The Complete Guide to Pocket Watches in New Zealand: How to Choose Your First Fob Watch
TL;DR: Pocket watches in New Zealand range from affordable quartz models around $99 NZD to hand-crafted Swiss mechanical pieces above $2,000 NZD. The three main case styles are full hunter (fully enclosed), half hunter (small window in the lid), and open face (no lid). For first-time buyers, a quartz movement in a 45–50mm silver or gold full hunter case is the most popular and practical choice.
What Is a Pocket Watch?
A pocket watch is a timepiece designed to be carried in a pocket rather than worn on the wrist, typically attached to clothing via a chain or fob. Also called a fob watch, it features a hinged or open case housing either a quartz or mechanical movement. Pocket watches have been used since the 16th century and remain popular today as both functional timepieces and collectible gifts.
In New Zealand, pocket watches are popular as gifts for retirements, Father’s Day, and significant birthdays — as well as among watch enthusiasts and collectors. FOB & Co NZ carries over 165 pocket watches in styles ranging from entry-level brass and silver models to premium Swiss Made mechanical pieces.
Types of Pocket Watch Cases: Full Hunter, Half Hunter, and Open Face
The three main pocket watch case styles are the full hunter (fully enclosed with a hinged lid), the half hunter (hinged lid with a small central window to read the time without opening it), and the open face (no lid — dial permanently visible). Choosing between them comes down to how you’ll use and display the watch.
Full Hunter Pocket Watches
A full hunter has a solid hinged case that fully encloses and protects the dial. You press a crown button to spring the lid open and reveal the watch face. The lid often features intricate engraved patterns — floral, crest, or scroll designs — making full hunters particularly popular for gifts and display. FOB & Co NZ full hunter pocket watches start from $99 NZD for silver and brass models, up to $2,659+ NZD for 18ct solid gold Swiss Made pieces.
Half Hunter Pocket Watches
A half hunter has a hinged front lid with a small circular or shaped window cut into it, allowing you to read the time without opening the case. This combines the protection of a full hunter with the convenience of quick time-checking. The window typically reveals the hour markings at 12, 3, 6, and 9. Browse half hunter pocket watches in our NZ range — the Dark Metal Valentine Half Hunter and Intricate Bronze Half Hunter are popular picks from $99 NZD.
Open Face Pocket Watches
An open face pocket watch has no protective front lid — the dial is permanently exposed. This allows the fastest time-reading and is the preferred style for skeleton watches, where the entire mechanical movement is visible through the dial. Open face watches have a more classic, stripped-back look. Many of our skeleton pocket watches use an open-face design so the movement is visible at all times.
Quartz vs Mechanical Movements: Which Should You Choose?
Pocket watch movements fall into two categories: quartz (battery-powered, highly accurate, low maintenance) and mechanical (hand-wound or automatic, no battery, treasured by collectors). For everyday use and gifting, quartz is the practical choice. For collectors and watch enthusiasts, mechanical — especially Swiss Made — is the gold standard.
| Feature | Quartz | Mechanical |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±15 sec/month | ±1–2 min/day (varies) |
| Power | Battery (replace every 1–2 yrs) | Hand-winding or automatic |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Regular servicing recommended |
| Price range (NZD) | $99–$394 | $681–$15,920+ |
| Best for | Everyday use, gifting | Collectors, heirlooms |
Our Classique range includes Swiss Made mechanical pocket watches such as the Gents 51mm Gold Plated Swiss Made Mechanical Pocket Watch at $964 NZD, and Swiss quartz models like the Pocket Watch Swiss Quartz Roman Dial at $102 NZD. For a collector-grade piece, the Gents 59mm Sterling Silver Mechanical Skeleton Swiss Made Pocket Watch is priced at $2,063 NZD and represents the pinnacle of craftwork available in our NZ store.
Pocket Watch Sizing: What Size Is Right for You?
Pocket watch case diameter typically ranges from 38mm to 60mm. A 45–50mm case is the most common “standard” size for men’s pocket watches — substantial enough to read easily, slim enough to sit comfortably in a vest or jacket pocket. Smaller 38–42mm cases suit nurses watches and ladies’ styles. Larger 55–60mm watches are display or desktop pieces rather than everyday carry.
- 38–42mm: Ladies’ and nurses watches — slim profile, lighter weight
- 45–50mm: Standard men’s pocket watch — the most versatile size for everyday carry and gifting
- 51–55mm: Large format — statement pieces, often Swiss Made or Classique range
- 55–60mm: Desktop/display watches — skeleton movements visible from a distance
Most FOB & Co NZ entry-level pocket watches don’t specify exact mm in the name, but our Classique collection lists exact sizing: from 41mm quartz models up to 59mm Swiss Made skeleton watches. If carrying the watch is important, stick to 45–51mm. If it’s a desk display or collector’s piece, size up.
Pocket Watch Chains: Completing the Look
A pocket watch chain (also called a fob chain or Albert chain) is both functional and decorative — it attaches the watch to your clothing to prevent loss, and adds visual completeness to the look. Chains typically clip to a waistcoat button hole, belt loop, or jacket lapel. Matching the chain metal to your watch case creates a cohesive style.
FOB & Co NZ stocks pocket watch chains in five finishes — silver, gold, bronze, copper, and black — all priced at $14.99 NZD. For a premium option, the Rhodium Pocket Watch Chain is available in the Classique range at $29 NZD. When purchasing your first pocket watch, we recommend adding a matching chain to the order for the complete traditional look.
Gold, Silver, Brass or Black: Choosing Your Finish
Pocket watch case finishes broadly fall into four categories: gold-tone (warm, classic), silver-tone (cool, versatile), brass or bronze (antique aesthetic), and black or dark metal (modern, dramatic). The finish you choose should reflect both the wearer’s personal style and the occasions where the watch will be worn.
- Gold pocket watches: Timeless and formal. Best for gifting, significant occasions, and traditional dress wear. 55 models available from $99 NZD to 18ct solid gold at $18,278 NZD.
- Silver pocket watches: Versatile and contemporary. Works across casual and formal settings. 61 models from $99 NZD.
- Brass pocket watches: Warm, antique character. Popular with steampunk and vintage enthusiasts. 22 models from $99 NZD.
- Black pocket watches: Bold and modern. The Dark Metal Valentine Half Hunter is a standout piece for those after a striking, non-traditional look.
What to Look for When Buying Pocket Watches Online in New Zealand
When buying a pocket watch online in New Zealand, check five things: the movement type (quartz or mechanical), the case material and plating quality, the case size in millimetres, what’s included (chain, box, warranty), and whether the seller is NZ-based for straightforward returns. Buying local avoids import duties and customs delays common with overseas orders.
- Movement type: Quartz for accuracy and ease; mechanical for collector value and craftsmanship.
- Case material: Solid silver or gold plated are most common. For fine watches, look for Sterling Silver or 18ct Gold markings.
- Size: 45–50mm suits most men. Check if mm is listed; if not, contact the store.
- What’s included: Does it come with a chain? A presentation box? A gift bag? FOB & Co NZ watches include a chain option and watch boxes are available to add.
- NZ-based seller: FOB & Co NZ ships from New Zealand, meaning no surprise import duties and straightforward customer service for returns or exchanges.
- Warranty and servicing: Swiss Made mechanical watches should come with a manufacturer warranty. Our Classique collection includes warranty details in each product listing.
For most first-time buyers in New Zealand, a quartz full hunter in silver or gold at the $99–$102 NZD price point is the ideal starting point. It looks impressive, keeps accurate time, and requires no winding or specialist servicing. The Pocket Watch Swiss Quartz Roman Dial at $102 NZD is a particularly popular choice for gifting.
Pocket Watches as Gifts: Popular Occasions in New Zealand
Pocket watches make memorable gifts for retirements, 21st and milestone birthdays, Father’s Day, and graduations. A personalised engraving on the inside of a full hunter case lid adds a permanent, sentimental touch that wristwatches rarely offer. For corporate gifting, the Classique Swiss Made range provides impressive presentation quality at a range of price points.
Browse our curated selection: all pocket watches — over 165 watches available for delivery throughout New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pocket Watches in New Zealand
What is the difference between a full hunter and half hunter pocket watch?
A full hunter pocket watch has a solid hinged lid that fully covers and protects the dial — you press a button to spring it open. A half hunter has the same hinged lid but includes a small circular window so you can read the time without opening the case. Both styles are popular as gifts and collector’s pieces in New Zealand.
How much does a pocket watch cost in New Zealand?
Pocket watches in New Zealand range from approximately $99 NZD for entry-level quartz brass or silver models up to $18,278 NZD for 18ct solid gold Swiss Quartz pieces. A mid-range Swiss quartz pocket watch typically costs $299–$394 NZD, while Swiss Made mechanical watches start around $665 NZD and go up to $15,920 NZD for premium collector pieces.
What is a skeleton pocket watch?
A skeleton pocket watch has a cut-away or transparent dial and movement plates, allowing the mechanical workings — gears, springs, and balance wheel — to be seen while the watch runs. Skeleton watches are primarily open-face designs. FOB & Co NZ offers over 70 skeleton pocket watches from $99 NZD for decorative brass models to $1,833 NZD for Swiss Made gold-plated skeleton pieces.
Do pocket watches come with a chain?
Some pocket watches include a chain, but many are sold separately. FOB & Co NZ sells matching pocket watch chains from $14.99 NZD in silver, gold, bronze, copper, and black finishes. When gifting a pocket watch, adding a matching chain completes the traditional look. A premium Rhodium chain is also available for $29 NZD in the Classique range.
What size pocket watch should I buy?
For most men, a 45–50mm pocket watch is the ideal size — substantial enough to read the dial easily and carry comfortably in a vest or jacket pocket. The Classique range from FOB & Co NZ includes 49mm and 51mm options across mechanical and quartz movements. Ladies’ and nurses watches run smaller at 38–42mm for a lighter, slimmer profile.
Is FOB & Co based in New Zealand?
Yes — FOB & Co NZ (fobandco.co.nz) is a New Zealand-based retailer specialising in pocket watches, fob watches, nurses watches, pocket watch chains, and accessories. All orders ship from within New Zealand, which means no import duties or extended international shipping times. Customer service is handled locally.
References & Further Reading
- Pocket watch — Wikipedia: History and technical overview of pocket watch design and mechanics.
- How Pocket Watches Work — WatchTime: Detailed explainer on quartz and mechanical pocket watch movements.
- Pocket Watch Types — Antiquorum: Collector’s guide to full hunter, half hunter, and open-face case classifications.
- Buying Watches in New Zealand — Consumer NZ: General guidance on watch purchases, warranties, and NZ consumer rights.