FHH | The Quirky Backstory of the Belt Watches

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15 April 2025

The quirky backstory of the belt watches

education

by @watches_and_culture

Watches have always been more than just timekeepers—they’re statements of style, ingenuity, and sometimes, pure secrecy.

In the 1920s and 30s, Cartier and Hermès, in collaboration with Tavannes, introduced some of the most unexpected designs in watchmaking: belt buckle watches. These hidden timepieces were created for men who needed a discreet and practical way to check the time without pulling out a pocket watch.

Golfers, horse riders, and stylish urbanites embraced this clever innovation, as the watch was safely tucked away in a belt buckle, protected from shocks and easy to read with a quick glance.

Some models featured a sliding or swiveling mechanism, revealing the dial only when needed—an elegant solution that was both functional and fashionable.

But this wasn’t the only time the world of watches took inspiration from belts. High watchmaking houses like Omega or Vacheron Constantin used the buckle motif as well, creating exquisite bracelet watches that mimicked the shape of a belt.

These pieces were often crafted entirely in gold and set with diamonds or other precious stones. These luxurious timepieces blurred the lines between jewelry and horology, transforming the simple concept of a buckle into a bold fashion statement.

Some even featured tiny secret dials hidden within the buckle itself, adding a touch of mystery and exclusivity. From practical innovations to dazzling jewelry creations, these unconventional designs prove that a watch can be elsewhere than on your wrist!