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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Why is it called a watch?

1 Answer
Why is it called a watch?
The portable timepiece worn on the wrist is called a watch due to its original purpose. Although they have become status symbols and fashion accessories, it is believed that early watches were the first tools used by town watchmen, who used them to track the start and end times of their shifts. Find a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Shop for Watches on 1stDibs
Cartier Tank Francaise 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Watch 2385 W50002N2
Located in Dallas, TX
Cartier Tank Francaise 18k Yellow Gold Ladies Watch 2385 W50002N2 - Quartz. 18k yellow gold case (20mm x 25mm). Ivory colored dial with black Roman numerals. 18k yellow gold Cartier...
Category

2010s Swiss Wrist Watches

Patek Philippe Calatrava 18k Yellow Gold Men's Watch 5119-J (or 5119J-001)
Located in Dallas, TX
Patek Philippe Calatrava 18k Yellow Gold Men's Watch 5119-J (or 5119J-001) - Manual winding. 18k yellow gold case with hobnail bezel and exposition back (36mm diameter). White dial ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Wrist Watches

Rolex 126233 Datejust 36mm Two-Tone Yellow Gold Fluted Bezel Wimbledon Dial
Located in New York, NY
An item that has been used previously. The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully operational and functions as intended. This item may be a floor model or store ret...
Category

2010s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Breitling Stainless Steel Premier B25 Datora 42 Copper Dial Watch AB2510
Located in Baltimore, MD
Breitling Stainless Steel Premier B25 Datora 42 Copper Dial Watch AB2510 Metal: Stainless steel Reference: AB2510 Serial: 732**** Strap: Brown alligator leather Case: 42mm Features: ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Materials

Copper, Steel, Stainless Steel

2022 Rolex 278288RBR Midsize 31mm President Green Flower Dial 18K Gold BP
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: 278288RBR Serial: 2XU01*** Year: 2022 Model: Ladies President Midsize Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: 18K Yellow Gold Bezel: Original Factory Diamond Be...
Category

2010s Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Vintage 1960's
Located in London, GB
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Vintage 1960's Rare watch - Rose 14k gold plated case, buckle with steel back. Champagne, Rolex-signed dia...
Category

Vintage 1960s Unknown Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold Plate

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