This watch

We have a truly remarkable find for the collector of unique and quirky vintage jewellery: a 1940s Ladies Pendant Watch, presented in genuine New Old Stock (NOS) and completely unused condition. This McDowells of Dublin timepiece is an absolute time capsule, appearing as if it was only just manufactured, preserving the delicate craftsmanship of the 1940s perfectly.

The design is brilliantly unusual. Rather than a traditional wristwatch, the watch head is designed to hang vertically from a chain (not included), turning it into a piece of decorative neckwear. The white dial is clean and clear, featuring a minimalist aesthetic with painted black indices and hands, framed by a smooth, mirror-polished gold-toned bezel.

Powering this whimsical piece is a reliable Swiss manual winding mechanical movement, which speaks to the high quality expected even from smaller brands and retailers of the era. The watch is signed 'Dowel' on the dial, a brand name retailed by high-quality jewellery outlets, such as the famous McDowells in Dublin, ensuring it was a sophisticated purchase when new. This piece offers both a fascinating historical narrative and an utterly unique style statement. Please note the generated image on a neck-chain is for inspiration - Chain not included

Extra Points

The 1940s saw a shift in ladies' watches away from strictly functional wartime designs towards more feminine and decorative forms. Pendant watches, though less common than wristwatches, were seen as luxury accessories, often sold by specialist jewellers and high-end fashion retailers under private labels like Dowel.

This practice was common among sophisticated retailers who sourced reliable, high-quality movements from established Swiss manufactures and cased them under their own name. This ensured the customer received a high-grade mechanical watch that stood out from the mainstream, making pieces like this Dowel particularly interesting today as they represent a slice of forgotten retail history and excellent Swiss quality.

What We Think

The absolute best thing about this watch is its quirky and untouched NOS condition. To find a delicate, high-quality 1940s pendant watch in this state is almost unheard of. It functions perfectly as both a highly collectable time capsule and a charming, ready-to-wear piece of vintage jewellery. The small, neat size and manual movement make it a true delight. It's an unusual piece that makes a fun talking point. Perfect For Christmas ! 

Spec Stuff