Vintage Watch Movement Cuff Links

Before quartz electronic and the Apple Watch, it was the mechanical watch movement that measured time for generations. Discover the fascinating synchrony of the gears, levers & jewels that once made them tick. Cuff links are crafted from authentic watch movements from the early to mid 20th century. Watch movements were manufactured in silver or a gold tone.

Sale price$190.00
In stock

Product Details

Watch movements were manufactured in silver or a gold tone. Please select your preference. All cuff links are set in sterling silver with swivel findings. While all movements originally had crowns (winders) many detached thru the decades. Tokens doesn't amend or alter the movement. If there is no longer a winder we simply set as is for a streamlined look. Please select your preference. Note watch parts are not functional and do not wind. Watch brands will vary. Each pair of cuff links comes gift-boxed with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Each pair measures approximately 7/8"

Authenticity

Tokens & Icons sources mostly non-functional watch movements of the mid to early 20th century from trusted sources.

Periodic cleaning with a silver cloth is recommended.

History of Watch Movements

In the 15th century, the spring became a favored mechanism employed by clockmakers but it was not until 1675 that spiral balance, or hairspring, was invented to keep the speed steady and the timepiece accurate. It was in the 1500s that pocket watches and clock-watches worn as decorative necklaces became popular among the elite. The dials of these early clocks usually did not have minute or second hands, only the hour hand.

In 1680-1700, craftsmen began including the minute hand. Soon after this, jewel bearings, iconic to watch movements now, were patented in England and became widely used as they provided greater accuracy. In 1868, Patek Philippe is thought to have created the first watch as decorative jewelry for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary.

The need for men's wrist watches and their increased accuracy became evident for military purpose in the late 19th century. Until then, watches were mainly for women and men mostly used pocket watches. By the end of World War I, almost all service men wore watches thus establishing them as a core male accessory. The watch pieces used in this item are from the early to mid 20th century mostly from women's watches.

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