How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (2024)

One of the most common questions we receive from customers is asking different ways to wear a pocket watch. Whilst features may have been added or designs may have tweaked slightly over the past century, the way to wear a pocket watch has remained the same for hundreds of years.

The classic way to wear a pocket watch is at the end of a chain (called a fob) in your waistcoat pocket. The fob should pass through the buttonholes in the middle and terminate in a pocket on the other side, anchored by another object such as a cigar cutter. However, there are other types of pocket watch chains available to allow you to safely attach your timepiece to your clothing.

Different Types of Pocket Watch Chains

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (1)

T-Bar Chains

The classic Albert T-Bar is best paired with a waistcoat or jacket. The buttonhole will hold the bar in place; allowing you to attach the pocket watch to the other end and store in the breast or side pocket.

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (2)

Belt Bar

You can probably guess where a belt loop attaches to thanks to its name - it simply slides onto the belt or the top of trousers to allow you to securely place your watch within your pocket for a classic look.

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (3)

Bolt Ring

Much the same as the classic belt loop, bolt ring chains attach to the trouser belt loop to store the watch in your pockets. However, they can also be attached to the buttonhole in your waistcoat.

How To Wear A Pocket Watch For a Wedding Or Formal Event

A wedding is one of the most common events that has men reaching for apocket watch. Pocket watches bring an instant touch of class to a formal ensemble, making them a great way to take your wedding look to the next level. Whether you’re the groom, a groomsman or simply a dapper guest, a pocket watch for a wedding guarantees to make an impression.

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (4)

How To Wear a Pocket Watch With a Waistcoat

One of the most classic ways to wear a pocket watch for a special occasion such as a wedding is attached to a waistcoat. This look is traditional and ever-stylish, making it a great choice for a formal look. This is also perfect for when you don’t want to wear a full three-piece suit, for example, if you’re attending a summer wedding.

To wear awedding pocket watchwith a waistcoat, you need one of the chains detailed above - a T-bar chain or a bolt ring chain works best. One end of this chain attaches to your pocket watch, and the other through your waistcoat buttonhole. The watch can then be placed into your waistcoat (or jacket) pocket, leaving the decorative chain on show.

How To Wear a Pocket Watch With a Suit

A pocket watch can also be paired with a suit rather than simply just a waistcoat and shirt. This look is slightly more formal, great for creating a powerful impression at work parties or high-class special events.

If your suit is not three-piece (i.e does not include a waistcoat), there are still a number of ways you can attach your pocket watch. A pocket watch chain can be attached through your suit jackets buttonhole, leaving the watch free to be slipped into your jacket pocket. Otherwise, a belt loop chain will allow you to attach your pocket watch to your trouser belt loop, with the watch safely stored in your trouser pocket.

How To Wear a Pocket Watch Casually

While many people assume pocket watches are only for formal wear, we are seeing more and more stylish gentlemen working them into a more casual look. A pocket watch is a great addition to a smart casual look, bringing an instant touch of class. So, how can you style a pocket watch informally?

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (5)

How To Wear a Pocket Watch Without a Waistcoat

Despite what many people think, you don’t always need a waistcoat or sharp suit jacket in order to work a pocket watch into your look. If you’re looking to work a pocket watch into a more casual look, we’re happy to tell you it’s more than possible!

A shirt is the easiest way to work a pocket watch into your look without a waistcoat. Why not try a sharp white shirt paired with slightly more relaxed chinos and loafers? Your pocket watch can be attached to either your shirt buttonhole or your belt loop, and then stored in your trouser pocket for a relaxed look that oozes class.

How To Wear a Pocket Watch With Jeans

We know, we know - jeans and a pocket watch aren’t a combination you would generally expect to work together. However, with the right styling, jeans and a pocket watch can actually make a fantastic impression.

We would recommend opting for black, grey or very dark blue jeans if you are wearing a pocket watch. Light or stonewashed jeans bring an ultra-casual feel, which slightly contrasts the pocket watch accessory. Similarly, we would recommend opting for a smarter slim or straight fit jean, rather than a loose or baggy option. Team your jeans with a shirt or blazer jacket to tie the look together, and there you have it - the perfect ‘smart casual’ combination!

To attach your pocket watch to your jeans, simply choose a belt loop pocket watch chain and then place the pocket watch in your jean pocket.

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs (2024)

FAQs

How To Wear A Pocket Watch | Chains & Fobs? ›

The classic way to wear a pocket watch is at the end of a chain (called a fob) in your waistcoat pocket. The fob should pass through the buttonholes in the middle and terminate in a pocket on the other side, anchored by another object such as a cigar cutter.

How should a man wear a pocket watch? ›

Choose the one directly above your pocket or something in the middle – around the 3rd buttonhole of your vest. The watch goes in the pocket on the side opposite of your dominant hand. If you're right-handed, place the pocket watch in your left pocket. This keeps your dominant hand free while you check the time.

What is the purpose of a pocket watch fob? ›

Watches were also mounted on a short leather strap or fob, when a long chain would have been cumbersome or likely to catch on things. This fob could also provide a protective flap over their face and crystal. Women's watches were normally of this form, with a watch fob that was more decorative than protective.

What is a fob watch called? ›

A pocket watch is used with a silver or gold chain and its length depends where it is worn. Either the waistcoat, lapel or belt loop. The chain or ornaments on it are known as a 'fob'.

Do you wear a chain out or in? ›

If the man is wearing a shirt with collar open, then the necklace or chain is worn inside the shirt. If the man is wearing a button down formal jacket with stiff collar, then the necklace is worn outside the collar.

How do you read a fob watch? ›

The fob is tough.

Nurses have always appreciated that reading the fob watch while on the run is as easy as glancing down. In case you're unfamiliar, the fob positions the face of the timepiece upside down, easily read when leaning forward by glancing towards your chest.

Can you wear a pocket watch without a vest? ›

There are two acceptable ways to wear your pocket watch without a vest: In your pants pocket or in your jacket or blazer front pocket. When you wear your pocket watch in your pants pocket, you can use a bolt ring, a belt slide or you can attach it to a watch fob and let it hang from your pocket.

How are men supposed to wear a watch? ›

You might have seen some men wear their watch on the left while others seem to prefer their right wrist when wearing their watch. So, on what wrist should you wear your watch and why? The men's watch should be worn on the wrist of the non-dominant hand and below the elbow.

Which way should a man wear his watch? ›

As a rule of thumb, most people wear a watch on their non-dominant hands. On the left hand for a right-handed person and right hand for lefties. The reason is simple, people don't want to mess up between the watch they wear and the things they do.

When did men wear watch fobs? ›

Fobs and seals decorated the waists of fashionable men during the early nineteenth century, continuing a trend that started in the late eighteenth century. Fobs were short straps, ribbons, tassels, or chains. A fob attached to a watch carried in the pocket of a waistcoat on the man's right side.

Does anyone still use a pocket watch? ›

The hospital is one of the best instances of a job where individuals still use pocket watches on a daily basis. Nurses use a unique style of pocket watch as a pendant in their attire. These watches, also known as Fob Watches, are worn upside down to allow the wearer to tell time without having to touch the timepiece.

How do you wear a pocket watch with jeans? ›

To wear a pocket watch with jeans or trousers, simply slide the watch in your front pocket and attach the chain to your belt or jeans with a belt slide. Or use a bolt ring and connect a shorter fob or chain to your belt loop. The chain can hang on the outside of the belt or loop from underneath the belt.

Is there a rule to wear watch? ›

Wear on Your Non-dominant Wrist

Most people wear watches on their left wrist because the majority of people are right-handed. This traditional rule means you'll be freer and more able to complete tasks with your dominant hand without your wristwatch getting in the way.

What not to do when wearing a watch? ›

Don't Wear A Watch That's Too Tight Or Too Loose. Okay, so there's no real reason to break or even bend this rule. Wearing a watch too loose isn't good for it – you're more likely to break the band and bang up the mechanisms. And wearing it too tight just hurts your wrist.

How many watches should a man own? ›

An average man needs at least three types of watches because not only does a watch tell time, but it is a valuable piece of accessories too. A man should have a dress, diving, and casual everyday watch. It is also good to have a tool watch for hobbyists, aside from the casual watch that is good for daily wear.

When were watch fobs popular? ›

Developed around the 1770s, alongside the invention of pocket watches, fobs were worn by both men and women, attached at the waist or to a belt originally. Their popularity continued throughout the 19th century but gradually became more associated with male attire.

How often do you wind a pocket watch? ›

To wind the watch turn the crown in the clockwise direction anywhere from 30-40 half turns until it stops. Push the crown back down into the normal operating position. Winding and setting of the time should be done daily. However, do not over wind, as this can damage the spring mechanism.

What does FOB in keyfob stand for? ›

The word “fob” was likely derived from the German fuppe, meaning “pocket.” Before key fobs were an electronic device, they were another word for decorative keychains throughout the 20th century.

Should you shower with your chain on? ›

All in all, you should remove your jewelry and timepieces before showering to prolong the life and luster of your investment. If you accidentally expose your jewelry to soaps and oils in the shower, quickly rinse it off with plain water and dry thoroughly yet gently with a soft cloth.

Is it OK to sleep with my chain on? ›

If You Never Want to Take Your Jewelry Off

If's that you, it's OK! Sleeping with your jewelry on certainly isn't the worst thing you can do. Jewelry can withstand normal wear and tear, and the chances of damaging it while you sleep are relatively minimal.

Why do guys wear gold chains? ›

Gold chains are not only a fashion accessory; they also represent men's social standing and prestige. Men who can afford these excellent jewelry pieces use them to show their social standing since they are often pricey. Additionally, it might demonstrate membership in a particular social group.

Do doctors wear FOB watches? ›

The NHS requires that all staff should be bare below the elbows. This is for infection control reasons, wrist watches could be a vectors for disease. Most staff wear fob watches instead.

Are you allowed to wear a watch as a nurse? ›

Thus, watches remain an important accessory for nurses at all levels and in all job environments. Fortunately, wearing a watch need not be a burden for nurses - it offers the perfect opportunity to dress up those scrubs!

Can my phone read my fob? ›

Since key fobs use RFID technology and not nfc it is not possible to copy a key fob to an iPhone or Android via an App. The only way to copy a key fob to your smart phone is to copy it to a sticker.

Are pocket watches practical? ›

If you're looking for a timeless accessory to wear to a formal event, look no further than the pocket watch. Whether you're wearing a three-piece suit or jeans and a blazer, the pocket watch is an elegant and practical way to complete your outfit.

Are pocket watches just for men? ›

Pocket watches can be worn in a variety of ways.

Men traditionally wear these kinds of watches on a chain to keep them securely in a pocket. However, it was once fashionable for women to thread pocket watches onto a chain which could be hung around the neck.

What color watches go with everything? ›

So we can say that a watch with a white or black dial is a safe choice for all occasions: they are (more or less) watches that go with everything. Of course, it's hard to go wrong when wearing something classic, such as black or white - it's a rule that also applies to clothing.

What does a watch show about a man? ›

Regardless of the style of watch, people who wear watches are seen as dependable and reliable. To others, seeing a watch on someone's wrist says that that person is punctual and values not only his or her time but other people's time. After all, time is money, friend.

Is it OK for a man to wear a watch on the right hand? ›

To get straight to the point: no, a watch does not have to be worn on the left wrist. The right wrist is just as good. The reason most people still have their watch on their left wrist is simple.

Which hand is dominant? ›

What is a dominant hand? Your dominant hand is the hand that you're more likely to use when you're doing fine motor tasks like writing, brushing your teeth, or catching a ball. When people say they are "right-handed," they imply that their right hand is dominant.

What arm do men wear watches? ›

You're probably familiar to the fact that the left wrist is the called and considered the ”officially correct” wrist to wear a watch on for men.

Why do guys wear watches on left arm? ›

The wearing of watch on the left wrist has practical advantages. Most people are right-handed and while working with the right hand (writing, etc.), the time in the watch on the left hand can be easily seen. Because of lesser movement of the left hand, damage to the watch is also minimised.

Do girls find watches attractive? ›

Women often do not recognize watches, but do feel attraction. If you expect a certain men's watch to have a magnetic attraction to women, we must unfortunately disappoint you. Many women will not easily recognize a watch brand.

Should a watch slide on your wrist? ›

Traditionally, a watch that is a perfect fit doesn't slide around on your wrist. The right watch should remain in place with the watch face on top of your wrist without sliding up and down your forearm.

Do modern men wear watches? ›

However, wearing a wristwatch is beyond just helping you know the time, and it is one of the essential details for every man's fashion. Men's wristwatches are always on the rise, with new features, technology, and attention to detail to suit every man's fashion sense.

Do male nurses wear FOB watches? ›

Rotary Nurses Fob Watch

This watch can also be worn by both male and female nurses as it styles a white and red design.

Why do pocket watches open on both sides? ›

They needed a way to protect the crystal from cracks and scratches while they were active during hunting trips, so they created a case that had a metal cover on top of the crystal. These cases will almost always have a hinge and pop open on the front and back.

What era did men wear pocket watches? ›

Pocket watches were first referred to in correspondence between craftsmen and members of the upper class in the fifteenth century, and it is believed that an early prototype of the pocket watch was worn in this era around the neck, rather than on a pocket watch chain, like an Albert T Bar chain.

Is a pocket watch classy? ›

Yes, they're arguably just as stylish and functional as wristwatches and come in all price points. If you're interested in adding a pocket watch to your collection, you'll likely find one that falls within your personal style and budget.

Why did men stop wearing pocket watches? ›

During WWI and the years surrounding it, wristwatches were used simply because they were easier and men began to see that it was better to have a watch on your wrist rather than in your pocket. You were less likely to drop or lose it and it was easier to check.

What is the oldest pocket watch that still works? ›

Nowadays, there are only two preserved pomander watches in the world. The one from 1505 is in private ownership, and the Pomander Watch of Melanchthon, from 1530, which is owned by the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore.

How do you wear a pocket watch with fob? ›

The classic way to wear a pocket watch is at the end of a chain (called a fob) in your waistcoat pocket. The fob should pass through the buttonholes in the middle and terminate in a pocket on the other side, anchored by another object such as a cigar cutter.

What is the purpose of the 5th pocket on jeans? ›

The earliest jeans only had four pockets, but the curious fifth one is even present on the oldest pair of jeans in the Levi's archive, dating to 1879. Also called a “fob pocket,” it offered convenience and protection for what could be considered the smartphone of its time: the pocket watch.

When did pocket watches go out of style? ›

The widespread use of pocket watches in a professional environment finally came to an end in approximately 1943.

Is a watch fob the same as a watch chain? ›

Nowadays, fob refers to the pocket that a watch slides into, the chain or ribbon attached to a pocket watch, or the actual watch hanging off the chain. For most pocket watch connoisseurs, watch fob refers to the chain or ribbon attached to a pocket watch and is usually shorter than a watch chain.

What does a FOB necklace mean? ›

A fob is either a chain or ribbon (and the ornamental piece joining it) that is attached to the pocket watch and the word fob dates back as far as 1888. Items such as key chains and garage door openers are also commonly known as fobs.

What is a watch chain fob? ›

watch fob, short ribbon or chain attached to a watch and hanging out of the pocket in which the watch is kept; the term can also refer to ornaments hung at the end of such a ribbon or chain.

Which way should watch clasp go? ›

So, which way does a watch strap go? An easy way to remember is that the buckle end of the watch strap always attaches to the top of the watch case you can identify the top as this will always be the 12 o'clock position on the dial.

Should bracelet and watch be on same hand or different? ›

If you want to wear your bracelet with your watch… wear it on the same wrist as your watch. Otherwise, wear it on the opposite arm. There are no rules – only preferences.

Why do people wear a key on a chain? ›

In Far East cultures, keys are regarded as a "Good Luck" presents and a bearer of a good fortune ahead. It was believed that wearing a Key as a Pendant will open physical, intellectual, or spiritual barriers and give access, or attract riches of all nature.

When were FOB chains popular? ›

Developed around the 1770s, alongside the invention of pocket watches, fobs were worn by both men and women, attached at the waist or to a belt originally. Their popularity continued throughout the 19th century but gradually became more associated with male attire.

Do you wear a watch over or under cuff? ›

If you can see the entire watch while your arm is straight, your clothing will fold up too much when you fold your arm, and this will not create a pleasant appearance. The second rule is that your watch should always stay under your sleeve. You should wear your watch under your clothing, not above.

Should a watch be in front or behind your wrist? ›

A watch is usually worn just above the ulna, or the wrist bone. Most people wear their watches with the face on the top of their wrist.

Where should a watch sit on your wrist? ›

Ideally, the entire watch should sit in the middle of the wrist with the top edge of the strap or bracelet also sitting on the top of the wrist. Bear in mind, there is not a single best case size or perfect lug-to-lug ratio.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rev. Porsche Oberbrunner

Last Updated:

Views: 6219

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (73 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rev. Porsche Oberbrunner

Birthday: 1994-06-25

Address: Suite 153 582 Lubowitz Walks, Port Alfredoborough, IN 72879-2838

Phone: +128413562823324

Job: IT Strategist

Hobby: Video gaming, Basketball, Web surfing, Book restoration, Jogging, Shooting, Fishing

Introduction: My name is Rev. Porsche Oberbrunner, I am a zany, graceful, talented, witty, determined, shiny, enchanting person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.