Watch Cases
Watch cases are protective cases designed to contain and safeguard watches. These cases were used to store or transport watches while protecting them from damage.
During the nineteenth century watches were valuable personal instruments and were often kept in dedicated cases when not worn.
The Purpose of Watch Cases
The primary function of a watch case was to protect a watch from damage when it was not being worn. Watches were delicate mechanical instruments and required protection from dust, moisture and impact.
A watch case provided a secure container that allowed the watch to be stored safely during travel or storage.
Portable Watch Protection
Portable watch cases allowed travellers to carry their watches safely when moving between locations. These cases were designed to protect the watch during transport while keeping it accessible for use.
Construction of Watch Cases
Watch cases were typically constructed with rigid exteriors and soft interior linings designed to protect the watch. Materials such as leather, velvet or silk were often used to cushion the watch within the case.
The design ensured that the watch remained securely positioned within the case during movement.
Watches and Personal Equipment
During the nineteenth century personal equipment often included watches, grooming instruments and other personal accessories. Cases designed to protect these objects formed part of the wider tradition of fitted cases used in daily life and travel.
The Leuchars Tradition
The Leuchars firm became associated with the production of fitted cases designed to contain personal instruments and accessories. Watch cases formed part of the broader tradition of case making connected with dressing cases and travelling equipment.
Leuchars London ® continues the traditions associated with this historic craft.