A pocket watch conversion combines vintage charm with modern functionality, transforming historic timepieces into wearable wristwatches. While much focus is placed on movement mechanics and case design, the dial—a watch’s most visible feature—is equally crucial to the process. At Frett & Co Clockworks, dial restoration is a meticulous craft that balances gentle cleaning with preservation to ensuring the integrity and beauty of these pieces is maintained.

When converting pocket watches into wristwatches, one of the most important factors to consider is the size of the original movement. Pocket watches come in various sizes, and understanding these sizes is essential for determining the final case diameter of a conversion. Movement size directly correlates to the size of the case, so let’s break down the most common pocket watch sizes and the resulting diameters of the conversions.

When converting a vintage pocket watch into a wristwatch, one of the most common concerns is whether these century-old movements are robust enough for everyday wear. After all, most pocket watches were designed without modern shock protection or antimagnetic properties. You might expect them to be fragile, but in our experience at Frett & Co Clockworks, these vintage movements have stood the test of time.

When it comes to restoring or converting vintage pocket watches, there is a delicate balance between preserving history and infusing new life into timeless pieces. One technique that beautifully bridges the gap is thermal coloring, an age-old process that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of metal components but also provides protection against corrosion. For pocket watch conversions, thermal coloring adds a striking touch of color to previously uncolored metal, giving the watch a unique personality and enduring charm.

When it comes to pocket watches, the escapement is the heartbeat of the timepiece—precisely managing the release of energy to ensure accuracy and reliability. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the world of vintage pocket watch conversions, understanding the difference between single roller and double roller escapements can help you appreciate these watches even more. Double roller is frequently written on the movement plates of timepieces, which can help collectors better understand the type of escapement in their watch. So if you are uncertain about your timepiece’s escapement, examining the movement plate for this marking can offer valuable insights.

When it comes to converting pocket watches into wristwatches, collectors and enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. American watchmaking has a rich history, with several companies producing some of the finest timepieces ever made. But which company makes for the best conversion? The answer isn't straightforward, as each brand has its own unique characteristics that make it special. Let’s explore some of the most iconic American watch companies—Waltham, Hamilton, Elgin, Burlington, Rockford, Ball, and Illinois—and discover what makes their pocket watches ideal for conversion.

Pocket watches have long been cherished for their elegance and craftsmanship. Enthusiasts and collectors appreciate not only their aesthetic appeal but also the intricacies of their movements. One important aspect to understand about pocket watches is their configuration, which directly impacts their orientation when converted into a wristwatch. Here we explore the two main pocket watch configurations—open face and hunter—and examine how these configurations dictate the orientation of the resulting pocket watch conversion.

In a world where technology is advancing at lightning speed, there's a unique charm in owning something that embodies history and craftsmanship. Conversion watches, often referred to as "marriage watches," beautifully fuse the precision of American pocket watch movements with the elegance and practicality of modern wristwatch cases. These timepieces offer a multitude of benefits that appeal to both watch enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

At Frett and Co Clockworks, we specialize in transforming classic Elgin pocket watches into stylish pocket watch conversions, marrying the charm of vintage timepieces with modern functionality. Elgin watches, renowned for their craftsmanship and reliability, are the perfect candidates for pocket watch conversions, allowing enthusiasts to carry a piece of horological history on their wrists.