Pocket Watches

Pete Henlein was his name, a German inventor and master craftsman, and the success behind his invention comes from his creation of a mainspring- a thin metal wire coiled very tightly inside a capsule to store and slowly release power over time. This groundbreaking timekeeping device would soon become a rage all over Europe, and in no time at all, everyone in the world wanted to buy a pocket watch.

Over time, wristwatches became more popular. Certain events in the early 20th century made them attractive for purely utilitarian reasons.

In the process, many designers came up with absolutely gorgeous wristwatches that certainly have a very unique flair. However, there's something about the traditional pocket watch that attracts owners from a wide variety of backgrounds.

If you're interested in getting your own, then you'll certainly want to look over our collection of used ones. There are a few benefits that come with pre-owned models. First, though, you might want to have a look at a little history.

Used Pocket Watches For Sale

Interestingly, the first pocket watches were never carried around in the pockets of the wearer. They were hung as a pendant in an elegant chain around the neck. The early models of pocket watches were oval in shape and did not have a protective glass case. There was an attached brass lid that could be swiveled open to read the time. 

It was around 1675 that the pocket watch witnessed a transformation – it became round in shape and the size was small enough to fit snugly in a coat or tunic pocket. With royalty setting the trend (King Charles II of England was the trailblazer) pocket watches became a highly sought after accessory among the affluent and elite members of the community.

Think about how many pocket watches have been made over the years as a result. These were popular for so many decades that many styles came and went into fashion, which is no longer made.

If you want to add this kind of unique taste to your wardrobe, then you have no choice but to consider one that was made in a previous era. Give this some serious thought because it's an excellent opportunity for you.

Don't think of it as used, but rather think of this as a chance to buy a watch that comes with a story. You're buying a treasured antique that may have been carried by railroad executives, telegraphers and adventurers from a bygone era.

While new pocket watches are indeed beautiful as well, they can't come with this interesting background. Likewise, you can save a great deal of money going this route.

When people first get an opportunity to see your new watch, they'll have no idea that you actually got a really good deal on it!

That being said, you don't have to worry at all about quality.

Getting a Quality Vintage Pocket Watch

When our organization was founded back in 1980, we made a commitment to quality whether we were selling new merchandise or products that had a previous owner. In either case, we make sure to go over everything with a fine comb to make sure that each watch we sell is up to the highest standards.

We work with certified watchmakers who have experience working with all of the top luxury brands. That means buying a used pocket timepiece is very much like buying a new one here.

Considering the quality of the materials used in certain older pieces, some collectors have opined that it's a better choice. They prefer antique and vintage watches because of the materials in use at the time as well as the patterns that were popular when these pieces were originally made.

In the near future, some of today's models might very well be thought of in much the same way.

Buy Vintage Pocket Watches

Today, pocket watches serve as a relic of nostalgia, usually inherited from the generations of the past. Whether you are an avid collector, or simply want to appreciate a well-made pocket watch, Gray & Sons has got you covered. Our impressive collection features many well-known brands, in pristine condition. Buy a used pocket watch with confidence knowing that you are getting an authentic nugget of history. 

If you are not looking to buy, but rather looking for a pocket watch repair facility, we can help you out with that as well. With 6 master watchmakers and jewelers with over 150 years of combined experience on-premise, we assure nothing but top quality. That means we can help restore priceless family heirlooms and even museum-quality objets d'art. We also accommodate those looking to sell their pocket watch and offer some of the most competitive prices in the industry.

Contact us online today for more information about all of the various types of models that we have in stock. Since we're always restoring pieces on a regular basis, you never know just what you'll be able to find.