries old, many of them in perfect condition. In addition, beyond the investment, they are a perfect complement for the most distinguished occasions.
A pocket watch with a chain is, even today, a symbol of distinction and taste for haute horlogerie.
Luxury Pocket Watches at Watches5
If you are looking for Luxury Watches Manufacturer, at Watches5 have many style models at the best price.
Some of the main Swiss Watch Factory have their best parts in pocket watches. The mechanisms, broader than in the case of wristwatches, are more exact and have more complications, in Watches5 Luxury Watches Factory you will find unique pieces with factory price for your choose.
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