How to start your pocket watch collection

Step 1. Gather information about pocket watch collecting

Collecting pocket watches requires a deep understanding on this timepiece. Information about pocket watches is available online and in books. The internet holds thousands of articles related to pocket watches and your local library should have a wide selection of books about clocks, watches and pocket watches.

Learn the history of pocket watches and its evolution through time and names like Waltham, Hamilton and Minerva will start to make sense. You will also be acquainted to terms like pocket watch grades, escapement, pocket watch movement, the number of jewels and dials. 

Step 2. Communicate with other pocket watch collectors

While books and articles are invaluable resources, the best information often times comes from insiders – the pocket watch collectors and enthusiasts.

Join online community boards dedicated to pocket watches. Online communities provide a chance to communicate with other pocket watch collectors. The wealth of information in online forums is enormous because they come from first-hand experiences.

Pocket watch exhibits also offer rare glimpse at the list of pocket watch models as well as give you the opportunity to be personally connected with pocket watch collectors, dealers and horologists.

Step 3. Pick the type of pocket watch you want to collect

After amassing all the information from different sources, you should now have a general idea of pocket watch collecting and the type of pocket watch you want to collect.

A fascination with railroad grade pocket watches may have grew in you or the intricate case engravings of some hunter pocket watches have more appeal to you. Whichever type of pocket watch collection you plan to make, nothing beats the joy of the first acquisition.

Step 4. Buy items for your pocket watch collection

Buying pocket watches can be tricky. It requires resources, a keen eye for details, a catalog and a price guide for pocket watches within reach. Having a loupe, a magnification device to make out small details, will be very useful during appraisals and transactions.

Scout for pocket watches and prices online; Ebay is a good place to start. There are several online shops and pocket watches classified ads devoted to modern and vintage. You can also visit local dealers..

Step 5. Display your pocket watch collection

As your collection grows, reliable storage will become essential. Housing pocket watches in display cases, stands or boxes will protect these intricate items from dust.

Display cases designed to hold up to 24 pocket watches are available. Glass pocket watch domes, which can accommodate one pocket watch, is a good choice for the special items in your collection.