POCKET WATCHES Meaning and
Definition
-
Pocket watches are mechanical timepieces that are designed to be carried in a pocket or attached to a chain. Consisting of a case that houses a clock movement, pocket watches have a hinged cover that protects the delicate inner workings.
The history of pocket watches dates back to the 16th century, when they were initially devised as a portable alternative to the larger, more stationary table clocks. These early versions were primarily hand-crafted with various materials, including precious metals and glass, to showcase their aesthetic appeal.
Characterized by their unique charm and vintage appeal, pocket watches often feature intricate engravings on the case and a variety of dials, hands, and numerals, adding to their timeless elegance. Some pocket watches also display additional complications, such as a calendar or a separate dial for tracking seconds.
These timepieces are traditionally carried in a vest or jacket pocket, attached to a chain that secures them to a buttonhole or belt loop. The chain not only adds a decorative element but also prevents accidental drops or loss of the watch. Pocket watches are typically manually wound, requiring the owner to regularly wind a small knob, known as the crown, to keep the timekeeping mechanism functioning accurately.
While pocket watches have become less popular in recent years due to the rise of wristwatches, they continue to hold significance for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their vintage allure, craftsmanship, and historical value.
Common Misspellings for POCKET WATCHES
- pocketwatches
- oocket watches
- locket watches
- -ocket watches
- 0ocket watches
- picket watches
- pkcket watches
- plcket watches
- ppcket watches
- p0cket watches
- p9cket watches
- poxket watches
- povket watches
- pofket watches
- podket watches
- pocjet watches
- pocmet watches
- poclet watches
- pocoet watches
- pociet watches
Etymology of POCKET WATCHES
The word "pocket" in "pocket watches" refers to the small size and portability of these timepieces, as they were designed to be carried in one's pocket. The term "watch" dates back to the late 13th century, derived from the Old English word "woecce", which meant "watchman" or "guard". This term was used to describe timepieces that were carried or worn, which eventually evolved into the modern sense of a device used to tell time. Thus, the phrase "pocket watches" simply combines these two origins to describe timekeeping devices that are small enough to be carried in a pocket.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
