Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates - even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.Įventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. Tragically, the first pocket watches - albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck - didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, new and classic vintage watches on 1stDibs. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own.

Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices.

Value of hampden pocket watch