How to Display Your Pocket Watch:
Pocket watches are more than just timepieces; they’re pieces of history and art. Whether you’ve inherited a family heirloom or started collecting these classic timepieces, knowing how to display your pocket watch can make your collection timeless. Knowing just how to store & display your pocket watch is a skill almost forgotten. Let’s explore some timeless & practical ways to showcase your treasured timepieces.
Choosing the Right Display for Your Pocket Watch
Similar to the process one must go through while choosing a storage solution for wristwatches (boxes, rolls, or stands), a similar process is needed when selecting a display for your pocket watch.
For wristwatches, the typical questions one must ask are usually along the lines of “How many watches do I have?, do I plan to travel with my watches?, and to what degree of protection do I need for my watches?”
A similar theme can be seen when deciding how to display your pocket watch. Some of those factors could be the following:
1. Protection: Your display should be sturdy enough to hold your pocket watch comfortably. In addition, the display should shield the watch from dust while also minimizing the potential accidental damage. (This is still the MOST important aspect)
2. Visibility: The beauty of a pocket watch deserves to be showcased. Thus, an ideal display should highlight this beauty while allowing you and others the potential to admire its beauty.
3. Style: A common theme in all storage & display solutions, is the relationship your timepieces should share with their surrounding environment. The display case should amplify the beauty and aesthetics of the timepieces it surrounds. Choosing a display that complements your decor and the watch itself will amplify not only the watch but its surroundings as well.
Types of Pocket Watch Displays
Glass Dome Displays
Glass dome displays have a rich history, dating back to the Victorian era. Glass domes, also known as bell jars, gained popularity for displaying pocket watches in the mid-to-late 19th century. This coincided with the golden age of pocket watches when they were not only functional timepieces but also status symbols & works of art.
The Victorians had a penchant for collecting and displaying prized possessions, including pocket watches. Glass domes provided an elegant way to showcase these valuable timepieces while protecting them from dust and damage
Glass domes are a classic choice for displaying pocket watches. They offer excellent protection while allowing a 360-degree view of your timepiece. A common glass dome display is shown above. Usually, there is a hook attached to a wooden base which allows for the pocket watch to dangle while inside the glass.
Brands like Dueber Watch Co. offer various sizes and base materials, including oak and walnut, to suit different aesthetic appeals.
In addition to the first glass dome display, where the pocket watch is suspended on a hook, there is another type of glass dome display that combines the characteristics of a watch stand and a glass dome display. In this display, the pocket watch is pressed against the platform while the clasp is secured over the notch behind. Both displays have unique aesthetics which collectors find appealing. I personally, like the hybrid display a bit more in this case.
Pocket Watch Stands
Perhaps you are a collector who regularly takes your pocket watch out with you every day. If that is the case then perhaps a pocket watch stand is more suited for you.
The use of a stand over a glass dome display allows for ease of access to your timepiece. There is no need to remove a physical object around your pocket watch. In addition, due to the removal of any exterior object surrounding the watch, stands are perfect for those who want to show off the face of the pocket watch.
Pocket watch stands come in various materials and designs, from simple metal holders (as seen in the American Classic Railroad Pocket Watch from Hamilton) to elaborate wooden stands (shown in the Rapport London Walnut Pocket Watch Holder).
I find it amusing at times, that pocket watch stands may sometimes be mistaken for glass dome displays, which is understandable. In some cases, the only difference between a glass dome display and a stand is the physical presence of a glass dome. Other than that, it can be challenging at times to tell the difference.
Where to Display Your Pocket Watch
Where you place your pocket watch display can be just as important as the display itself. Here are some helpful suggestions one could consider:
1. Desk or Mantle: A traditional spot that keeps your watch visible and easy to access.
2. Bookshelf: Integrate your watch display among your books for an intellectual vibe.
3. Bedside Table: Keep your pocket watch close, especially if you use it daily.
Caring for Your Displayed Pocket Watch
Sometimes it can be easy to forget about your timepieces when they are inside of their cases. However, proper care ensures your timepieces remain in top condition. Thus while your pocket watch is on display ensure you do not forget the following:
1. Keep it wound: As advised by clockmakers, keeping your watch wound prevents it from seizing up over time
2. Clean regularly: Gently dust your watch and its display to maintain its shine. Dust can accumulate faster than you think. If it appears your watch or its display has traces of dust clean them as soon as possible.
3. Avoid direct sunlight: UV light is generally harsh to materials. This is also true for your watch and its display. Thus, ensure your watch and its display are not exposed to direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure can fade the watch face and damage the mechanism.
Where to Find Quality Displays
Throughout creating this post, I found it extremely difficult to find retailers specializing in pocket watch displays. Thus, I decided to make a small repository of retailers I found to be useful for pocket watch displays.
Fine Home Displays: Offers a variety of watch domes and ornament displays
Cas-Ker Co.: A long-standing company providing watch display domes and stands.
Pocket Watches: Sells a range of pocket watch stands and holders.
Rapport London: Sells a range of pocket watch stands and holders.
Making the Most of Your Display
To help the new and emerging collectors, we decided it would be helpful to know some words of advice on how to make a display pop. Thus, to truly showcase your pocket watch in its display, consider these tips:
• Use proper lighting to highlight your timepiece’s details. Lighting has the potential to add a dramatic edge to your display. Consider taking this into account if you need that slight dramatic effect.
• If the watch has a special history, tailor the environment to this history. This may be a little over the top or it could be exactly what is required.
• For those collectors who have multiple pocket watches but only wish to display a single piece at a time, consider a rotating schedule.
In Conclusion
Displaying your pocket watch is a wonderful way to appreciate its craftsmanship and history. Whether you choose a classic glass dome, a modern stand, or a creative DIY solution, the right display for a pocket watch can turn your timepiece into a stunning conversation piece.
Remember, the best display is one that not only protects your watch but also allows you to enjoy its beauty every day.
Happy Collecting!