Antique Watches for Men

Pocket Watch

Pocket watches used to be much more popular than they are today and with the resurgence of interest in vintage watches they are making a come back. According to Wikipedia, a pocket watch is "a strapless personal timepiece that is carried in a pocket". These watches are analog as digital was not available until the latter part of the twentieth century.

Pocket watches date back as far as the 1500s but they were not commonly carried until the 1600s.

Wrist Watch

Wrist watches were once worn on by women and were called wristlets. At one time, the watch making community believed that wrist watches were far too small to be able to keep time accurately. It wasn't until the 1800s that soldiers found it more convenient to wear a wrist watch than to fumble with a pocket watch — this is when men began to wear wrist watches and they gained recognition.

Antique watches for men that are worn on the wrist will therefore be made during the 19th century. Wrist watches before that time will be more delicate pieces created for women.

Where to Buy Antique Watches for Men

Since the goal behind purchasing antique watches for men is to give that special man a unique look, it may be challenging to find the perfect model in a marketplace that has a limited selection. Antique watches for men can sometimes be found at estate sales, through local antique dealers and at auctions.

There are some dealers who specialize in finding vintage items. Here are a few:

• Jan's Jewells Vintage and Estate Watches: This dealer offers both pocket and wrist watches. Prices can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand, depending upon how hard the item is to find and demand. Orders can be placed via telephone or on the website and questions should be emailed.

• Heritage Watches: High quality antique watches and collectibles. Offers many unique watches, such as military issued styles. Site is updated regularly with new items. The site accepts credit cards, checks and bank transfers and PayPal.

• York Time: Used watches from the twentieth century. News on the main page lets visitors know about the latest watch additions to the site. Specializes in Rolex and Omega watches, but also offers many other vintage brands and styles as they become available. Also offers some great articles about estimating the value of a used watch.

• Antique Watch Parts Jewelry: Here is a unique thing to do with antique watches that are unrepairable. This site offers jewelry made from parts taken from old watches. The jewelry is suitable for men or women as it does not have an overly feminine appearance.

• Watches to Buy: Huge selection of vintage watches, including military watches, vintage chronograph, Rolex, Omega and antique watches under $300.00. They accept PayPal and ship to most areas in the world.

• Time Machine Watch: Offers many antique watches through an online auction. Also get information on watch repair. Specializes in railroad watches. Be sure to check out the article on how to set your railroad watch.

• Trebor's Vintage Watches: Specializing in restored antique watches and offers Omega, Longines, Rolex, Elgin and Waltham Vanguard. Quick and easy viewing of images, brand and pricing.

• Antique Vintage Watches: Offers watches from 1960s and earlier. They mainly carry Hamiltons and this brand can be scarce but they also offer brands such as Bulova and Rolex. Check out the new listings for the latest additions. Also offers articles on how to care for vintage wrist watches.

While you shouldn't rule out sites such as EBay, you will want to be careful about any items you purchase from an individual and make sure you ask enough questions to determine the authenticity of the piece. Happy vintage watch hunting!