Patek Philippe is credited with creating the first wristwatch in 1868.  Prior to that time people did make attempts to adapt watches so that they could be strapped to the wrist.  But Mr. Philippe really invented the first modern wristwatch.  When these watches  first appeared on the fashion scene they were called wristlets and were primarily thought of as an accessory for women.  However, the onset of World War I saw a change in that point of view.

Soldiers found that strapping a watch to the wrist was far more practical than trying to pull out a pocket watch during battle.  At first, soldiers would use a leather strap  to attach a watch to the wrist.  Then, in the early 1900′s, two methods were created that made it easier to attach watches to the wrist.  The expandable bracelet was flexible and made it easier to put on and take off wristwatches.  In addition, wire loops (lugs) started to be used in order to attach straps to the watches in a simpler manner.

Other improvements were also made during wartimes.  The first alarm wristwatch was made in 1914.  In 1925 the first watch containg a perpetual calendar was created by Patek Philippe. 

By the time the war ended the men’s wristwatch had become an acceptable adornment in everyday life.  After that there were a host of improvements made to the wristwatch.  In the 1930′s wathes became waterproof and shock resistant.  Later, in the early 1950′s we saw the introduction of battery powered wristwatches.  The 1960′s brought quartz watches to market and the 1970′s brought in digital timepieces. 

The next time you glance at your vintage wristwatch remember that the war made wristwatches popular and is ultimately responsible for the replacement of pocket watches for everyday use.

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