While it is true that the wrist watch was popularized by men, the first actual watch created to be worn on the wrist was made for a woman. In 1868, Patek Philippe created the first watch meant to be worn on the wrist. Watches of the time period were pocket watches. Women carried pocket watches, too. They were beautiful, but needed to be carried in a small purse, or pinned to the clothing.
In 1868, all that changed. A watch was created for the Countess Koscowicz of Hungary that was small enough to mount on a bracelet. The watch, along with other examples of the craftsmanship of Patek Philippe can be found HERE. Most men thought that a watch worn on the wrist was too small, and would not keep time well. However, the style persisted, and was made popular for men just before World War I. In 1904, Alberto Santos-Dumont, an aviator, asked the French watchmaker, Louis Cartier, to create a watch that would be more convenient to use while Santos-Dumont was flying. Cartier used the inspiration of the first wristwatch to create the Santos wristwatch. Made even more popular during World War I, the wristwatch has evolved into more than just jewelry for a woman. It has become a symbol of taste, elegance, and style.
So if the wristwatch was originally created for a woman, why does it seem that there are so many more watches for men? Some of the most beautiful watches ever created are created with a man’s wrist in mind. It is true that the larger cases on men’s watches give watch artisans more room to work in. However, that is no reason for watchmakers to ignore 50% of the World’s population!
Ladies watches do not have to be small and delicate. They can be bold, functional, and beautiful, all at the same time. Along with pens, I intend to talk about all kinds of watches. While some may be small and delicate, most will be bold and beautiful!