Pocket watches · Case
Conversion Watches
Partially verifiedPocket watch movements re-cased with wire lugs and a strap so they can be worn on the wrist, a common practice during the transition from pocket to wrist wear.
Mechanism
The movement itself is unchanged from its original pocket-watch form; only the case is adapted for wrist wear.
Typical characteristics
- Wire lugs soldered or fitted to a pocket-watch-style case
- Pocket-watch dial layout retained (seconds often at 6, crown often at 3 after rotation)
- Case diameter typically larger than a purpose-built early wristwatch
Identification characteristics
- Dial layout inconsistent with a purpose-built wristwatch (e.g. seconds not at 6 relative to a repositioned crown)
- Solder marks or replacement case backs where lugs were added
Collector significance
A key transitional category linking pocket watch and wristwatch history, and a caution against assuming all early wristwatches were purpose-built.
Known variations
- Factory conversion
- Aftermarket (trade) conversion
Photographs
Photographs are illustrative examples of the type, not necessarily the exact object described. Verify details against the source file page.
Sources & references
- General horological surveys on the pocket-to-wrist transition
Where sources disagree, the disagreement is stated rather than resolved silently.