Have you ever wondered what it would be like to wear a pocket watch on your wrist? Or to transform your wristwatch into a pocket watch? Well, you’re not alone. There is a fascinating history and a growing trend of watches that can do both, combining the elegance of a pocket watch with the convenience of a wristwatch. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, the benefits and the challenges of this versatile design, and we’ll showcase some of the most amazing examples of 2 in 1 pocket watch and wrist watch design from different brands. Let’s dive in!

The Origins of the 2 in 1 Design

The idea of converting a pocket watch into a wristwatch is not new. In fact, it dates back to the early 20th century, when pocket watches were still the dominant form of timekeeping for men. However, with the advent of World War I, soldiers needed a more practical way to check the time without taking their hands off their weapons or exposing their pockets to enemy fire. The solution was to attach a strap or a bracelet to their pocket watches and wear them on their wrists. These were called trench watches or wristlets, and they were among the first mass-produced men’s wristwatches.

However, not everyone was ready to abandon their pocket watches, especially if they were expensive or sentimental heirlooms. Many owners decided to modify their pocket watches by welding lugs to the case and attaching a strap, creating a hybrid between a pocket watch and a wristwatch. Some manufacturers also offered conversion kits or services to adapt existing pocket watches to the new fashion.

An example of a pocket watch conversion with welded lugs

Some early wristwatches also maintained pocket watch design elements, such as hunter or double-hunter cases that could protect the dial and allow quick access to the movement. These were produced as dedicated wristwatches, but they still showed the influence of the centuries-old pocket watch tradition.

The Benefits and Challenges of the 2 in 1 Design

The idea of having a watch that can be worn both as a pocket watch and a wristwatch has several advantages. First of all, it offers versatility and flexibility, as you can choose how to wear your watch depending on your mood, outfit or occasion. You can also switch between different straps, chains or cords to customize your look.

Secondly, it adds an element of novelty and fun, as you can surprise your friends or colleagues with your unique watch that can change its appearance and function. You can also enjoy the different ways of interacting with your watch, such as opening a hunter case, pulling out a chain or flipping over a dial.

Thirdly, it pays homage to the history and heritage of watchmaking, as you can appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation that went into creating both pocket watches and wristwatches over the centuries. You can also feel connected to the generations of people who used these devices to measure time and mark important moments in their lives.

However, there are also some challenges and drawbacks that come with this design. One of them is size. Pocket watches are usually larger and heavier than wristwatches, which can make them uncomfortable or impractical to wear on the wrist. Conversely, wristwatches are usually smaller and thinner than pocket watches, which can make them less visible or legible when carried in a pocket.

Another challenge is durability. Pocket watches are more exposed to dust, moisture or shocks when worn on the wrist, which can damage their movements or cases. Wristwatches are more protected when carried in a pocket, but they can also suffer from scratches, dents or wear and tear.

A third challenge is style. Pocket watches and wristwatches have different aesthetic codes and conventions, which can make them clash or look out of place when worn in the opposite way. For example, a pocket watch with a classic or vintage design may look odd or outdated on a modern or casual wrist. A wristwatch with a sporty or minimalist design may look too simple or boring in a formal or elegant pocket.

The Best Examples of the 2 in 1 Design

Despite these challenges, there are some brands that have successfully created watches that can be worn both as pocket watches and wristwatches, combining functionality, beauty and originality. Here are some of the best examples of the 2 in 1 design that we have found:

Bovet

Bovet is a Swiss luxury watch brand that was founded in 1822 by Edouard Bovet, who specialized in making pocket watches for the Chinese market. Today, Bovet is known for its exquisite and complex timepieces that feature artistic dials, intricate movements and innovative mechanisms.

One of Bovet’s most remarkable creations is the Amadeo Fleurier collection, which consists of watches that can be converted into a wristwatch, a pocket watch, a pendant watch or a table clock. The secret behind this versatility is the patented Amadeo system, which allows the user to detach the case from the strap or chain and flip it over to reveal another dial. The case can also be attached to a stand to transform it into a clock.

The Amadeo Fleurier collection offers a wide range of models, from elegant dress watches to complicated tourbillons, all featuring exquisite craftsmanship and stunning details. One of the most impressive examples is the Virtuoso IX, which boasts a 10-day power reserve, a big date, a second time zone, a day/night indicator and a flying tourbillon. The watch has two dials, one with a blue guilloché motif and one with an aventurine sky map.

Bomberg

Bomberg is an independent and rebellious Swiss watch brand that was founded in 2012 by Rick De La Croix. Bomberg is known for its bold and unconventional designs that challenge the norms and expectations of the watch industry.

One of Bomberg’s most distinctive collections is the Bolt-68, which consists of watches that can be converted into pocket watches by using a bayonet system. The Bolt-68 watches have an oversized crown at 12 o’clock, which can be detached from the case along with the movement and attached to a chain or cord. The case can then be flipped over to reveal another dial or decoration.

The Bolt-68 collection offers various models, from sporty chronographs to limited editions with artistic motifs. One of the most striking examples is the Bolt-68 Racing, which features a black PVD case, a red dial with racing-inspired details and a quartz movement. The watch comes with a black leather strap and a red cord.

Chopard

Chopard is a Swiss luxury watch and jewellery brand that was founded in 1860 by Louis-Ulysse Chopard, who specialized in making precision pocket watches and chronometers. Today, Chopard is renowned for its high-end craftsmanship, its ethical sourcing and its involvement in cinema and motorsport.

One of Chopard’s most exceptional creations is the L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute, which was launched in 2010 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the brand and to honor its founder. The L.U.C Louis-Ulysse – The Tribute is a watch that can be converted into a pocket watch by using an ingenious system of lugs and pins. The watch has a white gold case, an enamel dial and a hand-wound movement.